XT Live came out... I bought it and paid for all the amp model packs without blinking an eye...... X3 Live came out.... got all the amp models in it with initial purchase....very cool! Bought the HD 500X.... paid for all the amp model packs..... no problem or issue here. I will be happy either way for the helix...... as for updates, I still use my XT Live, X3 Live, HD 500X, M13, The first Variax guitar, Tone Port with POD Farm Premium 2, Pocket POD and the UX8...... all still work fine without a need for updates...... It's always like Christmas when Line 6 does a major firmware update and throw us some extra amps and/or effects.....