thanks very useful - i have often thought of visiting this area and will have a look into it as this is the kind of info i was lacking. it looks like a beautiful area.
I checked out this page it is very honest and as far as I remember most accurate.
However, my expertise is on the Slovak side of the peaks but most of the info is the same on each side though the Slovak side is becoming more expensive as more western tourists show up.
very funny homepage. really like it.
and yes, you are right. people spend too much money on equipment instead of spending it for climbing trips...
by the way, if someone is looking for cheaper stuff, there are some very good brands from czech republic, like tupilak or ocun. just check them out.