The hub is 13 years old, give Shimano a break! If you think they are unique in planned obsolence, look at Campy's history.

Unless you insist on Dura Ace, new Ultegra or even 105 8/9/10-speed hubs are available very reasonably priced and Colorado Cyclist offers a complete rear wheel with an Ultegra hub and Mavic CXP-33 or Open Pro rims for ~$175.