need some first time advice!

[ratking20]

looking for a middle of the road tub.  i want a quality tub but dont need most of the bells and whistles. probably around 6 person with or without a lounge(not sure yet) heres what i am considering.....

> marquis e series
> artesian island series(or island elite) . not sure what the differences are exactly, any help?
> bullfrog R series

any others i should be considering( sundance? hot spring?)

obviously biggest thing is price. but problem is its impossible to find prices online? can anyone give me an idea to what these should cost???

features i want... led lights, stainless jets, fully insulated, strong frame, strong shell
features i dont need... wifi, stereo, waterfall
features i dont know yet.... not sure about sanitation or filtration features, multiple pumps and controls?

I have many close dealers here in brooklyn NY, but i do plan on wet testing a few if i can

any help would be great, especially with pricing?

[Spatech_tuo]

What you want is a quality spa from a quality spa maker. The good news is that every good spa maker makes premium, mid level and entry level models. They'll have spas with waterfalls, fancy lights... but also models where they take the bells & whistles out to meet a lower price point.

I'd suggest you go to the websites of all the top spa makers and use their dealer locator to see who is local to you. Arctic, Artesian, Bullfrog, Caldera, D1, Hot Spring, Jacuzzi, Marquis and Sundance are reputable spa makers that end up on many pro lists. You may find a couple if you're in a smaller area or maybe even all in your general area if you're in a major market.

[HT34]

I'm not sure what your budget is, but based on those 3 brands and looking at a "middle of the road" tub, then I would assume the bullfrog will be the most expensive.  No one can really give you a price because in one state X tub can be $10,000, while in a different state that same X tub is $8,500...you just have to call or go there in person and ask.  But I can give you an example of the middle of the road tubs from each brand and tell you what I got quoted for because I am cross-shopping these exact brands, and for the middle of the road tubs, too. 

These prices are with what I wanted added in as options and WITHOUT tax.  Most options I chose where the inline sanitation (if available), full foam, environments steps (Marquis only) and cover lift...no ozonator, stereo system, upgraded lighting etc. 

Marquis - Vector21 V84 ($7,900)
              e series 750 ($7,900)

Artesian - Island Captiva (not elite) ($8,200)
               South Seas 748B ($6,600)
               
Bullfrog - R6 ($9,300)
              R7 ($10,600)

I also prefer these 3 brands you are looking at to Sundance, Hot Springs, Jacuzzi, etc....just my opinion.  Also, of the 3 brands you are looking at, the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell compared to bullfrog.

[Sam]

I'm not sure what your budget is, but based on those 3 brands and looking at a "middle of the road" tub, then I would assume the bullfrog will be the most expensive.  No one can really give you a price because in one state X tub can be $10,000, while in a different state that same X tub is $8,500...you just have to call or go there in person and ask.  But I can give you an example of the middle of the road tubs from each brand and tell you what I got quoted for because I am cross-shopping these exact brands, and for the middle of the road tubs, too. 

These prices are with what I wanted added in as options and WITHOUT tax.  Most options I chose where the inline sanitation (if available), full foam, environments steps (Marquis only) and cover lift...no ozonator, stereo system, upgraded lighting etc. 

Marquis - Vector21 V84 ($7,900)
              e series 750 ($7,900)

Artesian - Island Captiva (not elite) ($8,200)
               South Seas 748B ($6,600)
               
Bullfrog - R6 ($9,300)
              R7 ($10,600)

I also prefer these 3 brands you are looking at to Sundance, Hot Springs, Jacuzzi, etc....just my opinion.  Also, of the 3 brands you are looking at, the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell compared to bullfrog.

Fyi, the captiva is available in quite a few jet configurations with a whole bunch of options so that price could be good or bad, depending on how many jets, if it has footblasters, even the warranty whether it's 3 years or 5 years.  There are even 4 different lighting options for example.  The 748B is a pretty good price and doesn't really have a lot of options.

[HT34]

Very true....i wasn't specific enough.  Our captiva is spec'd with no lighting package, standard footwell (52 jet) foot massage...not the blaster style and 3 year warrenty.  I believe even this series comes full foamed standard.

