A lot of those prices are expensive - in my opinion.

I do some building of custom wheels, have been for shops on and off for about 8 years, and some for friends, myself, etc.

After a look at suppliers, I can do LX hubs on Velocity K525 rims (32h) or Mavic 230 rims (36h) for about $160 using Sapim Race butted spokes and brass nips.

Plus, I guarantee my wheels for trueness for life (not really helpful unless you are local) and against spoke breakage for 3 years.

Sorry for the shameless plug.