IO540, I agree with you on the TP.
I've always wondered about this. These new jets are claiming cruise speeds in the 300 knot range, short take off and good climb. But wouldn't you get the same thing from a turboprop, and at less fuel flow? I seem to recall jets not being terribly efficient at low speed, ie below 350 knots or so, compared to TPs which really shine at those speeds and lower altitudes ~25000 ft.
It all seems like hype to me. And I can't understand how these companies can build jets for 1 million dollars when there isn't a comparable TP anywhere close? What's the deal? Is it the prop that costs 500 kUSD extra?