Comparison on quality and reliability

[terps19]

Ok so we have narrowed it down to 3 main brands and we are close to making a decision, and should have it made Saturday, so that is exciting:

Jacuzzi J-335, Bullfrog R6L, Artesian Grand Bahama/Elite, and Artesian South Seas 860L.   

They each have a little different features but I wanted to know the long term reliability/quality of the build, jets, pumps etc.  Each come from a local dealer and each would be the call to make when it needs repairs etc.  The dealers all seem very knowledgeable and not pressure guys. 

Thanks!   

[The Wizard of Spas]

I'd wager almost everyone on this forum would agree that the 3 brands are of great quality - on an Apples to Apples basis - so it looks like you're picking among the better end of the scale.  The best way to differentiate is to wet test and find what feels best.

I'd note that South Seas is a lower-end line of Artesian Spas in comparison to the Island Elite line, for context.  Just an FYI.

[d00nut]

All things being equal, quality and reliability I would say are almost all exactly the same.

As a dealer, if I was taking on one of these brands, it would almost entirely come down to the relationship I have and who I feel most comfortable with long term with the company.

Of course... the wet test too

[terps19]

Right on and yes we are wet testing the ones we haven't yet on Saturday.  And yes I am aware that the Artesian South Seas is not the same as the Island Elite, I just didnt know if they sacrificed quality for the price that is given.  If it were of inferior quality I would like to know.  I just liked that I get the layout that i like at a price that is a good amount below the others. 

[Tman122]

Right on and yes we are wet testing the ones we haven't yet on Saturday.  And yes I am aware that the Artesian South Seas is not the same as the Island Elite, I just didnt know if they sacrificed quality for the price that is given.  If it were of inferior quality I would like to know.  I just liked that I get the layout that i like at a price that is a good amount below the others.

When you sell anything for less you always compromise on quantity and quality. That doesn't make it a bad product just not the same.

[swilly1000]

In that group Artesian.

[Hottubguy]

In that group Artesian.

Why?

Each of the brands you are looking at are quality tubs. Let the wet test and dealer experience be the deciding factor

[swilly1000]

Personal preference.

[terps19]

Ok cool.  Price wise they are all about the same except for the grand bahama elite. 

J335 $9400
Tropic Seas Wiakiki/Elite $8100/$8900

Then the rest of the Tropic Seas tubs are lesser in price:

Maui $7600, Kona $7000, Rio $7000

So I wanted to make sure that if I chose Tropic Seas in either form, I would not be sacrificing too much in the way of quality and longevity and reliability. 

[Tman122]

Ok cool.  Price wise they are all about the same except for the grand bahama elite. 

J335 $9400
Tropic Seas Wiakiki/Elite $8100/$8900

Then the rest of the Tropic Seas tubs are lesser in price:

Maui $7600, Kona $7000, Rio $7000

So I wanted to make sure that if I chose Tropic Seas in either form, I would not be sacrificing too much in the way of quality and longevity and reliability.

No, mostly features, but some longevity and reliability. Just take care of it, then it won't matter.