Hot Tub Forum

Original => Hot Tub Forum => Topic started by: anne on February 23, 2006, 10:35:34 pm

Title: Down to two tub choices
Post by: anne on February 23, 2006, 10:35:34 pm
I didn't want to put "arctic" in the title......

I'm down to two tub choices. I'm not sure why I'm posting, as I know that I just have to look at the benefits of each one and make up my mind, but ..... input, anyone?

Hotspring Envoy, 2005, new.
Pros:
Great dealer
big company=reliable service later= peace of mind
Nice seating arrangement
nice but not awesome jets
pretty lights ;)

Cons:
Not a huge fan of Moto massage....it might grow on me
Jet strength and arrangement not as appealing to me
Not as attractive

Arctic Summit Legend, 2005 floor model
Pros:
Most comfortable tub I have sat in
Awesome jets/massage
Love the cedar

Cons:
Smaller company/new dealer= less confidence of having dealer/service in my area later (good guy, though)
A little more expensive, but fairly negligible at this point
Can only afford "Arctic" not "peak" ozone
As reliable? I think so, but I'm getting brainwashed by anti-Arctic-ism


It would seem that quality-wise, they are both great spas. If that is the case, I should go with my gut and get the Arctic that my butt likes, and not stress over the *possibility* that the dealer could close down and I'd be without service. But then my brain kicks in and says to play it safe and go with the dealer who seems more experienced and dedicated to his spas, and the back up of a big company

sigh.   :-/
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: salesdvl on February 23, 2006, 11:48:30 pm
Quote
Arctic Summit Legend, 2005 floor model
Pros:
Most comfortable tub I have sat in
Awesome jets/massage



Sounds to me like the decision is made.  Dont over think it.   ;)

Who wants to say " It's got a pretty light from a huge company but sure wish I was more comfortable and the jets felt better."
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: galen on February 23, 2006, 11:59:37 pm
Both very good tubs. I looked at HS for two months, I'd go in every other week or so. I would have had to buy a new one. Floor models were taken.  The Artic cedar is nice.  Well built. Dealer held firm on his price. This is the time of the year when you can get a good deal on a 05. I think you would be happy with whatever one you choose. You can't go wrong. Is money an issue?
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: anne on February 24, 2006, 02:48:48 am
Quote
I think you would be happy with whatever one you choose. You can't go wrong. Is money an issue?


They are within a few hundred dollars of one another, so not really, in the big picture. The arctic is a bit more.
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: bosco0633 on February 24, 2006, 04:49:28 am
Anne, good choices.  I am happy to see that you have not rushed your decision and that you have gone about researching the right way.

This reminds me of my purchase last year.  I bought the arctic tundra in feb. 05.  I was so pumped up, and then I found this website and continued on my home work.  I began getting scared about arctic due to the fact that there was some resistance on the forum.  All the sudden, last year the 05 MAXXUS came out and it was the hype here.  I mean everyone was buying it.  So I got scared and started looking at it.  

But my gut said get the arctic and I have not had any regrets yet.

I dont know much about hotsprings, so I can not add to much here on that end.  It appears that there are many happy owners of the envoy here.  So if you chose this, I dont think that you would have regrets.

Arcitc is not a small company.  It has become one of Canadas fastest growing companies in the past few years.  They have recieved several awards with respect to this.  It is just that many store fronts have recently opened, which, is ultimately what you are affraid of.  They have been around for 9 or 10 years now, so they are not that new.

Arctic backs there product just as well if not better than some major companies.  I have had two small issues with the tub, and the repairs were done the same time that I called.  One was a tear in cover upon arrival and the second was a dent in the cedar that was buffed out and restained.

You sound very happy with your choice already. It sounds like you are going into buyers remorse a bit though.  It is normal at this point, I did the same thing.  Go with what feels right to you.  Everyone has there opinions, however, they are not going to be the ones sitting in your tub enjoying it with you.  

Dont let it eat you up.  Just remember, you are getting this tub to relax and enjoy hot water.  Either decision will be the best decision due to the fact that you picked the tub that best suits your needs.

Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: Tman122 on February 24, 2006, 05:26:50 am
Go with your butt. Comfort is the most important factor, then dealer comfort is second.
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: jnsjr58 on February 24, 2006, 06:36:54 am
 Sounds to me like you already made your choice.......

Niki says it best " Just do it!"
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: Tatooed_Lady on February 24, 2006, 08:29:34 am
You've agonized over all the tubs and the options.....you've told us you like one over the other for a few reasons....if Arctic supplies a good warranty and you feel that the dealer you purchase from will be there if/when you need the work done....you've already made your decision.
Best of luck!
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: cappykat on February 24, 2006, 10:03:42 am
Yep, I agree.  Go with your gut.  
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: drewstar on February 24, 2006, 10:11:00 am
I'm a happy Watkins (who makes Hotsprings) customer.   They are a good company and make a great  product.  It has also been my expereince that the folks representing them are pretty top notch.  

