These seem a bit pricey $$$

The Swiss have never (there must be exceptions) offered value for money. It's intrinsic to their culture. HDF is pricier but unless they're using the very best Teflon capacitors, wiring, Vishays etc. then the value is certainly unexceptional. The drivers are somewhat on the ordinary side too. No novel egineering. I don't think they care. They've developed a business model with likely a small group of dealers that allows a profit.  It's likely gravy on top of European sales.  It looks a touch cynical to most of us, but they've factored that in & can likely make money w/o bothering with as many pesky Americans, as they would otherwise.