I can chime in here. I'm the GM at Keeley Electronics so I have some insight on the subject. Everything is relative to what you're interested in and while I agree, some price points can defy your sensibilities in the pedal world, the same phenomenon exists with most gear...not a hot take, I know. The same element that makes an expensive pedal worth it to some is one in the same with expensive amps. We (guitar players) go nuts and pay ridiculous money for boutique amps that are basically a Marshall, Vox, Fender, etc circuit. Of course, that's an oversimplification and there are a lot of builders that have something to offer but it's not far off. And it's kind of the point I suppose. There's not much out there that hasn't been done in terms of completely original circuits and it's a Brand's job to provide a unique perspective or combination of utility/technology that can give players something they feel is worth the price of admission.
Chase Bliss is very self aware. They know their pedals are pricey and acknowledge that they aren't for everyone. They've recently announced that they are going to exclusively market their products direct to consumer on their site and skip the dealer so even their business model is unconventional. It's bold to be certain and I personally salute them and respect what they do even though I'm not entirely interested in the utility of products they manufacture or even their newly discovered approach to doing business. It's a crazy and kind of awesome time to be alive as a musician.
We have soooo many options and appealing to the cork sniffing community is just one way to go. Feel free to roast me=) I might pose a different question...what really expensive pedal does anyone think IS worth the money?