Sam does bring up a point with all of these certain lines.  That makes it even more complicated when it comes to pricing.

[Hottubguy]

I'm not sure what your budget is, but based on those 3 brands and looking at a "middle of the road" tub, then I would assume the bullfrog will be the most expensive.  No one can really give you a price because in one state X tub can be $10,000, while in a different state that same X tub is $8,500...you just have to call or go there in person and ask.  But I can give you an example of the middle of the road tubs from each brand and tell you what I got quoted for because I am cross-shopping these exact brands, and for the middle of the road tubs, too. 

These prices are with what I wanted added in as options and WITHOUT tax.  Most options I chose where the inline sanitation (if available), full foam, environments steps (Marquis only) and cover lift...no ozonator, stereo system, upgraded lighting etc. 

Marquis - Vector21 V84 ($7,900)
              e series 750 ($7,900)

Artesian - Island Captiva (not elite) ($8,200)
               South Seas 748B ($6,600)
               
Bullfrog - R6 ($9,300)
              R7 ($10,600)

I also prefer these 3 brands you are looking at to Sundance, Hot Springs, Jacuzzi, etc....just my opinion.  Also, of the 3 brands you are looking at, the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell compared to bullfrog.

Just for curiosity sake why do you think the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell then a BF?  I have only seen that mentioned on one other website before and the website has all kinds of inaccuracies on Marquis on it even though Marquis is one of his favorite tubs. I’m a Marquis dealer so I have no dog in the fight with Bullfrog. Just wondering why you feel that way

[HT34]

I'm not sure what your budget is, but based on those 3 brands and looking at a "middle of the road" tub, then I would assume the bullfrog will be the most expensive.  No one can really give you a price because in one state X tub can be $10,000, while in a different state that same X tub is $8,500...you just have to call or go there in person and ask.  But I can give you an example of the middle of the road tubs from each brand and tell you what I got quoted for because I am cross-shopping these exact brands, and for the middle of the road tubs, too. 

These prices are with what I wanted added in as options and WITHOUT tax.  Most options I chose where the inline sanitation (if available), full foam, environments steps (Marquis only) and cover lift...no ozonator, stereo system, upgraded lighting etc. 

Marquis - Vector21 V84 ($7,900)
              e series 750 ($7,900)

Artesian - Island Captiva (not elite) ($8,200)
               South Seas 748B ($6,600)
               
Bullfrog - R6 ($9,300)
              R7 ($10,600)

I also prefer these 3 brands you are looking at to Sundance, Hot Springs, Jacuzzi, etc....just my opinion.  Also, of the 3 brands you are looking at, the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell compared to bullfrog.

Just for curiosity sake why do you think the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell then a BF?  I have only seen that mentioned on one other website before and the website has all kinds of inaccuracies on Marquis on it even though Marquis is one of his favorite tubs. I’m a Marquis dealer so I have no dog in the fight with Bullfrog. Just wondering why you feel that way

It's self supporting, where the bullfrog has supports.  It's that simple.  It's like anything, if something needs supports it doesn't have enough of strength to support what is going in/on it.  Especially for a hot tub, i want the strongest i can get.  A hot tub with water and 4-6 adults is going to be easily over 2 tons.  I don't know for a FACT which one will outlast which, but in theory something self supported vs supported seems better built...yes/no?  Maybe I'm wrong?  Again my opinion.

I will be honest...i all but eliminated bullfrog from my list.  I think it is a good tub, no doubt.  But WAY overpriced.  I have seen inside all 3 of these companies tubs, and i honestly think the artesian and marquis are hands down a better tub....period.

Who are you referring to in your post that you heard this from before?

I have been to jacuzzi, sundance, caldera and hot springs dealers, too.  Again, some nice tubs, but WAY overpriced.  I don't work for anyone or am biased towards any company.  I am looking to buy soon and have been shopping hardcore the past couple of months and just sharing my opinion on what i think of these companies.  It's just like buying a car....but harder.

[ratking20]

thanks for all the info.  hottubguy> which model are you leaning towards.  i am in the very beginning of my search and am in no hurry at all. but the one that stands out to me as a must try right now is the artesian island series. just from a price, features, and review standpoint.  hopefully i get to try out many. how do u feel on the stainless jets? do these models come standard with them, do u think they are worth the upgrade?

