you're comparing identical items. Apples to apples so to speak (sorry.) I agree whole-heartedly. You should shop around if you're looking for components. I do and you probably do as well.

However, the hardware is only a part of the picture. As I mentioned in an earlier post, with Apple it's all about the operating system and how much better it works. More reliably. More intuitively. Heck, you can even buy THAT at Amazon.

Simply put, I bought my Apple products because they work better. If somebody offered the EXACT same product for less I would happily buy it from them and not Apple. If Apple's price is too high and not worth it (or I can't afford it) I won't buy. If I wanted a brand new Swan, could afford it and it was worth it to ME, I might buy one. Since I can't, I don't despise them for their product (which might have the same head, thru-hulls, rigging, etc. as many other boats) or assume that the people who buy them are mindless idiots who bought the hype and haven't given the decision any further thought.

I can't speak for Jon, DDW, Ronald or some of the others here who use Apple products but I'm not brainwashed by Apple and didn't drink any kool-aid. I just happen to like their products and feel that they're worth the money. It's that simple. If you don't agree, fine.