Old Joints Need Relief

[old bones]

My wife and I are getting to the point where we need a hot tub for arthritis relief and I've been researching ad nauseum. It's just the two of us so a nice 5x7 2-3 person spa would be ideal, but want one with 30-40 jets to get all the needed areas. There's one on Ebay that sounds great with 10-5-5 warranty but the guy won't tell you the manufacturer until you buy. Made in So Cal but that's it. Reads like the Mercedes of spas. Looked at Strong and Durasport and Stonewood as well as others. Anyone have any recommendations or know anything about the above mentioned companies? Would appreciate any help.

[spatech (the unreal one)]

My wife and I are getting to the point where we need a hot tub for arthritis relief and I've been researching ad nauseum. It's just the two of us so a nice 5x7 2-3 person spa would be ideal, but want one with 30-40 jets to get all the needed areas. There's one on Ebay that sounds great with 10-5-5 warranty but the guy won't tell you the manufacturer until you buy. Made in So Cal but that's it. Reads like the Mercedes of spas. Looked at Strong and Durasport and Stonewood as well as others. Anyone have any recommendations or know anything about the above mentioned companies? Would appreciate any help.

LOL, more like the Yugo of spas. They know how to make it sound like the spas are good but buying a hot tub on e-bay is like playing Russian Roulette with 5 bullets in the chamber.

They're typically very cheaply made (often from China, anywhere from poor to terrible quality) and that warranty is totally meaningless (unless that 10-5-5 is in days and then I might believe it, maybe). You'll probably just be ignored when the issues start and you try to call them for help and you can't exactly visit them to complain.

Very bad idea IMO and if you search this site fore-bay buyers you'll see others who've regretted that they fell in love with the price tag (you can't compare these to well made spas) and talked themselves into thinking they were getting a decent product for a good price. If it seems too good to be true...

[castletonia]

My wife and I are getting to the point where we need a hot tub for arthritis relief and I've been researching ad nauseum. It's just the two of us so a nice 5x7 2-3 person spa would be ideal, but want one with 30-40 jets to get all the needed areas. There's one on Ebay that sounds great with 10-5-5 warranty but the guy won't tell you the manufacturer until you buy. Made in So Cal but that's it. Reads like the Mercedes of spas. Looked at Strong and Durasport and Stonewood as well as others. Anyone have any recommendations or know anything about the above mentioned companies? Would appreciate any help.

If you are not allowed to know who makes it then walk away. Never heard of Durasport or Stonewood. Never really came across Strong as no one around me sells them but I think they are a decent economical option. Not sure what your local options are but Clearwater has a small tub the XS76R Signature that has a lot of jets. Likely a bit pricey for a small spa but what I would consider a good option if a lot of jets are a must.

[Jospher]

My wife and I are getting to the point where we need a hot tub for arthritis relief and I've been researching ad nauseum. It's just the two of us so a nice 5x7 2-3 person spa would be ideal, but want one with 30-40 jets to get all the needed areas. There's one on Ebay that sounds great with 10-5-5 warranty but the guy won't tell you the manufacturer until you buy. Made in So Cal but that's it. Reads like the Mercedes of spas. Looked at Strong and Durasport and Stonewood as well as others. Anyone have any recommendations or know anything about the above mentioned companies? Would appreciate any help.

If you are not allowed to know who makes it then walk away. Never heard of Durasport or Stonewood. Never really came across Strong as no one around me sells them but I think they are a decent economical option. Not sure what your local options are but Clearwater has a small tub the XS76R Signature that has a lot of jets. Likely a bit pricey for a small spa but what I would consider a good option if a lot of jets are a must.

[Jospher]

Had the Clearwater xs84nl signature spa for 5 weeks and so far couldn't be happier. Fits 5-6 very comfortable. Has 40 jets 2- 3.0 h.p. pumps and 1-24 hour circulating pump. Very reasonable priced. There are more then enough quality tubs out there. Just make sure without a doubt purchase the tub from a reputable local dealer that services that make. It may cost a little more by will by far be worth it in the long run. Peace of mind is priceless.Good luck an let us know how you make out.