[Tman122]

I'm not sure what your budget is, but based on those 3 brands and looking at a "middle of the road" tub, then I would assume the bullfrog will be the most expensive.  No one can really give you a price because in one state X tub can be $10,000, while in a different state that same X tub is $8,500...you just have to call or go there in person and ask.  But I can give you an example of the middle of the road tubs from each brand and tell you what I got quoted for because I am cross-shopping these exact brands, and for the middle of the road tubs, too. 

These prices are with what I wanted added in as options and WITHOUT tax.  Most options I chose where the inline sanitation (if available), full foam, environments steps (Marquis only) and cover lift...no ozonator, stereo system, upgraded lighting etc. 

Marquis - Vector21 V84 ($7,900)
              e series 750 ($7,900)

Artesian - Island Captiva (not elite) ($8,200)
               South Seas 748B ($6,600)
               
Bullfrog - R6 ($9,300)
              R7 ($10,600)

I also prefer these 3 brands you are looking at to Sundance, Hot Springs, Jacuzzi, etc....just my opinion.  Also, of the 3 brands you are looking at, the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell compared to bullfrog.

Just for curiosity sake why do you think the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell then a BF?  I have only seen that mentioned on one other website before and the website has all kinds of inaccuracies on Marquis on it even though Marquis is one of his favorite tubs. I’m a Marquis dealer so I have no dog in the fight with Bullfrog. Just wondering why you feel that way

It's self supporting, where the bullfrog has supports.  It's that simple.  It's like anything, if something needs supports it doesn't have enough of strength to support what is going in/on it.  Especially for a hot tub, i want the strongest i can get.  A hot tub with water and 4-6 adults is going to be easily over 2 tons.  I don't know for a FACT which one will outlast which, but in theory something self supported vs supported seems better built...yes/no?  Maybe I'm wrong?  Again my opinion.

I will be honest...i all but eliminated bullfrog from my list.  I think it is a good tub, no doubt.  But WAY overpriced.  I have seen inside all 3 of these companies tubs, and i honestly think the artesian and marquis are hands down a better tub....period.

Who are you referring to in your post that you heard this from before?

I have been to jacuzzi, sundance, caldera and hot springs dealers, too.  Again, some nice tubs, but WAY overpriced.  I don't work for anyone or am biased towards any company.  I am looking to buy soon and have been shopping hardcore the past couple of months and just sharing my opinion on what i think of these companies.  It's just like buying a car....but harder.

If brand a has a self supporting shell and brand b doesn't yet both have a lifetime warranty on the shell is one better than the other?

[HT34]

I'm not sure what your budget is, but based on those 3 brands and looking at a "middle of the road" tub, then I would assume the bullfrog will be the most expensive.  No one can really give you a price because in one state X tub can be $10,000, while in a different state that same X tub is $8,500...you just have to call or go there in person and ask.  But I can give you an example of the middle of the road tubs from each brand and tell you what I got quoted for because I am cross-shopping these exact brands, and for the middle of the road tubs, too. 

These prices are with what I wanted added in as options and WITHOUT tax.  Most options I chose where the inline sanitation (if available), full foam, environments steps (Marquis only) and cover lift...no ozonator, stereo system, upgraded lighting etc. 

Marquis - Vector21 V84 ($7,900)
              e series 750 ($7,900)

Artesian - Island Captiva (not elite) ($8,200)
               South Seas 748B ($6,600)
               
Bullfrog - R6 ($9,300)
              R7 ($10,600)

I also prefer these 3 brands you are looking at to Sundance, Hot Springs, Jacuzzi, etc....just my opinion.  Also, of the 3 brands you are looking at, the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell compared to bullfrog.

