I can relate to that one. At one time I was playing with a 3,500 Joss East. Then I realized that a 300.00 Joss Sneaky Pete was a smarter choice.I was just as good, and dindn't stress when I nicked it. I'ts not the equipment in most hobbies, or sports that requires Talent. A few come to mind, golf, tennis, billiards, skateboarding, biking... I could go on. I do think though that there is quality and excellence to be had in getting higher end equipent. Things that don't require talent to own, but we get caught up in getten better things... Cars (to some degree), HT, furniture, nice houses ect. It all comes down to priorities. Some poeple want to justify expensive purchases, or have the best of everything. I suppose that's what having a hobby is all about....progressing. Hopefully I can stay off the McIntosh and B&W websites for a while. My simple system is just fine. For now
