I think that the price tag is justified when you see the workmanship that goes into them. I had the opportunity to beta one of the Duo's and I must say, I was impressed. I am a hobby machinist and when I heard that these were produce on a glass lathe, I was shocked. It was though i was looking at a precision piece of machined glass. I think that once you see them in person, you will realize what's involved in producing these tanks. As far as a learning curve....I found them very easy to use....but you never know. Some people have trouble with new things.