I've just picked up the Elan version of this binding (identical except colour) from my local Vancouver Elan dealer for $399.  Not cheap by any means, but not $550.  Dawcatching.com has the Head version for US $299.

A feature not mentioned in the review is the "tooless" adjustable length feature.  The binding can accommodate +/- 30mm different boot sizes from the boot used to fit the binding.  This is a great feature if you have, say, Alpine and AT boots of different sizes.

The heal lock down mechanism can be improved considerably.  The four screws that hold/guide the metal plate are just ordinary screws.  This creasts friction and wear in the sliding plate itself.  Would have been better to use screws with a nylon collar to reduce wear/friction.

I think they have done a pretty good job considering this is their first AT binding, if you look way back at the first Fritschis they have come a long way and so I am looking forward to seeing what Tyrolia does next for their 2.0 version. Hopefully they work for you Joestrummer.

I'm an 80/20 kind a guy:  80% fun; 20% work.  These bindings are the same.  80% front side; 20% side country.

I agree, given their weight they are more of a free-ride AT bindings and you hit the percentages bang on.

Enjoy 'em.