[DK117]

My wife and I are getting to the point where we need a hot tub for arthritis relief and I've been researching ad nauseum. It's just the two of us so a nice 5x7 2-3 person spa would be ideal, but want one with 30-40 jets to get all the needed areas. There's one on Ebay that sounds great with 10-5-5 warranty but the guy won't tell you the manufacturer until you buy. Made in So Cal but that's it. Reads like the Mercedes of spas. Looked at Strong and Durasport and Stonewood as well as others. Anyone have any recommendations or know anything about the above mentioned companies? Would appreciate any help.

LOL, more like the Yugo of spas. They know how to make it sound like the spas are good but buying a hot tub on e-bay is like playing Russian Roulette with 5 bullets in the chamber.

They're typically very cheaply made (often from China, anywhere from poor to terrible quality) and that warranty is totally meaningless (unless that 10-5-5 is in days and then I might believe it, maybe). You'll probably just be ignored when the issues start and you try to call them for help and you can't exactly visit them to complain.

Very bad idea IMO and if you search this site fore-bay buyers you'll see others who've regretted that they fell in love with the price tag (you can't compare these to well made spas) and talked themselves into thinking they were getting a decent product for a good price. If it seems too good to be true...

I totally agree with Spatech. I'd add that Strong is made domestically and you always have the Costco return policy. To me that mitigates the eBAY effect.

DK117

Let's see if this comment can just be accepted for face value vs starting another Costco bashing thread. Please do read up on those and form your own opinion.

[old bones]

My wife and I are getting to the point where we need a hot tub for arthritis relief and I've been researching ad nauseum. It's just the two of us so a nice 5x7 2-3 person spa would be ideal, but want one with 30-40 jets to get all the needed areas. There's one on Ebay that sounds great with 10-5-5 warranty but the guy won't tell you the manufacturer until you buy. Made in So Cal but that's it. Reads like the Mercedes of spas. Looked at Strong and Durasport and Stonewood as well as others. Anyone have any recommendations or know anything about the above mentioned companies? Would appreciate any help.

LOL, more like the Yugo of spas. They know how to make it sound like the spas are good but buying a hot tub on e-bay is like playing Russian Roulette with 5 bullets in the chamber.

They're typically very cheaply made (often from China, anywhere from poor to terrible quality) and that warranty is totally meaningless (unless that 10-5-5 is in days and then I might believe it, maybe). You'll probably just be ignored when the issues start and you try to call them for help and you can't exactly visit them to complain.

Very bad idea IMO and if you search this site fore-bay buyers you'll see others who've regretted that they fell in love with the price tag (you can't compare these to well made spas) and talked themselves into thinking they were getting a decent product for a good price. If it seems too good to be true...

I totally agree with Spatech. I'd add that Strong is made domestically and you always have the Costco return policy. To me that mitigates the eBAY effect.

DK117

Let's see if this comment can just be accepted for face value vs starting another Costco bashing thread. Please do read up on those and form your own opinion.

Thanks for the advice, and I buy a lot at Costco, once I've shopped around. Costco is a great place but they do get last years models quite often, or models that don't sell well that the manufacturer wants to offload. But still a great place to save.

So, thanks for the heads up on ebay. I buy and sell a lot of stuff (electronics, golf clubs etc) but they're small ticket items. Even the feedback from these spa sellers reads like they're the best people on earth to deal with. Warranties tell me a lot about manufacturers too. If there's only a 1 or 2 year on parts, with no labor, that says they don't have much confidence in the materials they've used. 5 years says they do. I'll stop looking on ebay and check my local dealers ( I live in the San Jose, Ca. area).

What do you think about dealers with refurbished spas? I don't have deep pockets and have about a $4k budget.

Again, thanks to all who have replied. Really appreciate it.

