BooYahDad

I recently paid $9750 for a 2011 Optima, with cover, cover lifter, start up kit (+ extra Nature2 chems), upgraded steps (that match the cabinet - not the plastic ones), and of course delivery & setup. It was a floor model, but had only been on the floor for 2 weeks. The dealer would have included the ozone, but recommended against it as it has a shorter life than the tub and requires constant releasing of gas to protect cover. I don't know if that's because they highly recommended the Nature2 system? Also, the dealer said the stereo system was a waste of money and recommended against it. On a side note? LOVE the tub! The foot jets are awesome and the water-to-air ratio in the jets, as well as the customization options and hydrotherapy bubbles, make the experience. You'll be happy!!

I'm a newbie myself and recently purchased a Sundance Optima, which looks similar in configuration to the Hartford. In my research, Sundance seemed to be one of the top brands in the market and I never came across anything that put Caldera in that same category. The old 'you get what you pay for' adage is probably appropriate here and jutifies the additional expense of the Sundance. I don't know about the circ pump on the 680 series, but mine does have one at runs all the time. What also sold me was the % of water vs. air that comes through the jets. This seemed to eliminate some of the itchy feeling that can be associated with a higher % of air. But it's fully adjustable and I can add in air to increase pressure if I want, which is nice. Anyway, good luck!