You could easily replace 'bleaker' with 'realistic', if it makes you feel less sorry for me!

It is, 99% of the time, the correct outcome.

Generally, especially at this time of the year, wild, unrealistic scuttlebutt gets all the press. Then 'reality' sets in. Same ol', same ol'.

If you live your life always expecting 'something great' to come out by the arranger manufacturers, either, like Gary, you need very low expectations, or you live in a constant state of disappointment.

Personally, my life is VERY happy, because I am not expecting it to suddenly become wonderful... it already IS! I live in Paradise (although a little chilly the last few days!), play music for a living (done so all my life). I don't need the tenuous promise of new gear to feel great. Quite happy with what I have...