For me, it's worth paying more to know exactly who is standing behind the product, who I call with a question, and where I send equipment that needs servicing.
Great customer service is worth a lot to me. Headaches and unknowns are expensive IMO.
I've sent one sound system to Mass. Got it back looking like new with a 12 month warranty. 7 other units never an issue.
I've sent one mic to NJ for service 3 years ago, still working great. 4 other units never an issue.
I've called the company I got lights from a few times in Texas. They've been very helpful.
I'm pretty frugile, but I'm not going to buy china stuff to save money. My experience has been that it will end up costing me time and money later.
And yes, I know the stuff I buy is probabaly assembled in China. But it's designed, Qc'd and backed up by companies that I know and trust. Big difference.