I'm a low end guy. Once I took up putting my own rods together (I won't say "building" because that implies far more skill than I possess) I realized that a decent rod can be had for a very reasonable cost. I've rebuilt all the manufactured rods I've owned, and in every case it came out better than what I bought originally. I can't see paying hundreds of dollars for something that I am most likely going to break in the woods anyway.

That said, if you love high end equipment and it adds to your enjoyment, I say more power to you! Enjoy! If you pay $800 for a rod, it is going to perform for you like my econo-rods never will. There is nothing wrong with enjoying the fruits of success.