[old bones]

My wife and I are getting to the point where we need a hot tub for arthritis relief and I've been researching ad nauseum. It's just the two of us so a nice 5x7 2-3 person spa would be ideal, but want one with 30-40 jets to get all the needed areas. There's one on Ebay that sounds great with 10-5-5 warranty but the guy won't tell you the manufacturer until you buy. Made in So Cal but that's it. Reads like the Mercedes of spas. Looked at Strong and Durasport and Stonewood as well as others. Anyone have any recommendations or know anything about the above mentioned companies? Would appreciate any help.

LOL, more like the Yugo of spas. They know how to make it sound like the spas are good but buying a hot tub on e-bay is like playing Russian Roulette with 5 bullets in the chamber.

They're typically very cheaply made (often from China, anywhere from poor to terrible quality) and that warranty is totally meaningless (unless that 10-5-5 is in days and then I might believe it, maybe). You'll probably just be ignored when the issues start and you try to call them for help and you can't exactly visit them to complain.

Very bad idea IMO and if you search this site fore-bay buyers you'll see others who've regretted that they fell in love with the price tag (you can't compare these to well made spas) and talked themselves into thinking they were getting a decent product for a good price. If it seems too good to be true...

FYI, on Ebay you'll find "Spaguyspas" and "arthog" as the call names for these spa dealers. Supposedly made in USA by "Major" manufacturer. Check them out. Arthog's spas are only listed for 1 day, then he loads them up again. His listing takes about 20 minutes to read. Tons of info that makes it sound like the best spa in the world. Feedback is 100% of course and all his buyers rave about him.

Just wanted to get your take once you looked at the listing. Again, thanks for the help.

Looked at a Clearwater X76R that is exactly what I'm looking for. No local dealer so had to write for a quote. Why is it that alot of these companies either don't put warranty info on the site or make it so hard to find? Wierd.

[DK117]

My wife and I are getting to the point where we need a hot tub for arthritis relief and I've been researching ad nauseum. It's just the two of us so a nice 5x7 2-3 person spa would be ideal, but want one with 30-40 jets to get all the needed areas. There's one on Ebay that sounds great with 10-5-5 warranty but the guy won't tell you the manufacturer until you buy. Made in So Cal but that's it. Reads like the Mercedes of spas. Looked at Strong and Durasport and Stonewood as well as others. Anyone have any recommendations or know anything about the above mentioned companies? Would appreciate any help.

LOL, more like the Yugo of spas. They know how to make it sound like the spas are good but buying a hot tub on e-bay is like playing Russian Roulette with 5 bullets in the chamber.

They're typically very cheaply made (often from China, anywhere from poor to terrible quality) and that warranty is totally meaningless (unless that 10-5-5 is in days and then I might believe it, maybe). You'll probably just be ignored when the issues start and you try to call them for help and you can't exactly visit them to complain.

Very bad idea IMO and if you search this site fore-bay buyers you'll see others who've regretted that they fell in love with the price tag (you can't compare these to well made spas) and talked themselves into thinking they were getting a decent product for a good price. If it seems too good to be true...

FYI, on Ebay you'll find "Spaguyspas" and "arthog" as the call names for these spa dealers. Supposedly made in USA by "Major" manufacturer. Check them out. Arthog's spas are only listed for 1 day, then he loads them up again. His listing takes about 20 minutes to read. Tons of info that makes it sound like the best spa in the world. Feedback is 100% of course and all his buyers rave about him.

Just wanted to get your take once you looked at the listing. Again, thanks for the help.

Looked at a Clearwater X76R that is exactly what I'm looking for. No local dealer so had to write for a quote. Why is it that alot of these companies either don't put warranty info on the site or make it so hard to find? Wierd.

here's the first thing I saw on his post. Returns: No Returns Accepted

I'd check out used tubs from a local dealer, craiglist, and the Evolution(Strong) Mediterranean.

Over $100 on eBAY scares me.

