Again, I have to agree with you.
It is worth looking into.
I am European and moved to the US 2 years ago. Before my move I sold all my gear, (sniff), mainly for the voltage issue.
I had a GEM SX2, a Roland D50, Roland U110 and have used it in several amature bands.
Since I have some exp. in Europe I can asure you that the price difference is mostly because of the exhange rate. I checked some old magazines to confirm that.

Currently I am getting ready to start playing again. I am planning on buying an EM-2000 to start and go form there