"So, this kit doesn't come with the Alice frame or straps and the majority of the parts are plastic? Hmmmm Also no lights or sounds? How is this kit worth even $600?"
Actually, for $ 600, it's a bargain. Manufacturers have to do the R&D, make the molds, marketing, logistics, employee cost as well a ton of other overhead and then pay the dreaded licensing fees. The ONLY way to bring the cost down is low profit and mass manufacturing, which in a limited edition item like this is difficult to do. I am shocked it's this low to tell the truth.
What do you get for that $ 600? the licensing and an accurate piece that is hopefully quality made. That again is a bargain given this type of prop.
I have made 7 proton packs myself. $ 600 for a fiberglass pack, just the pack is about right and nothing else.
Not including the proton wand. The extra parts that make it authentic, metal pieces and electronics will drive up your cost minimally another couple hundred, lights and sound the best you can do is now about $ 850, yourself.
For Anovos to do so with their overhead cost and licensing fees, outstanding. Most of those prop guys saying they can make a pack cheap would sell a similar product for a minimum of $ 1,500 and probably much much more. Good packs can sell over $ 2500.
And you have GotMaul working on this, a long long time GBfan member who has in the past made the best fiberglass shells for the GB community and put that experience and knowledge into this product. THAT in itself is quite the bargain.