I also have an aquaintence that purchased an Artic 2 years ago and they are very happy with it.  Despite some bad press on overly aggresive salesfolks, and the whole (as well as abit pricey for what you get , IMHO) oh yea..the  TP - FF issue, the folks who I met who have an Artic are satisfied.

So I'd let it come down to the wet test.
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: bosco0633 on February 24, 2006, 06:35:45 pm
drewster, where is your devils hat!!!  seems to neutral of a comment. ;D ;D
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: Spatech_tuo on February 24, 2006, 07:27:27 pm
This is how I would do it if you're on the fence (not as a spa guy but as an "I want to be sure I'm making the right decison" guy).

Take a couple days off from the decision to let your mind sink. Go in Sunday to each dealer and tell them you are down to your final decision between 2 spas and just want to look one more time. Who knows, one of them may take an extra step to help you decide. Then after looking at them wait a day and go with your gut because either way you're going to be a happy camper.
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: anne on February 25, 2006, 04:14:01 pm
Well, the deal is done. With my own time to think, and all of your helpful comments, I found myself feeling very good about my decision, and so the spa is purchased!

In about two weeks, I should have my Arctic Legend SE sitting in my back yard.

Anne
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: Tatooed_Lady on February 25, 2006, 04:23:18 pm
and then you'll say to yourself "boy, I'm glad I went with what was more comfortable for ME!"
Happy soaking!
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: bosco0633 on February 25, 2006, 07:35:41 pm
congrats anne, did you get the sumit
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: anne on February 25, 2006, 10:07:23 pm
Quote
congrats anne, did you get the sumit



Yep. I meant to say Arctic Summit Legend Extreme. Black metallic shell, standard cedar case, no northern lights or stereo, but it does have the aromatherapy feature. Not sure if I'll use that or not.
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: stl-rex on February 26, 2006, 12:22:49 am
Congrats on the decision.  I have the Tundra Legend Extreme and thoroughly enjoy it.
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: jnsjr58 on February 27, 2006, 08:35:30 pm
anne,
Can you please share what you have bought and what you paid?
I haven't ruled out Arctic, being the closest dealer to my house they were the first stop of this long journey. (I like the Cub series) I have not wet tested yet either. I was told they will be at a local "Spring Show " and will have some great deals.I will just need to be ready to Buy!
Any info you can share with me will be much appreciated.
Thanks, Jim

( I bet it's a load off your mind once the decisionis finally made  :) )
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: anne on February 27, 2006, 11:21:31 pm
It *is* a load off my mind to have made the choice, and also to still be happy with it a few days later, even without HOT WATER to soothe away my worries.

I dont mind sharing what I got and how much paid: It is an Arctic Legend Extreme, with cedar cabinet (you can pay more for coated aluminum that looks fairly nice and is easier to maintain, but I like the wood), forever floor, Arctic ozone, lifter, stairs on one side and a "bar" on the other side, starter chems, and delivery. It is a 2005 floor model that was in their showroom all year, so I was able to get a great deal. I paid $8100, but ended up getting another $100 off b/c I printed a coupon from their website for a cover lifter upgrade. I had not expected that coupon to be so useful, and was not even sure he could honor it with the other discounts I was getting, but he did honor it with a smile. I also asked him to change out all the jet nozzle things as a few of them came loose on each of my wet tests. This was an issue that I saw a few people here comment on, and my dealer indicated that Arctic had redesigned them for '06- so I'll have '06 jets when it comes. He did not hesitate when I made that request.

I dont have the tub yet, as the ozone has to be installed, and steps/bar delivered.


Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: jnsjr58 on February 28, 2006, 05:51:13 am
Thanks anne,

That helps a lot, knowing what they are able to do as far as pricing goes. My store had a Frontier floor model( the one with the double lounger) I wasn't crazy about the lounger, and after wet testing I realize it's not right for me. Anyway, I was told retail was 15 and change and I could have it for 12. Which sounded good. Two days later they called and offered it for 11. That got me thinking that I had better start shopping around, Four weeks latter........ still shopping and not soaking :-[.
Thanks again for the info :) Jim

PS that ledgend extreme looks awsome!!! Top of the line spa for a killer price...... You did R-E-A-L good!!!
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: cappykat on February 28, 2006, 06:37:51 pm
Congrats, Anne!  Geez...that looks like an awesome tub.  You may need seatbelts.. :o ;D ;)
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: JcDenton on March 01, 2006, 12:26:34 pm
Congrats Anne!

As a fellow Arctic owner I hope that you have a great experience with your tub!

