Hot Tub Forum
Original => Hot Tub Forum => Topic started by: Chk on January 24, 2017, 02:16:18 pm
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Hi - I am still in the weeding out process in looking for a premium small hot tub. In looking at the Jetsetter, Bullfrog A5l (I can't see the difference between the A and R, except lights and $1,500) and Marquis Spirit, they are about the same $8,500 price. Am I wrong? I was going to check out the D1 and maybe Artic, so can I assume the price is the same? I'd rather spend a few thousand less but I will spend more if I have to in order to get a the best quality.
Next step is to wet test. But am I on the right track?
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The first 3 you mentioned are all great tubs from the top 3 manufacturers in the industry imo, and yes they will all be priced fairly close to each other...I would do some checking on each dealer to make sure they are well reviewed and reputable and see if they allow wet testing of any of those models to help narrow it down but like I mentioned 3 great tubs from great manufacturers so it will come down to what you like the best.
FYI there are a few differences between an A & R model from Bullfrog....R5 has 2 JetPaks, the A version has 3 JetPaks....R has a "basic" control head, A has a touchscreen....R5 has no exterior lighting, A5 has 4 corner exterior lights...R5 has no auxiliary controller to activate the jet pump, the A5 does.
good luck in your search!
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Hi - I am still in the weeding out process in looking for a premium small hot tub. In looking at the Jetsetter, Bullfrog A5l (I can't see the difference between the A and R, except lights and $1,500) and Marquis Spirit, they are about the same $8,500 price. Am I wrong? I was going to check out the D1 and maybe Artic, so can I assume the price is the same? I'd rather spend a few thousand less but I will spend more if I have to in order to get a the best quality.
Next step is to wet test. But am I on the right track?
All great choices. Yes, Arctic and D1 have some things the others don't offer and IMO rank higher than a couple of the first three mentioned. So for sure check them both out, both solid manufacturers with good reputations.
And as BF kinda mentioned. Your comfort in the dealer and on your backside is what is important with any of those brands. Listen to the tub running, open it up and look inside. The fit and finish is important after the feel on your butt. Narrow your choices down to a couple by visiting the dealers and see what models they have wet or are willing to get wet (this will also give you a feel for the dealers accommodation/or style/or personality) that will get you closer. Listen to their pitch and research whats fluff and whats solid manufacturing and support after the sale. Then come back and we will keep you going in the right direction. Take your time.
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Thank you. I sense the dealer importance too. I guess the hope is you dont need him but if you do then you want a good one. Is wet testing the exact model essential or is wet testing a different model acceptable? The dealers I visited didnt have every model filled.
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Check out the Arctic Spas Fox model. It is available in two different pump and jetting packages to choose from. So, two different price ranges. It is similar in size to the others you are looking at and is on par quaility build wise as the other you mentioned. If you have any questions about Arctic Spas, let me know and I'll be glad to help.
I also highly recommend buying from a good local reputable dealer. Imo, it is at least as important as buying a quality built spa if not more important.
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Everything said here is spot on. Bullfrog R5L is a great spa, and we are selling them like hotcakes. One not mentioned is the Jacuzzi J-315 nice spa and worth a look.
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All good options and I agree with what BullfrogSpasMN said, you're looking at the top 3 on the market. The Marquis Spirit offers a little bit more leg therapy and has the seating laid out to where you could fit up to 4 if you had 4 wanting to use the tub. I also like the adirondack style seat in the Spirit that is harder to float out of than a traditional lounge. If therapy is your main focus I would recommend upgrading to the MP160 pump on the Spirit which requires 240V power. For what it's worth, the Spirit model is the #1 selling Marquis model. Good luck in your search.
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I just found a D1 dealer close to me. Is the Dupree Bay comparable? Going to look this weekend. I'll also check out the Arctic, but that dealer is an hour away in CT.
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I just found a D1 dealer close to me. Is the Dupree Bay comparable? Going to look this weekend. I'll also check out the Arctic, but that dealer is an hour away in CT.