Just for curiosity sake why do you think the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell then a BF?  I have only seen that mentioned on one other website before and the website has all kinds of inaccuracies on Marquis on it even though Marquis is one of his favorite tubs. I’m a Marquis dealer so I have no dog in the fight with Bullfrog. Just wondering why you feel that way

It's self supporting, where the bullfrog has supports.  It's that simple.  It's like anything, if something needs supports it doesn't have enough of strength to support what is going in/on it.  Especially for a hot tub, i want the strongest i can get.  A hot tub with water and 4-6 adults is going to be easily over 2 tons.  I don't know for a FACT which one will outlast which, but in theory something self supported vs supported seems better built...yes/no?  Maybe I'm wrong?  Again my opinion.

I will be honest...i all but eliminated bullfrog from my list.  I think it is a good tub, no doubt.  But WAY overpriced.  I have seen inside all 3 of these companies tubs, and i honestly think the artesian and marquis are hands down a better tub....period.

Who are you referring to in your post that you heard this from before?

I have been to jacuzzi, sundance, caldera and hot springs dealers, too.  Again, some nice tubs, but WAY overpriced.  I don't work for anyone or am biased towards any company.  I am looking to buy soon and have been shopping hardcore the past couple of months and just sharing my opinion on what i think of these companies.  It's just like buying a car....but harder.

If brand a has a self supporting shell and brand b doesn't yet both have a lifetime warranty on the shell is one better than the other?

Yes, again IMO, brand A has a better shell.  For the end user it won't be relevant because of the warranty.  However, if something happens to the shell, then the user has a headache on their hands. 

Why don't we all agree to disagree and not hijack the OP's thread.

[Hottubguy]

thanks for all the info.  hottubguy> which model are you leaning towards.  i am in the very beginning of my search and am in no hurry at all. but the one that stands out to me as a must try right now is the artesian island series. just from a price, features, and review standpoint.  hopefully i get to try out many. how do u feel on the stainless jets? do these models come standard with them, do u think they are worth the upgrade?

I own a Marquis and sell Marquis, Caldera and Nordic. I don’t have much knowledge of Artesian. Not a big presence in my area but generally have heard good things about them

[Hottubguy]

I'm not sure what your budget is, but based on those 3 brands and looking at a "middle of the road" tub, then I would assume the bullfrog will be the most expensive.  No one can really give you a price because in one state X tub can be $10,000, while in a different state that same X tub is $8,500...you just have to call or go there in person and ask.  But I can give you an example of the middle of the road tubs from each brand and tell you what I got quoted for because I am cross-shopping these exact brands, and for the middle of the road tubs, too. 

These prices are with what I wanted added in as options and WITHOUT tax.  Most options I chose where the inline sanitation (if available), full foam, environments steps (Marquis only) and cover lift...no ozonator, stereo system, upgraded lighting etc. 

Marquis - Vector21 V84 ($7,900)
              e series 750 ($7,900)

Artesian - Island Captiva (not elite) ($8,200)
               South Seas 748B ($6,600)
               
Bullfrog - R6 ($9,300)
              R7 ($10,600)

I also prefer these 3 brands you are looking at to Sundance, Hot Springs, Jacuzzi, etc....just my opinion.  Also, of the 3 brands you are looking at, the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell compared to bullfrog.

Just for curiosity sake why do you think the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell then a BF?  I have only seen that mentioned on one other website before and the website has all kinds of inaccuracies on Marquis on it even though Marquis is one of his favorite tubs. I’m a Marquis dealer so I have no dog in the fight with Bullfrog. Just wondering why you feel that way

It's self supporting, where the bullfrog has supports.  It's that simple.  It's like anything, if something needs supports it doesn't have enough of strength to support what is going in/on it.  Especially for a hot tub, i want the strongest i can get.  A hot tub with water and 4-6 adults is going to be easily over 2 tons.  I don't know for a FACT which one will outlast which, but in theory something self supported vs supported seems better built...yes/no?  Maybe I'm wrong?  Again my opinion.

I will be honest...i all but eliminated bullfrog from my list.  I think it is a good tub, no doubt.  But WAY overpriced.  I have seen inside all 3 of these companies tubs, and i honestly think the artesian and marquis are hands down a better tub....period.

Who are you referring to in your post that you heard this from before?

