I had bought the SC1227 for that price. it was initially selling for $1500 some 3 years ago when it first came out. You won't believe the profit magins that they run on those units. I think it's part what the big box marks up and what the OEM will give as a discount.

Anthem: AVM60, Fosi DAC-Q5
Axiom: ADA1500, LFR1100 Actiive, QS8, EP500, M3, M3comp, M5