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6) I want a hydrotherapy experience for my tired and aching muscles and bones, neck jets for shoulder stress from typing all day, and foot jets for better circulation in my feet, leg jets to ease the painful places from sitting all day, and a variety of options for upper, mid- and lower back. I'd like to be able to move around the tub for different sensations and massage options. 7) I haven't done a lot of price comparisons yet, but I'm willing to spend the money for a good quality product, yet I don't need all the bells and whistles. No stereo, just the stars. But some drink holders and lights might be a nice touch. No need for the cadillac model. Practical is what works with me, but I'm also gonna want to be happy with giving myself something special, so something above average in quality and design is what I'm after. A high number of jets (not really high, but mid-range, like 40-80) will probably be fine with me. I'm concerned with the upkeep, so convenience and quality is a plus, but I don't want to increase my heating bill too crazy much, so energy efficiency is also a concern.
1) I'm prepared to spend about $5,000 - $7,500 for a mid-size tub - likely no smaller than 78" X 78"
You'll be able to get something nice in that price range but 78" square is hardly what I would consider "mid-sized". That is 7'4" square which in the "large" spa category so I think you'll fnd many at the upper end of your range (or above). You get one chance to do this right so if you're hitting your budget ceiling look to drop some of the bells and whistles rather than looking at lesser quality tubs that promise you everything but don't hold up over time. Quality of the spa should always be #1. From your list, Artesian has a good reputation, I'm not too sure on Great Lakes (hear conflicting info) but I can't say I'm a Cal Spas fan (they're known for meeting your price point but not falling short on quality and service). Take your time, shop around and keep an open mind when you're being blasted with information.
Where in Oregon are you? My parents are in the middle of nowhere about an hour SE of Portland. They got their Sundance (well it was a Sweetwater then) from George Morlan (The water heater king...) of all places. This was probably back in March 04 and they got an 03 closeout model... but they got it cheap (like $3500). Way cheaper than I could find here in SoCal. They had one problem with it and the dealer helped em out no problem. They did have to pay a trip charge because they came out and the wiring wasn't up to code (they had the same wiring from their first tub 20 years earlier) so the guys wouldn't work on it until it was to code. But other than that they are very happy with it.
These are the no bumper people ? Boy, do they find the deals.