Prices have dropped considerably Prices have dropped considerably since the first embroidery software systems in the early 80s. I recall them being around the 50K mark. Now, the same 'level' of software, of course with massive more functionality, is around the 12K mark I guess.... Is that too much? I agree, yes it is for many people. But then I think for the companies out there who use these software to make money, as in a business, should not be using pirate software that they paid $500 for and start making a profit from within 1 month. Around the corner is "Joe Blob's Embroidery" running from his Californian backyard shed who did the right thing, paid the money, but is loosing work to this other guy who only paid $500 for his software therefore can afford to charge less for his service. This I am sure is where the industry is truly hurting. So, the general consensus here is yes, software is too expensive, yes we want to be able to make embroidery, but no we don't want to pay so much for it. Maybe we should start shouting to the Wilcom's and Pulse' of the world that we want a smaller, cheaper, still functionally good embroidery software? But then, would we still head down to the mall and pick up the software for $150 or will we download that for free? Some of us, well most I hope, would. But then some of us wont. As Nanna and Hanna's Mom so rightfully pointed out, we can't always stop everyone. Dave P.S. I dont want to put a bee under anyones bonnet. I think this is an interesting topic, and maybe we should start shouting back to the industry heavy weights....    ¶ Friday, April 29, 2005