I don't think they are scared, they are smart. Made millions on the mps.... Now, for another year while the gyre is tested they lower their price point to convince people to still buy the mps...... And within a year I bet they come out with a competitive product.
Savy company IMO. At $299, I'd still buy the mp40 over the gyre unless my tank design required the gyre "flow pattern".
That is a very smart move for them, it basically put MP40 at the same price point of Gyre. At the same time, MP40 is a far superior pump than Gyre minus the noise issue.