That's why I hang on the the HP4 which cost me $1,300.00 back in the day. I just got a 8600 plus and it was cheap enough when my 7000 series crapped out. I can tell you it's a great unit but like you I hate planned obsolesce and this is why I preach future proofing as much as you can in this crazy world of electronic otherwise you get wrapped up in this trade out/upgrade thing ever other year or more.