Why a new machine?

I have been using a Resmed Auto Set Vantage 8 for about 5-6 years. It has served me well. I'm not totally convinced that it always gives me accurate AHI info, but seems good enough. I have a cpap doc visit coming up in a couple weeks, and I "qualify" to get a new machine (at my expense of course). I think I would get the latest model. But.....it will cost me money. Is there any reason NOT to update my machine? What would the advantages be?
Thanks!

The only disadvantage that I can think of is simply the out of pocket cost.

Advantages...heated hose option (mainly a comfort feature but for some of us it is more than just comfort) helps reduce annoying rain out and offers more customization of humidity that is delivered to the mask.
......a little more comprehensive data is now available...like centrals and flow rate.....
.....with using the SD card for data there is no longer any need for the Smart card readers.
....software is easy to find and use and there's even SleepyHead software when is a lot of fun.
The newer machines are even more quiet.

Probably some other minor advantages but I can't think of them right now.

Your machine is getting near its end of life. If it dies you will have a back up on the shelf.
If you don't have insurance then watch the forum here for people selling units that would work for you.

Country4ever wrote:I have been using a Resmed Auto Set Vantage 8 for about 5-6 years and I "qualify" to get a new machine (at my expense of course).
Thanks!

If you are paying 100% of the cost of a new machine, you don't need to "qualify" to get a new machine & can get one any time you like.

If you are paying 100% yourself, I would not rush to get a new machine because of the cost. But, I might consider buying a "slightly used" one from a trusted seller.

If insurance is paying a part or a large part of the cost of a new machine, I would do it for all the reasons Pugsy gave & also to use your old machine as a "backup" / "travel" machine. It is great to have a backup / travel machine, but not absolutely necessary as I am sure you have successfully done without those in the past.

Thanks everyone! Good points.

Thinking about the timing of buying a new machine, how long have the current (top) models of Resmed and Respironics machines been out?

Does that give us any clues about when the _next_ new models come out?

It would be a shame to shell out for a new machine and then have them come out with a new model the next month.

xyz.........I was wondering the same thing. I think that happened to me when I bought the one I have. I think it was just ending its run. I just accepted the one that the Lincare lady gave me, but now I know better.