Its not much cheaper anywhere else either. The introductory period has ended, so the price went up. I called around to 4 places...all places i get good deals at, and all within 45-50 bucks of neve direct..sucks. oh well, im buying a different pre anyway.
1649.00 from Neve Direct.
It's usually the most expensive way to go. You'll usually pay MSRP from the manufacturer, it's so that they aren't undercutting the retailers.