Omi

Hello I am looking to purchase my first spa and I have been scouring the internet trying to get as much knowledge as I can. I have not been able to find a lot of answers so far. How would you guys compare the Marquis and Coast spa brands? I have looked at many companies and these two seem to be interesting me the most. I looked at Hot Springs spas and they seemed nice but just a bit overpriced. Caldera, jacuzzi, and some others just seemed lacking in technology and innovation (please correct me if I am wrong). They just seemed pretty plain jane and cheap. For example the Jacuzzi dealer was pretty disappointing. All she kept telling me basically was how Jacuzzi was the first and oldest brand... I was like thats great but it doesnt look like its changed from the hot tub my parents had 20 years ago. I asked about an options list and the lady said o you can get a radio...was very disappointed and felt like they were cheap and lacking in technology. The 2 brands I liked have multiple options of water filtration and cleansers and just on and on and on of all the different options you can get. Things I am looking for in my spa is the best in Jet technology and high number of jets. I want the best massage from the highest quality jets (I do not want to be ichy after spending 30 minutes in my spa). I want one lounger, after that I just want it to hold about 5 people so I can have friends over and entertain in it. I am also wanting innovation...I dont want a hottub thats still using the same antiquated technology of 15 or 20 years ago like some of these brands seem to be doing. I like being able to choose lots of options. My main desire is the best in relaxation and massages. However, looks and ambience are factors as well. Marquis was the first spa I fell in love with at a local dealer. They are beautiful, seem hightech, and high quality. Unfortunately the one I fell in love with the Epic model is a bit above my price range that I wanted. It starts at about $12k and I wanted my budget to be around $10k. Coast spas were the first I fell in love with on the internet. They look like they have the latest and greatest technology above and beyond most other spas. Their innovation, design, and styling are also impressive. Unfortunately there is only one dealer in my entire state and that dealer did not have a single model on his floor when I went to take a look at them. Of course he can order whatever I want but I was really frustrated because if I am going to spend $10k I want to see what I am buying first. $10k is a lot of money for me to buy something sight unseen. Still as I said the coast spas seem beautiful and luxurious (atleast from their website). A final question I have is does anyone know about the Microsilk technology? Both of these brands offer it and while it may be all smoke and mirrors I am amazed by its therapeautic potential/claims. The problem I have is, with both brands, if you are to get the Microsilk added on to one of their spas you take a big hit in Jet count. You lose as many as 18 jets which seems like a lot to lose. So I am curious if anyone knows anything about it and if its worth it. I would really like to have the feature but I am not sure its worth losing so many jets. I appreciate any information you guys can provide. I am open to any and all suggestions. I am definitely a newbie in this area but I am trying to learn and trying to get the best spa for my budget. thank you.