it would cost me double as id have to give my wife the same amount to do as she wishes

So good to hear im not the only one that has to do that!  

I do think the love has left the room (for now) but i also think the crest of the Stern wave is about to peak. Don't get me wrong i have a Bally, a Williams and just sold a Stern to get a NIB Stern.

They are all good IMO, and to ignore one brand over another because of age is crazy IMO.

Great thread, very timely at the moment.