Dan, no harm done in your questioning the latest price.
Glad you asked though - Apples to Apples, the unit is cheaper (or was, based on a larger volume, new price ~may~ be different now, as I type this). The SHIPPING from China and dock fees, etc. have gone up TREMENDOUSLY!!! THAT is where the overall "additional" $50 is going!
FedEX ground (cheapest way to ship for Cliff) is actually $45 and change AT MOST. So, a $50 fee is not unreasonable for all Cliff HAS done, IS doing and WILL CONTINUE to do... I am in Illinois. Will it NOT cost Cliff $50 to send out my package. I will gladly pay the $50 to receive the package though, in appreciation for his hassles and time and labor to make this all happen for us.
For those from the first group buy - IF YOU CAN HELP in reducing the costs on this group buy, of which you have no investment, PLEASE help Cliff with contacting the shipper or even the company used last time and see if you too can make an impact on reducing the price of this group buy. What's in it for you? Nada - Zip - NOTHING! Well, except maybe a little appreciation from those who are involved in this group buy.
If my "tone" sounds harsh, it is not meant that way. Just calling out the facts. I deal in facts every day with my regular career, and bluntness (or is it diplomacy? I get them confused ALOT) happens!
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Thanks Dee for Steve's "permission slip". Steve - you want in?
My thanks to all for making this happen.
John