DK117

[old bones]

My wife and I are getting to the point where we need a hot tub for arthritis relief and I've been researching ad nauseum. It's just the two of us so a nice 5x7 2-3 person spa would be ideal, but want one with 30-40 jets to get all the needed areas. There's one on Ebay that sounds great with 10-5-5 warranty but the guy won't tell you the manufacturer until you buy. Made in So Cal but that's it. Reads like the Mercedes of spas. Looked at Strong and Durasport and Stonewood as well as others. Anyone have any recommendations or know anything about the above mentioned companies? Would appreciate any help.

LOL, more like the Yugo of spas. They know how to make it sound like the spas are good but buying a hot tub on e-bay is like playing Russian Roulette with 5 bullets in the chamber.

They're typically very cheaply made (often from China, anywhere from poor to terrible quality) and that warranty is totally meaningless (unless that 10-5-5 is in days and then I might believe it, maybe). You'll probably just be ignored when the issues start and you try to call them for help and you can't exactly visit them to complain.

Very bad idea IMO and if you search this site fore-bay buyers you'll see others who've regretted that they fell in love with the price tag (you can't compare these to well made spas) and talked themselves into thinking they were getting a decent product for a good price. If it seems too good to be true...

Hey Spatech,

Just saw what looks like a great deal at Costco on an OC (Cal spa?) 3 person tub. $3000 delivered. 36 jets, one 6hp pump, ozonator. I don't hear alot of nice things about Cal Spa so any input on your end? Warranty fair but not great.

[THE SPA GUY]

old bones,

Spatech is right on with that company, But i would also look at D1,Sundance, Jacuzzi,Hot Springs, Marquis, on the short list, I know Costco sounds like a good deal, i don't want to turn this into the costco good or bad. IMO i am not a fan of buying larger products like mowers, tubs, compressors etc. i want to be able to have someone to service under warranty or out of warranty and by someone who knows what they are doing. again this is my opinion....good luck on the hunt......

The Spa Guy

[spatech (the unreal one)]

If there's only a 1 or 2 year on parts, with no labor, that says they don't have much confidence in the materials they've used. 5 years says they do.

This is a mistake a lot of people make, its totally untrue. Length of warranty is typically NOT a reflection on manufacturer confidence of product or quality of parts. Warranties are not free, they are included in (factored into) the price. One reason a spa may have a shorter warranty versus another from the same maker is to keep the price down.

For instance, you'll see Jacuzzi, Hot Spring, Sundance have longer warranties on their top of the line models versus their mid-line models but it's because you're paying for the longer warranty on the top of the line models. When you see their entry line models with even less warranty its to make the price more affordable. Warranties have a direct cost to the manufacturer and those that truly honor their warranties have to account for that in their pricing.

You see these e-bay spas with long warranties because they aren't going to honor them anyway so they can say whatever they want. They avoid making it too ridiculous (like saying 25 years) because you'll smell a rat if they do that so they make them equivalent to premium spa makers warranties (like the 10-5-5 in this thread) rather than 1 or 2 years which is fairly common for entry priced spas because its all the same in the end to them when they ignore your requests anyway.

[old bones]

If there's only a 1 or 2 year on parts, with no labor, that says they don't have much confidence in the materials they've used. 5 years says they do.

This is a mistake a lot of people make, its totally untrue. Length of warranty is typically NOT a reflection on manufacturer confidence of product or quality of parts. Warranties are not free, they are included in (factored into) the price. One reason a spa may have a shorter warranty versus another from the same maker is to keep the price down.

For instance, you'll see Jacuzzi, Hot Spring, Sundance have longer warranties on their top of the line models versus their mid-line models but it's because you're paying for the longer warranty on the top of the line models. When you see their entry line models with even less warranty its to make the price more affordable. Warranties have a direct cost to the manufacturer and those that truly honor their warranties have to account for that in their pricing.

You see these e-bay spas with long warranties because they aren't going to honor them anyway so they can say whatever they want. They avoid making it too ridiculous (like saying 25 years) because you'll smell a rat if they do that so they make them equivalent to premium spa makers warranties (like the 10-5-5 in this thread) rather than 1 or 2 years which is fairly common for entry priced spas because its all the same in the end to them when they ignore your requests anyway.

