Steve, you need to check your facts before quoting versions and pricing.
Artcam Insignia is the comparable version to Aspire, it is $2500 and comes in dongle or dongle free versions. Dongle versions allows you to load it on as many computers as you like.
what you call annual support is actually an optional maintenance you can take. Maintenance for Insignia is $450 which includes new releases/upgrades/unlimited support by trained personnel in person by phone plus other mediums.
OldNovice
As you stated ArtCam is not as expensive as Aspire then you must have been referring to the entry level ArtCam Express, which is upgradable.
As Randall stated you should try all software versions including others not listed here. You should go with the software that you find more comfortable working in, not what others try to push you too, you should also be comfortable with the support offered that it suits your needs.
Most major software has post processors for Shopbot as well as most are user or support configurable depending on your needs
Gary