Hot Tub Forum

Original => Hot Tub Forum => Topic started by: vanduse1 on July 15, 2006, 01:45:47 pm

Title: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: vanduse1 on July 15, 2006, 01:45:47 pm
I need some help deciding between a new '06 Optima and '06 J-470. I have looked and researched both units and am now looking for some additional opinions. Does anyone have any strong opinions on the differences between the two? Has anyone experienced the Aromathearopy of the Sundance? That feature sounds appealing but I don't know how well it works and don't want that to be the basis of my decision if it is not worth it. I have drytested both units but have not wet tested either at this time.  

Also, here is the pricing I was quoted by my dealer on my first visit. I have not tired any negotiation at this point.  Please let me know what others have paid for these tubs.  

Optima ($9600) - Includes Cover, Lift, Startup Chemicals, Ozone, Deliver/Install, etc.
- Stereo Option $1200

J-470 ($10,000) - Includes Cover, Lift, Steps, Startup Chemicals, Ozone, Deliver/Install, etc.
- Stereo Option $800


Any help/advice would be appreciated.
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Stress_Relief on July 15, 2006, 02:07:43 pm
I have had the J-470 for a week and absolutely love it.  Don't know enough about the Sundance to comment.  However, I wouldn't base your choice on the aromatherapy.  I throw a little into the J-470 and it's magnificent.  The fit and finish of the Jacuzzi is impressive.  The filtration system seems amazing.  Good luck with your choice!
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Brookenstein on July 15, 2006, 03:02:36 pm
Hey, Stress Relief I'm confused earlier you said...
Quote
Thoughts about Jacuzzi Hot Tubs
« on: Jul 12th, 2006, 3:04pm »  Quote  Modify  

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I am interested in purchasing the Jacuzzi J-470.  Is anyone familiar with this new 50th Anniversary model?  Has anyone ever sold or repaired them?  Has anyone ever purchased one?  The spa looks beautiful.  Is the quality there?  Thanks so much for your thoughts!


And then today you post that you have had your tub for a week.  3 days ago you hadn't purchased it and today you've had it a week?  I could see not being exact on the days, but if you looked 3 days ago, even if they had it in stock I'd be surprised if you had the site prepped, the electrical, and the tub delivered by now.  

Quote
I have had the J-470 for a week and absolutely love it.  Don't know enough about the Sundance to comment.  However, I wouldn't base your choice on the aromatherapy.  I throw a little into the J-470 and it's magnificent.  The fit and finish of the Jacuzzi is impressive.  The filtration system seems amazing.  Good luck with your choice!


I apologize in advance if I'm reading too much into this, BUT we really like people to be honest and straightforward here.  No need to lie about who you are (i.e. dealer vs consumer) and what you have or sell.  And if you are going to lie, you might want to cover your tracks a little better.
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: BK on July 15, 2006, 04:17:47 pm
We have an 06 Optima. I see no value in the air blower/aromatherapy system. The tub is a real winner, second to none, despite the parochial ravings of HS dealers, but the air blower system is something you should place no value on in my opinion. I didn't and I'm satisfied.
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Stress_Relief on July 15, 2006, 04:43:26 pm
Brookenstein,

While I appreciate your forensic abilities, this forum is about our thoughts and feeling about hot tubs.  I am enjoying my J-470 and it appears that you wish you were too.
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: wmccall on July 15, 2006, 07:49:56 pm
Quote
Brookenstein,

While I appreciate your forensic abilities, this forum is about our thoughts and feeling about hot tubs.  I am enjoying my J-470 and it appears that you wish you were too.



I think she asks a legitimate question. This forum works best when everyone is honest and straight forward. Are you just a new Jacuzzi owner, or another agenda?
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Brookenstein on July 15, 2006, 08:30:07 pm
My intention was for the information to be clarified that is all.  I didn't know if you had buyers remorse and was asking the information after you bought the tub, OR if you were a dealer new to the board just trying to get an idea of what we would say about the tub and Jacuzzi in general.  

For the record, I am in heaven in my 05 Hot Spring Envoy and it is the best hot tub for me.  No 470 envy on my end.

Quote
Brookenstein,

While I appreciate your forensic abilities, this forum is about our thoughts and feeling about hot tubs.  I am enjoying my J-470 and it appears that you wish you were too.

Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Stress_Relief on July 16, 2006, 10:34:46 am
If one is not envious, one needs not share that with others.

;D
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: vanduse1 on July 16, 2006, 03:49:23 pm
There still doesn't seem to be much opinion on my origional post.  Any help/guidance would be appreciated.  Especially on the price topic.  I mistyped and the Optima is actually 9900.  I still think both the prices seem high compared to others.  Thoughts?
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: hottubdan on July 16, 2006, 08:06:48 pm
Quote
If one is not envious, one needs not share that with others.

 ;D


Still haven't addressed Brook's question.  Hmmm.
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Stress_Relief on July 17, 2006, 08:14:23 pm
For those of you who have addressed the posted issue.  Thank you.   :)
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Wisoki on July 18, 2006, 10:43:58 am
Those prices are in line with what most pay. Either product will satisfy.

Quote
I need some help deciding between a new '06 Optima and '06 J-470. I have looked and researched both units and am now looking for some additional opinions. Does anyone have any strong opinions on the differences between the two? Has anyone experienced the Aromathearopy of the Sundance? That feature sounds appealing but I don't know how well it works and don't want that to be the basis of my decision if it is not worth it. I have drytested both units but have not wet tested either at this time.  

Also, here is the pricing I was quoted by my dealer on my first visit. I have not tired any negotiation at this point.  Please let me know what others have paid for these tubs.  

Optima ($9600) - Includes Cover, Lift, Startup Chemicals, Ozone, Deliver/Install, etc.
- Stereo Option $1200

J-470 ($10,000) - Includes Cover, Lift, Steps, Startup Chemicals, Ozone, Deliver/Install, etc.
- Stereo Option $800


Any help/advice would be appreciated.

Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: cappykat on July 18, 2006, 11:16:43 am
We looked at the J385 and Optima about a year ago...I believe the price we got was $8200 on the J385 and I think around $9,000 on the Optima.  So I'd say those prices are in line.

I support Brooks observation.  
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: tubbyB on July 18, 2006, 11:22:52 am
My wife loved the aromatherapy when we checked out the tub at the dealers. (We have'nt bought yet but have decided to purchase the '06 Optima)

It was not a factor in my decision, but that was only half of the final decision, so I guess it was a factor, but not to me and not as much as a full factor. Its a nice feature.

Good luck
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: hymbaw on July 18, 2006, 11:23:28 am
Way to call 'em out Brook!


"Honesty pays, but it doesn't seem to pay enough to suit some people"
                                 Kin Hubbard
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: cappykat on July 18, 2006, 05:31:24 pm
Ok, I re-read this thread and although this comment is going to have nothing to do with vanduse1's question-- I'm addressing the comments between Brook and Stress Relief.  I'm sticking my nose in something that I didn't start but can't help it.  Got to take up for Brook.

Stress Relief said:  
Quote
I am enjoying my J-470 and it appears that you wish you were too.

Brook simply said,
Quote
For the record, I am in heaven in my 05 Hot Spring Envoy and it is the best hot tub for me.  No 470 envy on my end..

Again from Stress Relief:  
Quote
If one is not envious, one needs not share that with others.

Excuse me....but I think Stress Relief brought up the "envy" question NOT Brooke.


Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Stress_Relief on July 18, 2006, 07:52:42 pm
Only Brooke utilized the word "envy."  I can understand, I own the J-470 and it's hot!  ;D
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: cappykat on July 18, 2006, 08:34:50 pm
Go soak!
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Stress_Relief on July 18, 2006, 09:28:13 pm
I'm just about to do that in my Jacuzzi.  Anyone have any thoughts about the new J-470? ;)
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Stress_Relief on July 19, 2006, 12:09:00 am
Chas, I am not representing Jacuzzi.  I am enjoying it!  Wondering what experiences others are having with same.  Or, is it more important to focus on ad hominem attacks of visitors who are only looking for others' thoughts about hot tubs? :-*
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: tubbyB on July 19, 2006, 09:36:21 am
Reasons why I did not choose the J-470

Edge of tub is narrow. (In friends tubs, we like to sit on the edge in the winter to cool down)

high back  - The sloped edge also looked difficult to sit on.