We've had ours for about 20 months and have been very happy so far. Our dealer has been terrific and very responsive to any problems we've had. For example, our jets were problematic and continued to pop out or turn themselves off on their own. My dealer offered to come out and has since replaced ALL the jets.

As little things arise you'll be able to test the merit of your dealer. As well, I purchase all my product from my dealer and support them as best as possible in return.


Good Luck and holler if you have any questions.


Jc
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: anne on March 01, 2006, 02:26:48 pm
Quote
For example, our jets were problematic and continued to pop out or turn themselves off on their own. My dealer offered to come out and has since replaced ALL the jets.

Jc


I think I remember you posting about those jet issues, so when I wet tested, I was not too worried. I asked him to change out all the jets based on what you had said, so, thanks! What model do you have?
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: JcDenton on March 01, 2006, 02:58:46 pm
Quote
What model do you have?




...just the lowly Summit Signature Series. ;D

The Legend package looked unreal but was not in the cards for us financially. Having said that, with just my wife and I using our tub (with only 2 pumps), we find that we have more than enough pressure. However, when we have a group of people in the tub, the third pump would be a nice addition!


Jc
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: Hot Tub Guru on March 01, 2006, 03:08:20 pm
Anne got a supper price.  I've been selling Arctic Spas for 7 years, and have never sold a Legend Extreme for what she paid.  

jnsjr58-
If you have any questions on the Arctic Spa please ask!

Michael
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: East_TX_Spa on March 01, 2006, 03:13:46 pm
Quote
Anne got a supper price.


I do the same thing for my customers.  A guy called me yesterday right before supper and I sold him an '05 Vista for $9100, no haggling.

I'm glad to see other dealers are slaves to their belly the way I am.

Terminator
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: HotTubMan on March 01, 2006, 03:35:22 pm
Quote
I'm glad to see other dealers are slaves to their belly the way I am.

Terminator

LOL, I didnt notice until you pointed it out..
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: anne on March 01, 2006, 06:33:44 pm
I'm feeling better an better about this tub, 'specially with you Arctic folks giving such supportive comments. NOW I JUST NEED MY TUB! I may have to change my online name to "Polarbear" or "Icy" or something, since Anne is just so.....passe.
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: Tatooed_Lady on March 01, 2006, 06:37:32 pm
Quote
I may have to change my online name to "Polarbear" or "Icy" or something, since Anne is just so.....passe.

SpAnne, Polar Anne, Toasty Toes, Polar Soak, Arctic Anne...

Just avoid stuff like: Leaker, Yellow Water, Cloudy, Hazy, Itchy, Grumpy, Dopey and the other dwarves.
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: Spatech_tuo on March 01, 2006, 06:43:51 pm
Quote
SpAnne, Polar Anne, Toasty Toes, Polar Soak, Arctic Anne...

Just avoid stuff like: Leaker, Yellow Water, Cloudy, Hazy, Itchy, Grumpy, Dopey and the other dwarves.


I vote for "Anne Arctic".
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: JcDenton on March 01, 2006, 11:09:34 pm
Quote
I vote for "Anne Arctic".


We have a winner.
Title: Re: Down to two tub choices
Post by: stl-rex on March 02, 2006, 12:07:06 am
Quote
It *is* a load off my mind to have made the choice, and also to still be happy with it a few days later, even without HOT WATER to soothe away my worries.

I dont mind sharing what I got and how much paid: It is an Arctic Legend Extreme, with cedar cabinet (you can pay more for coated aluminum that looks fairly nice and is easier to maintain, but I like the wood), forever floor, Arctic ozone, lifter, stairs on one side and a "bar" on the other side, starter chems, and delivery. It is a 2005 floor model that was in their showroom all year, so I was able to get a great deal. I paid $8100, but ended up getting another $100 off b/c I printed a coupon from their website for a cover lifter upgrade. I had not expected that coupon to be so useful, and was not even sure he could honor it with the other discounts I was getting, but he did honor it with a smile. I also asked him to change out all the jet nozzle things as a few of them came loose on each of my wet tests. This was an issue that I saw a few people here comment on, and my dealer indicated that Arctic had redesigned them for '06- so I'll have '06 jets when it comes. He did not hesitate when I made that request.

I dont have the tub yet, as the ozone has to be installed, and steps/bar delivered.




Great price Anne on a really nice spa.  My non year end close out price for the Tundra equipped the same way was $8800 (until I upgraded to peak ozone).  You will not regret getting the extra jets and pump.  I really like having three pumps and the power you get to all seating positions.  If where you live gets warmer, the "therapy air" option included with the extreme will help keep your tub temps under control.  Others can flame away, but for $8100, you will not find anything close in jet performance to what you purchased.

To the person who was quoted >10K (assuming USD) for a Frontier, unless it's a Legend SE, you're getting the shaft from the dealer.