you know you're right; cheap is better!
consider this:
you buy your skis at sportchek. unless you're at a decent one, you've gotta go somewhere else to install your binders. if there is a warranty problem with the skis, sportchek is slow to get shit done for you while a real shop can have you back on the snow in a week (provided you don't ski armadas).
so yes cheaper is better but if you spend a bit more, you get less hassle and you deal with people that know exactly what they're talking about!
in conclusion, sportchek can lick my bag!