My DH over thinks & researches everything he buys so I know what that is like. But regarding an investment like this, it pays to think & research. At Houston you will get to try out every machine made. After trying out there, we changed our mind & went with another brand. The A-1. It really pays to try out these machines and also ask for some setup & training. Our Rep came from Tx to Okla. and stayed for 2 days. We learned so much! I think you are wise to go and have your notes all ready when you go to try out machines.