http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/..._legacy_xi.htm

I purchased this bike last year for $700. Comparing this to other steel and aluminum bikes, this was and still is a great deal for a nice riding road bike. I've got over 3500 miles on the bike so far, and minus a few flats, it's been nothing but flawless fun.

The bike has a sticker that states made in Taiwan, the same location where other steel bikes like Surly and Soma are built.

Here's a little excerpt from Soma:

Where does Soma produce its frames?
They are designed in San Francisco. They are hand welded in Taiwan. Please note most big bike makers have moved most of their production to mainland China, which does not yet match the quality of Taiwan. Because of continued investment over the decades, Taiwan probably has the most impressive infrastructure for bicycle and bicycle part manufacturing than any country.

Good luck on whatever you decide.