I have been to jacuzzi, sundance, caldera and hot springs dealers, too.  Again, some nice tubs, but WAY overpriced.  I don't work for anyone or am biased towards any company.  I am looking to buy soon and have been shopping hardcore the past couple of months and just sharing my opinion on what i think of these companies.  It's just like buying a car....but harder.

The BF prices you posted are inline with what most sell those tubs for. The Marquis especially with those options are ridiculously cheap. Being where you are at the beginning stage the E750 won’t be around when you are ready to buy. I believe the last day to order that tub is August 20th. I’m easily in the R series price point on the vector. Looks like you have found a couple tubs that will work out for you.

There is a website that is sort of like a forum up in Canada with almost your exact words as the reason why he doesn’t like BF. Good luck in your search

[ratking20]

ht34 what tub are you leaning towards purchasing? 

[HT34]

I'm not sure what your budget is, but based on those 3 brands and looking at a "middle of the road" tub, then I would assume the bullfrog will be the most expensive.  No one can really give you a price because in one state X tub can be $10,000, while in a different state that same X tub is $8,500...you just have to call or go there in person and ask.  But I can give you an example of the middle of the road tubs from each brand and tell you what I got quoted for because I am cross-shopping these exact brands, and for the middle of the road tubs, too. 

These prices are with what I wanted added in as options and WITHOUT tax.  Most options I chose where the inline sanitation (if available), full foam, environments steps (Marquis only) and cover lift...no ozonator, stereo system, upgraded lighting etc. 

Marquis - Vector21 V84 ($7,900)
              e series 750 ($7,900)

Artesian - Island Captiva (not elite) ($8,200)
               South Seas 748B ($6,600)
               
Bullfrog - R6 ($9,300)
              R7 ($10,600)

I also prefer these 3 brands you are looking at to Sundance, Hot Springs, Jacuzzi, etc....just my opinion.  Also, of the 3 brands you are looking at, the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell compared to bullfrog.

Just for curiosity sake why do you think the Marquis and Artesian will have a stronger shell then a BF?  I have only seen that mentioned on one other website before and the website has all kinds of inaccuracies on Marquis on it even though Marquis is one of his favorite tubs. I’m a Marquis dealer so I have no dog in the fight with Bullfrog. Just wondering why you feel that way

It's self supporting, where the bullfrog has supports.  It's that simple.  It's like anything, if something needs supports it doesn't have enough of strength to support what is going in/on it.  Especially for a hot tub, i want the strongest i can get.  A hot tub with water and 4-6 adults is going to be easily over 2 tons.  I don't know for a FACT which one will outlast which, but in theory something self supported vs supported seems better built...yes/no?  Maybe I'm wrong?  Again my opinion.

I will be honest...i all but eliminated bullfrog from my list.  I think it is a good tub, no doubt.  But WAY overpriced.  I have seen inside all 3 of these companies tubs, and i honestly think the artesian and marquis are hands down a better tub....period.

Who are you referring to in your post that you heard this from before?

I have been to jacuzzi, sundance, caldera and hot springs dealers, too.  Again, some nice tubs, but WAY overpriced.  I don't work for anyone or am biased towards any company.  I am looking to buy soon and have been shopping hardcore the past couple of months and just sharing my opinion on what i think of these companies.  It's just like buying a car....but harder.

The BF prices you posted are inline with what most sell those tubs for. The Marquis especially with those options are ridiculously cheap. Being where you are at the beginning stage the E750 won’t be around when you are ready to buy. I believe the last day to order that tub is August 20th. I’m easily in the R series price point on the vector. Looks like you have found a couple tubs that will work out for you.

There is a website that is sort of like a forum up in Canada with almost your exact words as the reason why he doesn’t like BF. Good luck in your search

You are correct.  The 750 is going.  I even think their website only has the 750 and 425 left.  Yes, i believe my dealer has some good prices.  That is why it is hard to give prices on here.

[HT34]

ht34 what tub are you leaning towards purchasing?

I really like the marquis v84, but my wife is on the fence because of the styling.  My dealer just ordered in a broadway elite...so i will check this out soon.  I really like the artesian captiva, too.  But, my dealer isn't great on communicating, so unfortunately it doesn't look too good for me having an artesian in my backyard.  I think i am going to end up with a vector or celebrity elite.