I've taken your suggestion and simply gone w/ the latest version for now. We at least have very generous return policies here, so I can set it up, try it out, and return if I hate it or want to upgrade.
Honestly for me I think simple is best here. I always get frustrated cuz I want these things to just work, and I'm no audiophile/won't be listening to music on it like ever.
I appreciate all the suggestions and info, you guys rock!