I know the answer for me is fairly simple "Money". I don't mind spending 2-3k on speakers that will last me a life time, but the last pre/pro amp I purchased lasted only 2 years because of new technology (no DTS ES etc..) I would rather spend around 1000 on an amp and upgrade every 2-3 years. When technology "slows" some and things like Fire Wire become the standard I will think about upgrading. Then again maybe in 2 years I will not have to worry about money!

Thanks,
Don