Hot Tub Forum
Original => Hot Tub Forum => Topic started by: anne on January 29, 2006, 07:55:18 pm
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I am new to this site, though from the many threads that I have read, sounds like there is a lot of knowledge and experience out there. I have been wanting to buy a hot tub for about 3 years, and finally (I hope) have enough saved to get serious about it. I grew up with a traditional redwood barrel-style tub that my father built, and so I remember how addictive and relaxing they can be. I have a fairly good idea of what I want from some dry testing and other people's tubs and internet research, but have not wet tested yet. Like others, I went out there thinking that $3K would do the job.......sigh. So I have accepted that I need to spend more, but I'd REALLY like to keep it under $6K, if that is possible (still getting a quality product). I am becoming familiar with all the "big" names out there, but my impression is that I would have to spend $8-9K for a decent spa. The best analogy I can come up with is that I want a Honda- not a Lexus, but also not a Kia. (Hope I'm not offending any Kia drivers out there....)
I want:
1)7 foot (8foot ok but overkill) with a lounge
2)shoulder jets
3)a reasonable number of jets, but I have no specific theraputic needs- I just am a very active person with a stressful job who loves hot water.
4)head/neck pads
5)a quiet system
6)independent seat controls would be nice, but are NOT a deal breaker.
I DONT want:
1)sound system
2)bubblers/whirlpool/special therapy jets
3)waterfall, other special effects
4)extra lights/LEDs/etc.
I live in the Sacramento, CA area, so I'm lucky enough to have almost all dealers that I have heard of within a 45 min drive, except Sundance.
So I guess my questions are, with the above background,
1) Am I going to find something for less than $6K?
2) With the above guidelines, can anyone recommend specific models? (Even if they are over 6K, I still appreciate the ideas)
3) Can anyone recommend a dealer in this area?
I have other questions, but dont want to be too much of a pest....yet. Thanks, thanks, thanks!
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For around $6K, you have a few choices.
Look at Beachcomber, Artesian Island Series, Coleman and secondary spa lines from Master, Sundance and possibly Dimension 1 (D1) and Marquis.
I went looking in late 2004 and these were around $6,000. I didn't have a chance to see the Marquis and D1 lines. There are probably others, but this is what I saw.
I bought an Artesian Island and this line can be configured how you want/need it. I think LA Spas does the same.
As far as questions, ask away - we all did!
Good Luck!
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Yes, LA has many different jet configurations for each of their spa models.
Based on your description the Oasis model or the San Juan from the Tropical series would work.
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Anne,
You have described the Tiger River Bengal.
Full disclosure message: I am a dealer.
Go to http://tigerriver.hotspring.com/Models/spa_models_bengal.html for more info.
I don't know what it sells for in other markets, but in the Sacramento market it can meet your budget.
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Another good brand that's not terribly well-known is Hydropool, http://www.hydropoolhottubs.com/. Their Serenity 6000 is a nice hot tub, about the size you're looking for and is in your price range. You might also look at their 600 series self-cleaning units. They're a bit more money but should be in your price range.
Disclaimer: I'm not a dealer nor do I own one but I do have one on order ;D and can't wait till it's here.
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Anne, this is a great time of year to go spa shopping IMHO. Alot of dealers will have 2005 spas that they would like to move to make room for the 2006 spas. I bought my spa in late Jan early Feb of 03 and it was a 2002 model. The price I paid in Jan 03 was quite a bit less than the price I was quoted in May 02 for the same spa. I guess what I am trying to say is start hitting the spa dealers. Tell them your budget. I am sure every major manufacturer will have a number of spas in your price range. I beleive $6000 will get you a very nice spa especially if you dont mind buying an 05 model. Good luck and keep us posted.
Full disclosure, I am a dealer but just not spas...dont tell the police...LOL...
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Don't forget to look at the used market.
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as far as Marquis goes, they have a double lounger in their everyday line which meets your size requierment. its called the 530 (5 seating positions-30 jets).
the next model down with a lounger would be in the "hideaway" line, but it is a little smaller (6 1/2). it has 1/2 the amount of jets. it has 5 seating positions as well.
hope that gives you a little better idea of what Marquis has to offer pertaining to your list of "wants".
check with your local dealer as he/she might have an '05 they are looking to move. Couldnt hurt IMO.
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Thank you all for your input. I hope to get out this weekend for some serious shopping. I'm really hoping that there might be an '05 floor model with my name on it somewhere.
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Another good brand that's not terribly well-known is Hydropool, http://www.hydropoolhottubs.com/. Their Serenity 6000 is a nice hot tub, about the size you're looking for and is in your price range. You might also look at their 600 series self-cleaning units. They're a bit more money but should be in your price range.
Disclaimer: I'm not a dealer nor do I own one but I do have one on order ;D and can't wait till it's here.
Good luck with your search and this Jim guys seems like he's on the ball! ;) Which model did you purchase?
Enjoy your spa Jim and if there's anything I can do to help, please let me know.
Steve