Sorry to jump into your conversation, but I couldn't help it, LOL. I used to feel this way too, but after the last color at the salon, I decided, what the heck. Sooo glad I did -- I swear I get better color out of an $8 box than I've gotten from the $$$$ salon. Try it! My favorite brand is L'Oreal Excellence Creme.
OH MY! I use Excellence too!!! 6R (Medium Auburn)...I hear (not that I would know) but it has incredible gray coverage (so grays give a tone on tone look)...and its less than $10 per use :)