Of those on your list I would put D1 at the very top. Their construction and reputation for reliability and longevity. Combined with my assessment working on a bunch of older ones up to about 5 years ago. My personal favorite combination of jets, water flow and mold is the Nautilus. I know they have changed hands. But that does not always relate to lessor product, and in most cases it has the opposite effect on manufacturing. I have not seen one in a few years. Out of the repair business mostly. But I was married to 2 of them for 10-15 years after warranty. A Nautilus and a Diplomat. I have owned 3 used ones, can't remember the models other than an Aurora, mighta had 2 of those for short periods in my garage. Minor problems, fit and finish held up well and they were one of the most energy efficient I seen. (HS has that top spot IMO)
I have only seen one Bay series. Our closest dealer is twin cities now I think. I'd have to research see if our guy in Duluth still sells them. He changed brands a few times. What ever happened to that guy from Bemidji Mn, Phil, sold D1? He used to post here. Give us the poop.
I think you should go bigger. And square so you gain more views. And invite a couple guests. If you can't wet test that DB don't buy it. And also don't buy it unless you meet the tighter criteria that particular layout would require with placement and seating options.
Oh and BFSM, here's where BF can shine. IF the choice is only 2 seats then the jet pac option is a clear advantage IF you test them all to determine the best fit.
But as far as less plumbing or any of the other alternate facts on your web site and in your video, thats jibberish. Bad choice of sales tactics bud. I would rather have 4 seats that are different and move between them without having to change jet pacs. And risk seal leaks or possibly more noise. Or the potential to spend $ on jet pacs you don't use or need.
But that's just me the OP can decide what he likes.
Please lets try and keep the fluff to the manufacturers web sites. We can go find it ourselves. Don't throw it out here and not expect another opinion Everytime.
Tman=fluff police
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I just found a D1 dealer close to me. Is the Dupree Bay comparable? Going to look this weekend. I'll also check out the Arctic, but that dealer is an hour away in CT.
Of those on your list I would put D1 at the very top. Their construction and reputation for reliability and longevity. Combined with my assessment working on a bunch of older ones up to about 5 years ago. My personal favorite combination of jets, water flow and mold is the Nautilus. I know they have changed hands. But that does not always relate to lessor product, and in most cases it has the opposite effect on manufacturing. I have not seen one in a few years. Out of the repair business mostly. But I was married to 2 of them for 10-15 years after warranty. A Nautilus and a Diplomat. I have owned 3 used ones, can't remember the models other than an Aurora, mighta had 2 of those for short periods in my garage. Minor problems, fit and finish held up well and they were one of the most energy efficient I seen. (HS has that top spot IMO)
I have only seen one Bay series. Our closest dealer is twin cities now I think. I'd have to research see if our guy in Duluth still sells them. He changed brands a few times. What ever happened to that guy from Bemidji Mn, Phil, sold D1? He used to post here. Give us the poop.
I think you should go bigger. And square so you gain more views. And invite a couple guests. If you can't wet test that DB don't buy it. And also don't buy it unless you meet the tighter criteria that particular layout would require with placement and seating options.
Oh and BFSM, here's where BF can shine. IF the choice is only 2 seats then the jet pac option is a clear advantage IF you test them all to determine the best fit.
But as far as less plumbing or any of the other alternate facts on your web site and in your video, thats jibberish. Bad choice of sales tactics bud. I would rather have 4 seats that are different and move between them without having to change jet pacs. And risk seal leaks or possibly more noise. Or the potential to spend $ on jet pacs you don't use or need.
But that's just me the OP can decide what he likes.
Please lets try and keep the fluff to the manufacturers web sites. We can go find it ourselves. Don't throw it out here and not expect another opinion Everytime.
Tman=fluff police
sure thing, I didn't know we were making up rules as we went along but just for you Tman here is a link to the manufacturers website where you can request that exact video:http://www.bullfrogspas.com/brochure-request/#brochure-form (http://www.bullfrogspas.com/brochure-request/#brochure-form) or for anyone interested just PM me and I'll send a YouTube link to anyone interested.
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I just found a D1 dealer close to me. Is the Dupree Bay comparable? Going to look this weekend. I'll also check out the Arctic, but that dealer is an hour away in CT.
If you're near E. Hartford CT, I can very highly recommend the Caldera dealer there. Been dealing with them for over 15 years already and chose to order a Kauai from them to replace my Tahitian. They've been great, and the tubs are certainly high quality.