Hey Spatech,

That sounds reasonable. Do they offer extended warranties? Probably I would guess. One advantage Costco though, it breaks, just take it back and get a refund. Did that with my grandson's 3 year old Thomas Train that you ride on. Battery wouldn't take a charge so took it back and got all my money back. Can't beat that. Odds are that won't happen with the spa since I guess most leaks and electronic issues will happen within the warranty period. Thanks again for the input, though. Looks like either a Strong (Evolution) or OC spa, 3 seater. Really like the Clearwater XS76R, but probably going to be out of my price range. Waiting for a quote.

Oldbones

[DK117]

old bones,

Spatech is right on with that company, But i would also look at D1,Sundance, Jacuzzi,Hot Springs, Marquis, on the short list, I know Costco sounds like a good deal, i don't want to turn this into the costco good or bad. IMO i am not a fan of buying larger products like mowers, tubs, compressors etc. i want to be able to have someone to service under warranty or out of warranty and by someone who knows what they are doing. again this is my opinion....good luck on the hunt......

The Spa Guy

LOL! I had to respond to this one as I purchased a mower with a Honda engine at Costco three years ago! You've got me pegged. (at least two of your three listed)

DK117

[spatech (the unreal one)]

Hey Spatech,

Just saw what looks like a great deal at Costco on an OC (Cal spa?) 3 person tub. $3000 delivered. 36 jets, one 6hp pump, ozonator. I don't hear alot of nice things about Cal Spa so any input on your end? Warranty fair but not great.

I'm not a big fan of Costco spas (their history has not been good) but the return policy obviously is the selling point and they're obviously better than your original Ebay idea. I'm also not a fan of Cal but the funny thing is in this case I'd buy the Cal through Costco before I'd buy through their dealers because Cal isn't known for taking care of their customers but in this case Costco insulates you.

I'd look at what other spa makers have to offer as well as Costco because while they all have top of teh line spas most of the top spa makers also cater much more nowadays to the person who just can't/doesn't want to spend $8k.

[old bones]

Hey Spatech,

Just saw what looks like a great deal at Costco on an OC (Cal spa?) 3 person tub. $3000 delivered. 36 jets, one 6hp pump, ozonator. I don't hear alot of nice things about Cal Spa so any input on your end? Warranty fair but not great.

I'm not a big fan of Costco spas (their history has not been good) but the return policy obviously is the selling point and they're obviously better than your original Ebay idea. I'm also not a fan of Cal but the funny thing is in this case I'd buy the Cal through Costco before I'd buy through their dealers because Cal isn't known for taking care of their customers but in this case Costco insulates you.

I'd look at what other spa makers have to offer as well as Costco because while they all have top of teh line spas most of the top spa makers also cater much more nowadays to the person who just can't/doesn't want to spend $8k.

Yah, I've emailed D1, Clearwater and Strong to see if they'll come down on pricing at all. The Strong spa on Costco looks great but I figure if Cal (OC) can sell bascially the same spa for a grand less, so can Strong. I'm in sales and sometimes you just have to cut profit and make the sale to keep production going. I've always said 15% of something is better than 30% of nothing. I'll let you know what happens.

[DK117]

I don't have deep pockets and have about a $4k budget.

I think we've got a pretty good thread going here. I'm certainly looking forward to additional responses. But let's see what we can do for Old Bones. Certainly the most important part of his search is his budget. I know I didn't do enough research about a year ago, though I'm happy with my purchase. I'm pretty sure $4K budget eliminates the well regarded brands on this forum, Hot Springs, D1, Jacuzzi. Unless he goes used. If you said $6K plus I think the story would be much different. Also to consider, do you have a slab and electrical? My experience is with Costco so I'll just put this out there, the price for Costco, add tax, movers ($300 in my case) electrical and a slab. The price of the tub isn't the total budget, not even close. So even with a $4k budget for the tub, I think we need to be honest here and say the options are limited.

