I think obsessing too much over gear limits one's abilities. It's having knowledge and the ability to use (and sometimes abuse) it which is what makes one rise above the rest. Of course, having a good ear is a pre-requisite to our chosen profession and good gear can certainly make our job easier. But for those of us who can't afford the Manley's, Neve's, Apogee's and what have you, the ability to transcend your gear's limitations and take it in directions which the manufacturer never thought of should be considered a challenge to one's abilities.
I agree with chuck, abyss and starfugger on their views; chuck especially on the use of not-so-professional equipment because it's often the driver, not the car (and in chuck's case, the indian not the arrow) that gets us to our destination. One thing I do know, what separates the top engineers is their attention to detail, the level of which we all hope to attain.
So for all of those making good music (and pleasing your clients) on your Behringers, Alesis, and other affordable equipment, I salute you.