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sure thing, I didn't know we were making up rules as we went along but just for you Tman here is a link to the manufacturers website where you can request that exact video:http://www.bullfrogspas.com/brochure-request/#brochure-form (http://www.bullfrogspas.com/brochure-request/#brochure-form) or for anyone interested just PM me and I'll send a YouTube link to anyone interested.
Not sure why you would think I would want a copy of a video that is full of a bunch of missinformation.
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Wow - Went to a D1 dealer, the Dupree Bay is 15k.
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If still thinking aboit the BullFrog, we went with the A series over the R mostly because of the location of the pump controls. With the R you would have to physically get up to the control panel where as the A, there is a control button near your location
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Wow - Went to a D1 dealer, the Dupree Bay is 15k.
Thats crazy! Surely that isn't right. Do they really charge that much for that spa??
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Thanks for the input on the A vs R. My thinking is if I'm spending 7, I'd go the extra $. It's a one time purchase.
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Thanks for the input on the A vs R. My thinking is if I'm spending 7, I'd go the extra $. It's a one time purchase.
go big or go home :-) good luck!
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Yes 15k, went to a Sundance dealer, it only a little less. Makes the Jetsetter and Bullfrog look a whole lot better
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Yes 15k, went to a Sundance dealer, it only a little less. Makes the Jetsetter and Bullfrog look a whole lot better
Wow, that seems excessive to me, but I don't sell those brands of spas. Did you ever go look at the Arctic Fox and get a price on that. We sell them for significantly less than 15K.
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My wife and I just wet tested a Jetsetter but then she wet tested a Gleem and so long Jetsetter. She loved the foot jets and the variety. $7,000 for a 2013 model. Going back to test a Flair or Caldera Tahtian which looks awesome. We can get a brand new 2016 Tahitian for $8,000. Soubds like a good deal?
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My wife and I just wet tested a Jetsetter but then she wet tested a Gleem and so long Jetsetter. She loved the foot jets and the variety. $7,000 for a 2013 model. Going back to test a Flair or Caldera Tahtian which looks awesome. We can get a brand new 2016 Tahitian for $8,000. Soubds like a good deal?
That's 3k less then I sell a Tahitian for. I don't understand how you can possibly sell one that cheap. Does it have the new look or is it from the first half of 2016?
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Dont know whether its the new look. He said it sells for $10,500 normally. Do you recommend it? I havent looked at Caldera before.
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The Tahitian and the Geneva both underwent changes in 2016 as mentioned. We have the older style Geneva Wood looking outsides. I compared the new to ours and they added some features changed some and took some away. IMO they took more away that we like than they added. If you can get the older model for that good price it could be a great decision.
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Do you know what they took away?
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The Tahitian and the Geneva both underwent changes in 2016 as mentioned. We have the older style Geneva Wood looking outsides. I compared the new to ours and they added some features changed some and took some away. IMO they took more away that we like than they added. If you can get the older model for that good price it could be a great decision.
They didn't take anything away. They changed the cabinet, sealed off the bottom and a few other cosmetic changes
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Dont know whether its the new look. He said it sells for $10,500 normally. Do you recommend it? I havent looked at Caldera before.
For 8k I think it's a steal. I would definitely go check it out
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Do you know what they took away?
One thing we enjoy I didn’t see listed in the new Geneva was the air blower. We actually use and enjoy that a lot. I thought they took it out but could be wrong. The large jet on the floor I think they went from one to two. Ours the bottom was sealed with the plastic tray like bottom.
Again that was the Geneva I haven’t compared the Tahitian side by side.
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Thank you for your responses, I think I'll get it. I'll see if they'll throw the Bluetooth in!
What do you suggest, concrete slab, gravel, spa pad or other?
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Thank you for your responses, I think I'll get it. I'll see if they'll throw the Bluetooth in!
What do you suggest, concrete slab, gravel, spa pad or other?
Concrete slab is always best. I've used spa pads as well from leisure concepts and they work well also. Good luck on the blue tooth but I wouldn't take it personally if he says no. I actually sold a Tahitian and a Geneva on Saturday. Without the stereo I sold the Tahitian for 11,200 with step and lift so you are getting a great deal
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I bought an Aria last year and I'm very happy with it. I checked out most brands felt the Aria was the best overall tub for us. I liked the seating layout, especially the corner seat and the foot jets. Loungers are always a different feel for everyone so wet testing is a must. I did fit well with this one. I didn't like brands that had a lounger with a "lip" on the side that pinned you in place. If you're a bigger person, this is a concern.
