I think there is something fascinating, and downright steampunky about pinballs that attracts a certain type. Like motorcycles, fewer and fewer people have gotten I to it- but there are those who remain.

Stern doesn't need to have mass market appeal- it is not the business model. If SMVE, for example, doesn't sell at the current peice- then they drop the price. However, I will bet you it does sell, with few sitting around to collect dust.

I couldn't tell you about the bubble bursting- but what I can tell you is that six months ago, Pinball was something I used to do- bit nothing I thought about. Then I made a new friend who invited me over to check out some pinball machines...

Now I help her them, I myself own two, and have made a host of new friends. I check out Pinside daily, of not on the hour refresh when things get deep.

Pinball appeals to my love of the mechanical, to the aesthetic appeal of the game, and the camaraderie of friends and family trying their luck.

I'm in my forties, have raised my kids and am having a ball.

I bought my first NIB as a Mat Premoum- I had to have a roadcase and I feel thrilled to own it. I do not feel the new SMVE warrants my same coin. It's cool, but it doesn't draw me... Yet.

Will the bubble burst? Is there really a bubble? Nah, Stern is just going through what Harley did in the late 80s. They held on by the skin of their teeth, kept alive the spirit of an American pastime and while we're accused of being crude and lacking innovation managed to deliver what the people wanted- and today? Still alive. People were upset that they went up in price, and some machines sold for more once they left the dealership- and most of those who complained about the market the loudest were the least likely to break off the cash in any case.

My second pin is a used one- and I am thrilled to have it. Fun to play, loaded with features, and more within the current budget. I love pinball- something for everyone.