It really depends on the local market.

If you got the numbers and infrastructure to support "the big names" then go for it - but if you aint then choose someone else.

Its a pecking order out there and its regulated by demand. It does get out of hand if people start being unreasonably greedy. If prices are unreasonable in relation to demand then you will see prices come down over time. (me thinks this is happening now).

Don't forget that some DJs/Acts will push up their prices to make them appear to be higher up the order - when they really are kidding themselves. There is really only a handful of DJs/Acts that are truley able to demand such figures - they are the ones who have immense respect and history (Hawtin etc) OR are more like pop-stars (Tiesto etc).

Here in Australia you HAVE TO price on relation to the gig and sometimes play free just to keep public presence.