I have NO IDEA how you guys come to the conclusion that you're "breaking even" with this hobby. Yes, it's a hobby and I don't track the costs to be anal, I'm just curious. But I'm a Cost Analyst, so such is life.
BIAB is the huge difference for me. Propane burner kits are under $100 with an aluminum pot. Throw in a $5 mesh bag and you are ready to brew. You can spend another $100 for ball valve, sight glass, thermometer, but that is an unnecessary expense.
I'm at least $1000+ up (without labor factor) over my past year of brewing. Now if I went three-tier with Boilmakers, now I'm at the very least $1000 in the hole.