Hi MikeQ, greetings from the author of that review.
First, I must say the monitor tested was the M2929DC-62, original Wei-Ya brand, you know. I know bilLABS is Wei-Ya's american branch, and that model they were showing on their website had the exact same specs as the M2929DC-62. So I supposed that monitor was a rebranded M2929DC-62 with cosmetic changes.
But I already stated in the review that there could be differences between both models.
Maybe bilLABS originally thought in offering the top model, but then decided to introduce the 38 KHz one to clear out some taiwanese stock
and for a direct match against the D9200/Betson Imperial (Kortek KT-2914) but with a flat screen. They will end up offering the 50 KHz model for sure, albeit possibly at a higher price point, though.
When I was dealing with Wei-Ya HQ to get my monitor, I was told the M2929DC-62 was a truly new model and they had not started production in heavy quantities yet. Limited supply at this moment may be the reason bilLABS isn't going to offer the 50 KHz display for the time being.
bilLABS' staff told you they were surprised due to the high interest for a low to high resolution capable monitor? They don't have a clue on what they are talking about. You can tell them why in the hell that device was designed and built first. Because if there's no demand for something then something will soon get extinct or just won't exist. Flexible devices are exactly what the MAME community looks for, and the M2929DC-62 excels in flexibility and quality. I find way more logical to think how surprising it would be if people were not interested, instead.
$450 at Alva? Great price. If the 38 KHz bilLABS unit carries a $475 pricetag, expect to pay at least 500 bucks for the 50 KHz model from them.
I ended up paying a lot more. A grand total of $745,55 to be more precise. Monitor ($280) + shipping ($330) + wire transfer fee ($21,70) + customs tax ($113,85). But hell, it is worth it!
Cheers