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We're looking at two models, the D1 Californian and the Sundance Cameo(or Optima). I'm choosing these two due to the presence of local dealers, as I'm sure other brands are good also-We've wet tested the D1 and will test the Sundance soon. One question is the actual capacity of the tub-the D1 lists 350 gallons in the spec, but the Sundance is listed at 450 gallons, which is a pretty big difference. However, the manual for the Sundance lists 370 gallons as the average capacity(for chemical purposes). The Sundance seems a bit deeper, but that doesn't explain the difference.I never totally trust the stated gallons on spa websites. I've seen the same spa go unchanged from 1 year to the next but all of a sudden the next year it somehow is spec'd to hold an additional 50 or 75 gallons on the website/brochure. I'd ignore this part.Some observations: The Sundance is a little "nicer"-possibly because of the acrylic shell. I know this is a dead horse, but it strikes me that the acrylic is more likely to craze than the "ultralife". What is the difference in backing(of the OAS or acrylic) between the two. The "lifetime" guarantee on the D1 is attractive(even though I know you have to ship the whole thing back-still its better than nothing). Sue, the Sundance may be apt to craze more (which is totally aesthetic so I wouldn't give it much thought). While I think they're pretty even overall I'd probably take a 10 year full shell warranty over a "lifetime" warranty that states after year 7 I may have to send it back. In reality I'd ignore shells other than maybe if you like a certain color that the other doesn't carry.The water effects on the D1 are a little cheesy-the waterfall is better on the Sundance, even though both are gimmicks. AgreeThe filter assembly on the Sundance is a bit of an eyesore-what is the advantage? None, I'd ask about getting a normal filter rather than the very costly disposable one designed to sell you a filter far too often.Two speed pumps on the D1-is that a practical advantage? Not to me.The SS handles are nice on the Sundance, gives it a classy feel. Eye of the beholder.The D1 dealer seems like they will be more helpful-are will to do a site inspection without any order. Your feel for how much the dealer will be there after the sale is important.The Sundance has open cell foam insulation(accorrding to the dealer), mostly. I thought this was a bad thing(can get soaked with a leak-I don't think the R-value is much different). Both are full foamed in a very similar way which is good IMO.D1 is priced at 9600(with lights, etc), Sundance at 10400, both with lifter cover, steps, delivery, chemicals, etc. How much does that price difference mean to you over the 10, 12, 15 years you hopefully will own it?I'm not interested in ripping either brand, they both seem pretty good, just finding out all of the differences, so when we wet test both again, we'll know what to look for. Get to wet testing, that will tell you a lot.I'm suspecting the operating costs will be similar depending on how much water the tubs actually hold-I live in CA so weather is generally mild. I suspect the same.
But the biggest thing i would check is the dealers you are working with, i like the idea of the presite, We also do this... in this time were customer service is key, it tells you who wants your business.. also check out the service after the sale and what they offer, do they hav a google places page with reviews, you might check them out.....
good point spatech, that will help you find the dealer to buy from,,,one thing that is also different is the ozone system, D1 has a 3 chamber u.v system, and it doesn't off gas in the main body of water.,,,
...but the price has to come down-how much negotiating is realistic?
3. Hot Springs. Good quality, better and stronger jets, overpriced. Not too enamored with the motorized jets though-seems like something that won't last. Dealer seemed OK, willing to do a presite without an order. What is the deal with the Watkins special subpanel? Got a quote for an Aria(with steps, lifter cover, delivery, subpanel, the usual chemicals, etc) for $10800, which although "discounted" from the ridiculous MSRP is pretty steep for a relatively small tub. Also liked the Limelight(lower end Hot Springs) flair for $7900. Wife's favorite brand. Her big issue was with jet strength and placement. We'd like to get the HS(Vista, Envoy , or Aria), but the price has to come down-how much negotiating is realistic?