Even though the jets are strong with the 2 pumps, I do wish they were a little more powerful I like VERY strong, almost painful. Of course, this can be obtained with the diverter valve and shutting some jets but I would love an overall 25 increase.
My second place tubs were the Bullfrog R7L, R6L and Hot Spring Flair. Good luck I don't have any buyers remorse with the Aria.
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I bought an Aria last year and I'm very happy with it. I checked out most brands felt the Aria was the best overall tub for us. I liked the seating layout, especially the corner seat and the foot jets. Loungers are always a different feel for everyone so wet testing is a must. I did fit well with this one. I didn't like brands that had a lounger with a "lip" on the side that pinned you in place. If you're a bigger person, this is a concern.
Even though the jets are strong with the 2 pumps, I do wish they were a little more powerful I like VERY strong, almost painful. Of course, this can be obtained with the diverter valve and shutting some jets but I would love an overall 25 increase.
My second place tubs were the Bullfrog R7L, R6L and Hot Spring Flair. Good luck I don't have any buyers remorse with the Aria.
When it comes time to replace the pumps we can get you 25% easy. To bad you can't adjust pump GPM from the factory.
Do we have any manufacturer reps on this site? Is a custom order with a higher, or lower GPM possible? To add more options for the more refined customers out there who are willing to wait for a special order after tying 2-3 different options in your store? Anyone who thinks jet pacs and those kinds of gimmicks are a big deal would love variable GPM availability. Or better yet why isn't a variable speed pump option not more available yet? I have installed many on in-ground pools and tubs.
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Do we have any manufacturer reps on this site? Is a custom order with a higher, or lower GPM possible?
Not a rep. But I can tell you, the answer is no until someone makes it a big deal. The reason why is because of SKU count. Custom hot tubs are not aligned with manufacturing efficiency... I've heard that speech a million times.
Unless someone big in the industry makes that a big deal, I don't see it happening.
The most custom hot tubs out there I would argue is Thermospas... and we all know what pieces of garbage they are.
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One thing I like with BF pumps they are both 2 speed, a lot of companies have gone to just single speed.
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One thing I like with BF pumps they are both 2 speed, a lot of companies have gone to just single speed.
Most manufacturers use 2 speed pumps. So you get 2-4 options. Variable speed gives you hundreds of options.
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One thing I like with BF pumps they are both 2 speed, a lot of companies have gone to just single speed.
Most manufacturers use 2 speed pumps. So you get 2-4 options. Variable speed gives you hundreds of options.
Do they though? Most have maybe 1 2 speed. Marquis also uses all 2 speed. I would love to see VS pumps in hot tubs. Cost would be through the roof though
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I have never seen variable speed pumps in a spa, which mnfg uses them Tman? Closest I have seen is the "direct flow" system from Artesian, which doesn't change the actual speed of the pump, but the flow of water.
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One thing I like with BF pumps they are both 2 speed, a lot of companies have gone to just single speed.
Most manufacturers use 2 speed pumps. So you get 2-4 options. Variable speed gives you hundreds of options.
at least 80% or more of manufacturers use a 1 speed for pump #2 (matter of fact Bullfrog and Marquis are the only brands I know of that DO, maybe others can chime in on other brands?) and NOBODY is currently using a TRUE variable speed system...too much $$
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I have never seen variable speed pumps in a spa, which mnfg uses them Tman? Closest I have seen is the "direct flow" system from Artesian, which doesn't change the actual speed of the pump, but the flow of water.
Yeah- I got tripped up on this. I totally thought Artesian does indeed have variable speed pumps, as I watched the amp meter but someone on here corrected me (I forget who but I'd love to credit him/her) and I opened one up and alas- I was wrong. Thats why I love this site- Always learning.
I've heard rumblings that Marquis is doing something the same/similar as what Artesian does on their DirectFlow, and will be introducing it on their Vector line but that could just be hearsay.
