Real talk...there is no way this system should cost more than a PS4 or Wii U. The specs for the machine don't make sense for the cost and you basically need LIVE for it to be complete. Then you have people saying bullshyt like the new Kintec cost as much to make as the Xbox One system. Get rid of the that dumb ass Kintec. Trash it already. Get competitive with the cost and start ramping up the system because if PS4 is more powerful and cheaper? Microsoft is in for a world of hurt.
The price will drop, but not at launch. They're not happy right now to lose those guaranteed headset and adapter sales either. That's the last bone (and money) they'll eat the costs on before launch.
I also don't think their plan is to outsell the PS4 worldwide, because that's just not happening. Locking down North America is obviously their main goal, but even that is in jeopardy right now. Similar to this gen....why pay more for shyt that will look the same for the vast majority of games (granted, they shouldn't but publishers will make it so). Big reason for the 360s success here was PS3 initial price. All of the advantages MS had last gen launching are essentially gone and their PR debacle hurt IMMENSELY.
It'll be 399 next holiday season for the Xbox One. Question is will Sony drop the PS4 price? If so, how much? Depends on how much their lead on MS is (which they will have, don't kid yourself).
I do also ultimately think they will make a kinectless version of the system, but that's not until maybe 2015 at the EARLIEST.