From reading the forum, prices have risen over the years, partially due to inflation (cost of underlying raw materials/labour etc), partially supply/demand and partially the fact that reps are getting better/closer to their genuine counterpart.
It depends on the model, and am not saying that the most expensive one is always better/the best option, but what I can be sure of is that the experts on here have scrutinised all to the smallest of detail and there will be heaps of threads on each model.
But at the end of the day, buy what you like & can afford.
Enjoy exploring the forum.