[sriracha]

hand built

obviously, a major factor in a quality wheel is the components.
i also think another major factor is to take small methodical steps in tensioning, dishing and truing. i don't know if a machine does this or not, but i don't see why it can't. it's faster to make big moves however, in building a wheel. speed equals more profit. so, my guess is you get what you pay for. i personally build my own wheels and take my time. it's more fun than just buying a machine built wheel, even if it costs more. i'm pretty sure the end product is higher quality too.