Ohhhh, such an interesting dilemma. I happen to fall on the side of agreeing splunk should be able to ask whatever price he likes and let the price work itself out. The name of the discussion area isn't "For Sale/Trade at cost only."
I've seen a number of lisitings here drop down in price after no one bought the original asking price. The market worked itself out. Because those items didn't sell for the original asking price, does that make the seller was a bad person?
I love the fact that there are LCVG members here willing to help each other out and sell systems at cost. I would do the same. I can see the grey area for the debate, but considering this is a free and open forum, I just don't see anything wrong with listing here for what ever price one sees fit.