i got the soundlink mini 2 for my recent trip. little heavy to lug around in a backpack for 4 months to also find bad internet or google play unsupported, but works fantastic.
bro bought a $30 amazon one just a bit before i got back. we did a back to back comparison and his went back the next day. you pay for it, but these are impressive little guys.
Yeah ours is just the regular soundlink. I agree it is pricey, but after hearing other bluetooth speakers, Im glad we have it. Would buy another soundlink before a cheaper one.