I think the reason there are so many PV's is because there are so many different preferences. I don't think you will get a consensus on what the best solution is because the best solution is going to depend upon a persons needs, expectations, financial commitment and styling preferences.
From what I have read, it is this, in a nutshell. Some people are willing to spend x amount on top of the range kit, other needs are satisfied with cheap stuff that will need replacing. Personally, I think I fall into the latter group. My battery hasn't yet failed in 6 months, and for the cost of a few pints of beer the provari simply can't be compared, I can't justify such an outlay when I'm spending at the very most £30 per year on batteries. There is just no comparison imho.
To put it into context, it'd take me 6 years of 3 batteries per year to make one purchase of a provari. I've been at it 6 months and my original battery is still functioning well.
For me, not worth it.