They should be looking into ways to reduce the cost of their device, not increase it. I don't care if the luxury version (only version?) comes in a teak box with swarovski crystals on the stylus since I don't find value in things that don't add to the day to day functionality. If they added a $10 wifi component and charged me $50, then it wouldn't be so repulsive. I wouldn't mind spending $50 on an accidental protection plan, similar to the nook's, and that at least shows some token of company backing behind their product. Might as well package it into a $1000 Louis Vuitton hand bag so my wife can enjoy the luxury-added value.
Since irex is competing in the leisure reading space that contains the Kindle 2 and the Nook, it seems strange for irex to price their device more towards the professional range of the Kindle DX. Granted, irex's professional offering, the DR1000S, is close to $900 and makes the DR800 look like a bargain, they need purchases to stay relevant (and in business). Their venture capital money is not free money.
If you check out the irex shop site, you can probably tell how much 'better' the stylus can be.
https://www.irexshop.com/index.php?cPath=1_31
Basically, the thicker, the more costlier. Sure, the most expensive one has an eraser, but that is not supported by any of their current products and I'm uneasy with doing much rubbing on the delicate screen.
I'm guessing someone at BestBuy is looking at their store display plan and thinking:
* Sony Pocket Edition: $199
* Sony Touch Edition: $299
* Sony Daily Edition: $399 (my guess)
* Irex DR800SG: $399
"Hmm, lets bump the DR800SG to $450 to avoid any unnecessary consumer and employee training to explain the similar pricing and go with 'cost more' = 'better'."