I'm having a problem with this whole conversation. Yes, my husband and I discuss all major purchases but the bottom line is this: he decides which brand and how much to spend when it comes to things he is the exclusive one to use. I make the same decisions when it comes to what I use. It would never occur to me to 'ask'permission to buy a new machine. The conversation would be "This is the one I decided best fits my needs and budget." BTW.....that statement would be when I introduce him to my new machine. Let me also say that it isn't our practice to make purchases that are totally off the wall for us. Not even going to tell you my reaction to "convince him I'm worth it". Gloria Steinem would be speechless!