Yes, (boy has this thread taken a turn!) I agree, that is what makes this hobby so wonderful-the flexibility that we all have. Speaking of having 1 aircraft simulated to the 'T' versus having something a bit more generic for flexibility, that's one of the biggest reasons I switched from the B737NG to the Learjet 45. I love all kinds of airplanes, and the 737NG to me is one of the most perfect airliners to simulate simply because of all the real parts available (which have in turn lead to the development of replica parts). However, with that project, I had become obsessed with building the airplane to the 'T' and therefore I knew that I would never be happy with a home built panel, or yokes, or seats and since I just happend to be acquaintances with a guy down the road a ways with a real 737 nose/yokes/seats/liner parts, I just HAD to buy that for myself one day. Then, thankfully, I spent a week in Tallahassee, FL on a business trip and 3 out of the 5 nights I was there, I was able to sit out on the bench at a very busy FBO that catered to PC-12s, L45's, Citation jets, Embraers, and the like. The next day after the first night out at the FBO, while sitting in my training class, my mind kept going back to the flight line and it dawned on me- Build a bussiness jet and dont get so attached to the aircraft type that you go mad by trying to replicate every nut and bolt.
And here I am now, 9 months later, and very happy to be building the L45, but not allowing my self to get too wrapped up in the smallest details like the exact color, real seats, or even all the systems. I can say with assurance that if I were still planning for a 737NG, I would have nothing more than the PMDG737NG and my computer, simply because I could never grasp the concept of buy a little at a time and build slowly as you can afford. Because I forced myself to lighten up a bit, I have went from 1 pc running FS9 to 3 pcs running FS9, PMRJ, a SYS3 interface board, switches that are functional, and soon the throttle quad will be finished and the interconnected yokes will begin construction.
Im not advocating not building the ultimate aircraft of your dreams, because if I had the money to do it as I demand for the 737NG or the 777, I would build one in a heartbeat. But, I know that it's beyond my means right now and Im satisfied taking the path I have chosen.
And, to full fill the urge to fly the 737, 777, Baron 58, or the PC12, I will just fly them using the joystick from the instructor's station!