Are the real high priced graphite shafts actually better then shafts with more of a mid price point?

Tom Wishon sums this question up best: "The complete and total performance of ANY shaft is controlled purely by its weight, overall flex design, bend profile design, torsional stiffness and its weight distribution. (weight + flex + bend profile + torque + balance point). PERIOD The lighter the weight and the lower the torque, the more expensive a shaft will be. This is because the materials required to bring the weight of a shaft below 60 grams are more expensive. And, wrapping layers to form the shaft so the fiber orientation keeps the torque low takes more time, which costs more money in the production of the shaft. But in no way should a shaft ever have to retail for $150, $300 or more. It is eminently possible to create shafts which retail for $50 that will perform IDENTICALLY to shafts that retail for $100 and higher. Yes, there are raw materials which are used in some of these high dollar shafts which really are very expensive. Are they so much more expensive that they require ...  more