$100-150 to run a sample through LC-MS via any one of dozens of small laboratory groups. Most are willing to explain things to a newcomer who is working his or her way through learning the ropes.
a) surprised that processes that seemed futuristic or industrial are available to the average person at a reasonable price
or
b) surprised that others are surprised
I operate a 4kW laser cutter set up to cut metal. Once new customers realise how much product the machine can put out in an hour they understand that it isn't an expensive service, and that it is in fact almost always cheaper to have an item laser cut rather than do it themselves using any of the tools they have in their workshop.
