I own a 2013 Optima since February. We have missed 5 days of not using it since it was delivered. We were looking at the Hot Springs Aria which I loved. When we wet tested the Hot Springs Aria, I really liked it but the wife could not stay in the seat when the jets were on. She didn't get a lot of enjoyment out of the tub.
The other wet test was with the Optima. Definitely had more room then the Aria and the Optima cost more. The HUGE deal for us was the middle foot well the Optima had. My wife could use the raised foot well to help keep her in the seat with the jets on high. We both felt the jets in the Optima were better suited for what we were looking for. For the three months that we have owned the Optima I could not be happier.
I did a lot of research on the Clearray system and have been told by the "professionals" on here that it is a waste of money and does nothing but cost money every year to replace the bulb but I can say something is working well to help keep my water clear. The really funny part about all the negative comments about the Clearray system I have heard is I use less chemicals in my tub with twice the use as a neighbor with the "other" system. I won't say what tub he has to keep from getting slammed on here by some but it is the #1 hot tub seller and its a 2012 model.
To be very honest with you and this will piss off the guys that will blast what I have typed but you will not go wrong with either tub or company. To me it will always come down to three things. Your budget. The wet test. The dealer. The hot tub has added great enjoyment for the wife and I and many neighbors that seem to stop by now with their swim suits on.
