Obviously it's easy to say without knowing how frustrating poor quality parts would feel, but I'd take the quality reduction alongside a price reduction, I think. My 4yo loves sets like 31052 (3-in-1 camper), but the next step up in challenging, brand-neutral sets are around AU$400 which is hefty.
Of course, chances are they'll reduce their production costs but maintain the high prices.
I would like to challenge him with the creator expert set of modular buildings. 10246, 10255, etc. But 10255 is US$399 for example.
He already has 31052 and 31051 which I think are excellent 3-in-1 sets. Would love to see more like those. They are about AU$80-120 which is a workable birthday/xmas pricepoint.
Of course, chances are they'll reduce their production costs but maintain the high prices.