The more I think about it...

The more I am hoping I get one of those early invites... Or the announcement that it is released!
 
I still think it is a very gutsy move on Cakewalk's part, but I'm growing increasingly optimistic that they can make this work.
 
My only remaining question is whether or not to pay the whole fee up front, or spend a little more to spread it out over the year. And for this pass I think I will probably do the annual fee up front thing just because I had budgeted for X4 anyway.
 
Next year about this time will be the acid test - did I receive sufficient value? But, we've all asked that question about a software update once or twice... at least. So instead of wondering if I will get my money's worth I'll be asking if I did - a subtle difference to be sure. But if they are willing to bet they can impress me over the next 12 months well then I'm in, and I really do hope they wow us all!
 
Hedging my bet just slightly - there are improvements in the 2015 list that I really like, but they still gotta prove to me that they can keep up the pace<G>! Best of luck to them.

I believe I paid $99 for the upgrade from X1 to X2 and $149 for the upgrade from X2 to X3. I just ordered the X3 to Platninum for $149 since I would have upgraded to the next version anyway. And I'm excited. Can you imagine the pressure the bakers are under to totally "wow" us in the coming year. You really think they haven't thought about what happens if they don't create a buzz? Are far as I'm concerned it's a no brainer.