Don't forget that import duties and other taxes are a big factor in the selling price of equipment in other countries. Exchange rates between currencies are also a complicating factor.

Of course, "imported goods" will have a certain cachet that appeals to a segment of any market. While we often like to pretend that audible performance is the only issue we think about when auditioning equipment, the vast majority of buyers are also influenced by appearance, brand name, features, exclusivity and so on. For some buyers, a high price by itself even adds to that sense of exclusivity.

Only the end consumer can determine if a particular product is worth the asking price. The fact that the brands you mention are still being imported to the UK would suggest that at least some buyers are finding them attractive at those selling prices.