I don't work for SpeechEasy so I can't answer exactly. But, here's what I know. A SE device is basically a hearing aid, just calibrated for time and frequency alterations instead of volume. And hearing aids are about that much. SpeechEasy devices range from $2500-$4500 depending on the model. Hearing aids might start a bit lower, but can go much higher on the most high-tech end. So, the answer is: it's basically right in line with what the technology costs. It's an expensive technology. And given the very small niche market, mass production to lower costs is not an option. Also, there is almost *always* a promotion going on where they discount devices at least a few hundred dollars. Every year around the holidays, it can be as much as $750 off. They're a very small, modest company. A total of 9 people who all work out of the same one-room office in North Carolina. They are definitely not out to make bank. It's expensive because of what it is, not inflated prices, that's for sure.