I dont think you'd be dissapointed going to USB fuze. As long as you have a good solid power supply or you are using a good quality powered external hub, you will get every bit as reliable service out of the new ones as you did your old set. Mine are about that age too, and while I had to replace 1 pot so far in the stick (Flightstick Pro), the hat is a bit iffy, and number 2 button sticks sometimes, I wouldnt trade my setup for anything (except new CH stuff
). Of course, they dont have a FF stick in USB, but if you moved to WinXP already, you have already given up your FF. You also gain the toe brake function on your USB Pro Pedals.
Oh, and when you do upgrade, consider selling the old stuff for parts?