I started bowhunting about 5 years ago. Used to borrow one of my brother-in-law's old Matthews bows. The first bow I bought myself in '03 was aused Magnatec (by then already a couple of year old design). I shot it pretty well and still have it as my backup bow. Then I tried the Xtec in '05. What a difference. First of all, it is about 2 pounds lighter. IMO it is also quieter, fasterand more accurate. I am not a bow expert by any means, but to me there is a noticeable difference between the two bows I own. I have not felt the need to buy another bow, but I will keep an eye out. Of one thing I am sure, they will improve in design and function. Maybe not this year or next, but they will improve. The only question for me is when (not if) the improvements become worth the cost to make it worth buying a new bow.