[nicbou]

Is it maybe just the result of aging?

My hobbies and interests are more established. I know which tools I use a lot, how I use them, and where spending more makes a difference. I've owned and outgrown my entry level gear.

That, and I have more disposable income. I can afford long term investments because they don't incur short term deprivation.

On the other hand, when trying something new, I still go with the cheaper option until I can appreciate what a better tool would do. In most cases, I find that the cheap tool is enough.