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I have never seen variable speed pumps in a spa, which mnfg uses them Tman? Closest I have seen is the "direct flow" system from Artesian, which doesn't change the actual speed of the pump, but the flow of water.
Yeah- I got tripped up on this. I totally thought Artesian does indeed have variable speed pumps, as I watched the amp meter but someone on here corrected me (I forget who but I'd love to credit him/her) and I opened one up and alas- I was wrong. Thats why I love this site- Always learning.
I've heard rumblings that Marquis is doing something the same/similar as what Artesian does on their DirectFlow, and will be introducing it on their Vector line but that could just be hearsay.
Marquis is doing something where each individual set is adjustable to your own comfort level on the vector series. I don't know enough about Artesian to say how similar it is though
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I have never seen variable speed pumps in a spa, which mnfg uses them Tman? Closest I have seen is the "direct flow" system from Artesian, which doesn't change the actual speed of the pump, but the flow of water.
Yeah- I got tripped up on this. I totally thought Artesian does indeed have variable speed pumps, as I watched the amp meter but someone on here corrected me (I forget who but I'd love to credit him/her) and I opened one up and alas- I was wrong. Thats why I love this site- Always learning.
I've heard rumblings that Marquis is doing something the same/similar as what Artesian does on their DirectFlow, and will be introducing it on their Vector line but that could just be hearsay.
Marquis is doing something where each individual set is adjustable to your own comfort level on the vector series. I don't know enough about Artesian to say how similar it is though
Artesian 5 seats 5 individual pumps 4 seats 4 pumps with a controls and on/off btn for each seat. Problem we ran into when we were selling them, was maintaining access to all the sides with the consumer as that's where each pump was. Kind of a pain when one failed and we/they had to move the spa to get to it. That being said the pumps they used had a very low failure rate.
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I have never seen variable speed pumps in a spa, which mnfg uses them Tman? Closest I have seen is the "direct flow" system from Artesian, which doesn't change the actual speed of the pump, but the flow of water.
Yeah- I got tripped up on this. I totally thought Artesian does indeed have variable speed pumps, as I watched the amp meter but someone on here corrected me (I forget who but I'd love to credit him/her) and I opened one up and alas- I was wrong. Thats why I love this site- Always learning.
I've heard rumblings that Marquis is doing something the same/similar as what Artesian does on their DirectFlow, and will be introducing it on their Vector line but that could just be hearsay.
Marquis is doing something where each individual set is adjustable to your own comfort level on the vector series. I don't know enough about Artesian to say how similar it is though
Artesian 5 seats 5 individual pumps 4 seats 4 pumps with a controls and on/off btn for each seat. Problem we ran into when we were selling them, was maintaining access to all the sides with the consumer as that's where each pump was. Kind of a pain when one failed and we/they had to move the spa to get to it. That being said the pumps they used had a very low failure rate.
Marquis is 2 pumps with each individual seat controlled. 5 Pumps, thing must blow you away
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Went and put a hold on a 2016 late year Tahitian floor model $8,500 (I thought 8 but 8,500) plus $300 for audio, includes cover, stairs, breaker box, three months chemicals, set up and two more visits in the first month to make sure I know what I'm doing. I owned a Sundance in 2008 that I loved and was very impressed with Caldera. Loved the foot and calf jets, lighting and the look and feel of it.
Think I'll go for the conceete slab, not spa pad. I can wait.
I thank everyone for their thoughtful and helpful comments. Im sure I'll have questions once i get myvtub.
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Wow. Sounds like he really wanted to move that tub. Was it a wet model? Wondering why so cheap. You got the deal of your life so congratulations to you. You will enjoy it
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Congratulations! Sounds like you got a killer deal! Caldera just shipped their new models so I wouldn't be surprised if one reason for the deal was due to the dealer needing more room on the floor.
You won't be disappointed with your Tahitian. I only just retired mine after 16 years of daily use so that we could downsize to a Kauai, but it probably had years left in it. Caldera spas are excellent quality. Doesn't hurt that they have a great jet setup and feel. :)
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I have never seen variable speed pumps in a spa, which mnfg uses them Tman? Closest I have seen is the "direct flow" system from Artesian, which doesn't change the actual speed of the pump, but the flow of water.
Re-read my post.