DK117

[old bones]

I don't have deep pockets and have about a $4k budget.

I think we've got a pretty good thread going here. I'm certainly looking forward to additional responses. But let's see what we can do for Old Bones. Certainly the most important part of his search is his budget. I know I didn't do enough research about a year ago, though I'm happy with my purchase. I'm pretty sure $4K budget eliminates the well regarded brands on this forum, Hot Springs, D1, Jacuzzi. Unless he goes used. If you said $6K plus I think the story would be much different. Also to consider, do you have a slab and electrical? My experience is with Costco so I'll just put this out there, the price for Costco, add tax, movers ($300 in my case) electrical and a slab. The price of the tub isn't the total budget, not even close. So even with a $4k budget for the tub, I think we need to be honest here and say the options are limited.

DK117

Hey DK,

I have a slab and electrical so that's done. Again, the Evo Esprit on Costco at $3999 including shipping looks like the ticket. I'm writing them to see if they'll come down to the OC price range since there's enough similarity between the two. Who knows, they might. I'll let you know. And I asked if they'll have any special deals with Costco coming up as well. I like some of the attributes of the OC (full foam, 6hp motor and such) but Evo just looks like all around better build. Any inputs?

thanks again,

OB

[DK117]

I don't have deep pockets and have about a $4k budget.

I think we've got a pretty good thread going here. I'm certainly looking forward to additional responses. But let's see what we can do for Old Bones. Certainly the most important part of his search is his budget. I know I didn't do enough research about a year ago, though I'm happy with my purchase. I'm pretty sure $4K budget eliminates the well regarded brands on this forum, Hot Springs, D1, Jacuzzi. Unless he goes used. If you said $6K plus I think the story would be much different. Also to consider, do you have a slab and electrical? My experience is with Costco so I'll just put this out there, the price for Costco, add tax, movers ($300 in my case) electrical and a slab. The price of the tub isn't the total budget, not even close. So even with a $4k budget for the tub, I think we need to be honest here and say the options are limited.

DK117

Hey DK,

I have a slab and electrical so that's done. Again, the Evo Esprit on Costco at $3999 including shipping looks like the ticket. I'm writing them to see if they'll come down to the OC price range since there's enough similarity between the two. Who knows, they might. I'll let you know. And I asked if they'll have any special deals with Costco coming up as well. I like some of the attributes of the OC (full foam, 6hp motor and such) but Evo just looks like all around better build. Any inputs?

thanks again,

OB

Are we talking about the Costo deal of the day? OC Hot Tubs 36 Jet - 3 person lounger spa? $2999.99? I just don't see how that compares to the Mediterranean ... why Esprit? The extra grand will go a long way. I have zero experience with OC. I've gotta say, price was my number one factor. But it wasn't the ONLY factor. I don't think it's fair to ask Strong to attempt to reprice Costo's offerings to meet your needs. It's pretty black and white at this point. Regardless of what others might say, you're choice is down to OC and Strong. Budget is a huge factor. I'd look at Strong, but I totally understand that even a grand is a major issue in today's economy.

DK117

[old bones]

I don't have deep pockets and have about a $4k budget.

I think we've got a pretty good thread going here. I'm certainly looking forward to additional responses. But let's see what we can do for Old Bones. Certainly the most important part of his search is his budget. I know I didn't do enough research about a year ago, though I'm happy with my purchase. I'm pretty sure $4K budget eliminates the well regarded brands on this forum, Hot Springs, D1, Jacuzzi. Unless he goes used. If you said $6K plus I think the story would be much different. Also to consider, do you have a slab and electrical? My experience is with Costco so I'll just put this out there, the price for Costco, add tax, movers ($300 in my case) electrical and a slab. The price of the tub isn't the total budget, not even close. So even with a $4k budget for the tub, I think we need to be honest here and say the options are limited.

