Just to counter your argument though - getting into the NBA is the only way to be a successful pro basketball player. Getting into Navy Seals is the only way to be an elite special forces soldier (well, that and a bunch of other elite forces).
But getting into YC isn't the only way to build a successful company.
I understand the appeal - getting into an elite institution can open plenty of doors. But do consider whether that is worth whatever % of your company YC will take.
I'd love to be in your guys position and I have a hard time just understanding why you would want to give away control which is basically freedom, be essentially be cool or be part of an "elite" group?
You guys already are cool, you don't need someone else to be it.
I have never actually started a company myself, so I wouldn't know. I just think I would be extremely satisfied if I could sustain myself without any investor money.
Seems like a better way to grow in my mind, if you're not aiming to be a billion dollar company anytime soon.
But - it seems that you guys put more importance on being perceived as successful (= backed by YC), then actually building a profitable business.