marylandlynn

Yes, I researched on line and found 25+ manufacturers. The problem is they all are not available everywhere. It's not like shopping for a car where dealerships for every make of car abound, and often right next to each other. I would have to travel out of state. Now, having said that I would still be interested in the brands you refer to. It could be worth a trip... Thanks for the clarification -- that's quite different to what I was told but does make more sense.

I investigated the products available in my area: Hot Springs, Sundance, Vita Spa, Coleman, and the Costco and Sam's Club variety. Sundance was the only other manufacturer in close running, quality wise. However, two things stood out: 1) I was told that the pump system cycles 4 times a day for cleaning purposes. It sounds like the spa is in use when it isn't. The Hot Springs spas have a separate small, quiet pump for cycling the water -- no noise! 2) The fit and finish on the Hot Springs just appeared finer. Thank you for your input.

I'm looking for advice/observations concerning the Hot Springs Prodigy, Sovereign, and Vanguard spas. Regarding the Prodigy, I only need accomodations for 4 adults so this fits the bill but I am concerned about possibly suffering buyer's remorse by buying small. (Is this a valid concern?) The foot well area of the Prodigy is also relatively small and there aren't any jets on the bottom. (Is this a valid concern?) However, I like the $6.4K price tag. The next one up pricewise is the Sovereign which has a lounge which I don't think I'm too keen on. It takes up a lot of space, has no jets for the leg area, and probably won't be of use to me as I am short. However, it is larger than the Prodigy. The quoted price is $7.5K. The Vanguard is spacious, no lounge, a very nice spa indeed. I guess the only thing I don't like is the price: $8.5K. Finally, are all colors created equally or do some hold up better than others? How about those prices? Any information would be much appreciated. (And yes, I do plan on doing wet tests but I'd still like some outside input.)