DK117

Hey DK,

I have a slab and electrical so that's done. Again, the Evo Esprit on Costco at $3999 including shipping looks like the ticket. I'm writing them to see if they'll come down to the OC price range since there's enough similarity between the two. Who knows, they might. I'll let you know. And I asked if they'll have any special deals with Costco coming up as well. I like some of the attributes of the OC (full foam, 6hp motor and such) but Evo just looks like all around better build. Any inputs?

thanks again,

OB

Are we talking about the Costo deal of the day? OC Hot Tubs 36 Jet - 3 person lounger spa? $2999.99? I just don't see how that compares to the Mediterranean ... why Esprit? The extra grand will go a long way. I have zero experience with OC. I've gotta say, price was my number one factor. But it wasn't the ONLY factor. I don't think it's fair to ask Strong to attempt to reprice Costo's offerings to meet your needs. It's pretty black and white at this point. Regardless of what others might say, you're choice is down to OC and Strong. Budget is a huge factor. I'd look at Strong, but I totally understand that even a grand is a major issue in today's economy.

DK117

Hi DK

OC is actually Cal Spa, and after reading all the negatives about them, I'm definitely shying away from them. Got a quote from Clearwater and although looks like they make a great spa, price was $6k delivered. I've been in sales all my life and my customers always want to negotiate especially if my competition is selling something very similar (apples and apples) for less. In this case I did ask Strong what they could do and let's just say the answer was very favorable for me, so I will be ordering the Esprit from Evolution (Strong). I wish I could get two motors instead of one, but no complaints for my price range. Now, this is going to seem like a really dumb question, but for a "newbie", I need to ask. The jets protrude out from the acrylic but do they rub on your back, legs or any part of your body to the point where there is discomfort if they are not in use? Hey, this is my first one, so be kind. LOL

Thanks

OB

[DK117]

Hi DK

OC is actually Cal Spa, and after reading all the negatives about them, I'm definitely shying away from them. Got a quote from Clearwater and although looks like they make a great spa, price was $6k delivered. I've been in sales all my life and my customers always want to negotiate especially if my competition is selling something very similar (apples and apples) for less. In this case I did ask Strong what they could do and let's just say the answer was very favorable for me, so I will be ordering the Esprit from Evolution (Strong). I wish I could get two motors instead of one, but no complaints for my price range. Now, this is going to seem like a really dumb question, but for a "newbie", I need to ask. The jets protrude out from the acrylic but do they rub on your back, legs or any part of your body to the point where there is discomfort if they are not in use? Hey, this is my first one, so be kind. LOL

Thanks

OB

I'm glad everything is proceeding as planned. I was in sales for 12 years. I understand negotiations, I'm still not sure that I agree with haggling through a retail distribution channel. (then again I do so at Best Buy.) Oh well, sounds like it worked for you.

I like your question about the jets. The one place where it's a little awkward in my opinion is the jets that hit my hamstrings. They do protrude a bit. So I personally have those jets closed and unconsiously just move my legs on either side of those jets. I've never noticed it on the back or anywhere else.

You'll have to post some pictures when you get the Esprit installed, I don't think we've seen one of those yet.

DK117

[old bones]

old bones,

Spatech is right on with that company, But i would also look at D1,Sundance, Jacuzzi,Hot Springs, Marquis, on the short list, I know Costco sounds like a good deal, i don't want to turn this into the costco good or bad. IMO i am not a fan of buying larger products like mowers, tubs, compressors etc. i want to be able to have someone to service under warranty or out of warranty and by someone who knows what they are doing. again this is my opinion....good luck on the hunt......

The Spa Guy

Need another input, and that is the "lounger". A lot of people say to stay away from the lounger and just get "seats". Why is that? It sure looks like it would be theraputic and relaxing. Any opinions?