Jacuzzi logo in step & IX jet with lights - A little self indulgence on Jacuzzi's part  & Too much like Pimp My Ride.

Movable head rests - Even at the dealers show room, these were falling off their mounts and looked crappy.

Indentations for speakers - without the stereo option you were left with this ugly looking indentations in the tub by the head rests.

Look of Jets - It's crazy but they just didn't look as nice as the Optima though I am sure they work and feel the same.

No Aromatherapy - Wife liked that feature in the Optima
Filter design - I had heard (on this forum) it could be noisy with its floating tube design.
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: drewstar on July 19, 2006, 09:41:05 am
I've heard the control panels can be flakey.  ::)
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Stress_Relief on July 19, 2006, 09:43:51 am
Thanks so much for your thoughts.  I too wish that I could sit on the edge and the headrests easily fall off.  I am particularly impressed, though, with the filtration system.  I'm floating Bromine, as suggested on this forum, and the water always sparkles.  Again, thanks for taking the time to respond. ;)
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: drewstar on July 19, 2006, 09:49:06 am
Quote
Thanks so much for your thoughts.  I too wish that I could sit on the edge and the headrests easily fall off.  I am particularly impressed, though, with the filtration system.  I'm floating Bromine, as suggested on this forum, and the water always sparkles.  Again, thanks for taking the time to respond. ;)



What other tubs did you wet test before buying this tub?

You've mentioned the water quality several times. I'll bite...

Are you under the impression that other tubs have inferior filtration?    Having clean sparkingling water is great, but the fact is, (Despite some rather heated discussions on "exclusive" systems")  Just about all the major brands do not have any water problems.  It's kinda like saying; "Wow. My new Ford is great. The transmission is flakey, but the tires are exceptionaly round. "

Why did you choose this tub over other tubs?
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Stress_Relief on July 19, 2006, 10:18:02 am
Seemed to have a nice combination of therapy and entertainment.  For example, the D-1 spas seemed great for therapy, but lacked the aesthetic appeal of the J-470.  Several low-end spas (I'm being sensitive here) with pop-up flat-screen televisions just seemed cheap to me.  Honestly, I only wet tested the Jacuzzi.  I dry tested many others.  Thanks for your thoughts.
Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Wisoki on July 19, 2006, 10:44:19 am
Maybe you should look around a little more. There are plenty of "aroma therapy" options out there. In my not so humble opinion, having to unscrew two caps to get those short life beads in there is going to be something you do very little of. However, with products on the market like SpaZzaz, EsScents, InSparations, etc. you could get your Jacuzzi® spa and have your sales person throw in a few fragrences you like that cost less than SunScents and last longer than.

Quote
My wife loved the aromatherapy when we checked out the tub at the dealers. (We have'nt bought yet but have decided to purchase the '06 Optima)

It was not a factor in my decision, but that was only half of the final decision, so I guess it was a factor, but not to me and not as much as a full factor. Its a nice feature.

Good luck

Title: Re: Sundance Optima Vs. Jacuzzi J-470
Post by: Wisoki on July 19, 2006, 10:53:09 am
May I then suggest any spa in the 300 series. All of which perform as well as the 400 series, with out the high flow circulation pump and can most likely be had at a lower expense than the Optima. The dynamic look of the 470 and 480 Isn't for everyone, neither is the cost of the 300 series. 200 series, for the price concious that wants Jacuzzi® 300 Series for those that like a little more than the basics and the 400 luxury sieries for those that want only the top of the line. Oh, and if your dealers filtration was making noise, his tub was underfilled!

Quote
Reasons why I did not choose the J-470

Edge of tub is narrow. (In friends tubs, we like to sit on the edge in the winter to cool down)

high back  - The sloped edge also looked difficult to sit on.

Jacuzzi logo in step & IX jet with lights - A little self indulgence on Jacuzzi's part  & Too much like Pimp My Ride.

Movable head rests - Even at the dealers show room, these were falling off their mounts and looked crappy.

Indentations for speakers - without the stereo option you were left with this ugly looking indentations in the tub by the head rests.

Look of Jets - It's crazy but they just didn't look as nice as the Optima though I am sure they work and feel the same.

No Aromatherapy - Wife liked that feature in the Optima
Filter design - I had heard (on this forum) it could be noisy with its floating tube design.