I think this is an especially appropriate post in the E-Trac Forum. Most people talk themselves into a top of the line machine by anticipating the value of all the stuff they are now going to find, because of the new machine. Certainly there are some that do make that once in a lifetime find and ecplise the cost of the E-Trac in one dig but most everyone will continue to plug away, picking up a piece of silver here and there.
In all reality, a minimum wage job will pay for the machine just as fast as your average numbers listed above.
That being said, it is still an excellent investment in recreation and relaxation. Metal Detecting also prompts local research, which broadens your knowledge base and opens the door to new contacts and friendships.
I also like to look at the long term value of the hobby, compared to other activitys. The other day I took my Daughter to a "Matinee" movie because admission was only $2.00 apiece. I bought a large popcorn to share, a couple of sodas and a box of candy. The total for the "reduced price" movie was $22.00. The movie lasted for about an hour and a half, which means that it cost me $14.66 per hour to attend the movie with my Daughter.
So, if I went to the Movie Theater ,once a weekend, with my Daughter, the cost would be $1143.48 per year.
Don't misread the value I place on time with my Daughter, only know that most other hobbies are more expensive per hour than detecting and there is always that chance for a "Pay Day".
Most of all, enjoy your time out. Relax, appreciate the friendships that have developed because of the hobby and don't have a "Bad Day" because you didn't find the Mother Lode.