Thanks

OB

[old bones]

Hi DK

OC is actually Cal Spa, and after reading all the negatives about them, I'm definitely shying away from them. Got a quote from Clearwater and although looks like they make a great spa, price was $6k delivered. I've been in sales all my life and my customers always want to negotiate especially if my competition is selling something very similar (apples and apples) for less. In this case I did ask Strong what they could do and let's just say the answer was very favorable for me, so I will be ordering the Esprit from Evolution (Strong). I wish I could get two motors instead of one, but no complaints for my price range. Now, this is going to seem like a really dumb question, but for a "newbie", I need to ask. The jets protrude out from the acrylic but do they rub on your back, legs or any part of your body to the point where there is discomfort if they are not in use? Hey, this is my first one, so be kind. LOL

Thanks

OB

I'm glad everything is proceeding as planned. I was in sales for 12 years. I understand negotiations, I'm still not sure that I agree with haggling through a retail distribution channel. (then again I do so at Best Buy.) Oh well, sounds like it worked for you.

I like your question about the jets. The one place where it's a little awkward in my opinion is the jets that hit my hamstrings. They do protrude a bit. So I personally have those jets closed and unconsiously just move my legs on either side of those jets. I've never noticed it on the back or anywhere else.

You'll have to post some pictures when you get the Esprit installed, I don't think we've seen one of those yet.

DK117

Hey DK

Just went and looked at a D1 Triad. BIG MISTAKE. It would be perfect for the wife and me and I get get the floor model, never used, for $7000. I know it's a great deal but it's also a great deal more than I wanted to spend. We're going to wet test teh Aurora Tuesday and some others at the advice of those on this blog and others. Makes sense to at least dry test if not wet test, and with the Strong (Evo) spas, there are no dealers, at least in my area. That may kill the deal. My partner at work used to sell Hot Springs, and he says the quickest way to sell one is to get the customer in the spa, turn on music and leave them alone. They come out with check in hand. I really like the "hand" jet feature on the Triad for my wife's arthritis. Don't know of any other hot tub that has that. Not sure if the "sequencer" is worth it but it comes standard on it. I'll let you know, and thanks for continuing the thread.

OB

[premiumhottubs]

My wife and I are getting to the point where we need a hot tub for arthritis relief and I've been researching ad nauseum. It's just the two of us so a nice 5x7 2-3 person spa would be ideal, but want one with 30-40 jets to get all the needed areas. There's one on Ebay that sounds great with 10-5-5 warranty but the guy won't tell you the manufacturer until you buy. Made in So Cal but that's it. Reads like the Mercedes of spas. Looked at Strong and Durasport and Stonewood as well as others. Anyone have any recommendations or know anything about the above mentioned companies? Would appreciate any help.

That to me sounds like a horrible deal. When it comes to buying a hot tub I like to think of it like buying a new car. When you buy a new car you take that car for a test drive to be sure that it is indeed a car you want. Well a hot tub is the same way. You should go to a credited dealer, one that you feel comfortable with. And always, always do a wet test on a hot tub before you buy it. Like a car what works for one person will not work for everyone else.

I am not sure of the make of hot tub that ebay had to offer you. But I do know that a Jacuzzi brand hot tub is worth you taking the time to look at. Jacuzzi has popularized the ancient practice of water massage therapy for a new age. Relaxing heat, muscle stimulation, and lighter-than-air buoyancy relieve physical burdens and brighten the spirits.

The healing effects of hydrotherapy: improved circulation, decreased joint pain, and acceleration of the body's natural healing processes. After a hydrotherapeutic session in a Jacuzzi spa you will for sure have a spring in your step. <br>

[JerimiahR]

Now, this is going to seem like a really dumb question, but for a "newbie", I need to ask. The jets protrude out from the acrylic but do they rub on your back, legs or any part of your body to the point where there is discomfort if they are not in use? Hey, this is my first one, so be kind. LOL

Thanks

OB

You need to sit in the spa yourself to answer this question. What bugs one person, another person likes. Usually though, the jet fittings are recessed into the backrest. Although they do "protrude" the area around the fitting should be molded in such a way as to make the jet fittings about flush with the seat back itself. This way you're not sitting against the jet fitting itself.

I'm glad that you've stayed away from eBay as that's probably the worst option available for hot tubs.