Great Marketing Vs. Great Hot Tubs
Great Hot Tubs or great marketing. You can’t have them both and you can’t relax in a brochure.
There are 2 business models for Hot Tub manufacturers and unfortunately, the best business model is to Build a mid grade spa and spend a lot of money on fancy marketing, spin, and advertising.
The reality is marketing trumps, and the pitch and the spin are nearly impossible to sort from the reality.
One of the best things you can do is this analyse where the money is being spent.
For example, we can pitch reflective foils as a good insulation system, and we can pitch perimeter foam or full foam as great systems but looking past the hype and the pitch to what costs the most is a great way to determine what is really the best system, it’s easy… Full foam uses 3x more of the expensive expanding foam so it costs 3x more… similarly, the good North American parts cost more than the cheap Chinese parts and building a good hand rolled fibreglass shell cost the most.
Hi Chris, Great site with excellent content! We have been looking at getting a hot tub for a couple months and just stumbled onto your site. We are in Colorado and we wondered why you don’t rate or list the Cal Spa in any of your talks, not even on your likes, dislikes and why page? We just went to a Master Spa expo and got interested in the brand but our NUMBER 1 concern is that there is NO DEALER in Colorado, thus no support if something goes wrong. That is also the number one complaint from customers is… Read more »
Hi Kim Chris toured the Cal Spa factory, last year and they are right on the edge with him. Definitely not a bad spa and very close to being in our top group! Master Spa, are obviously a popular brand, and as such there are loads of service guys who are experienced in working with their products. The reality is the idea of a local dealer (and if your local dealer is more than 50 miles away, he may as well be 500) is kind of dated, what you need after delivery is timely information, apps like SpaStar put that… Read more »
Hello,
You are amazing!Great advice.
I am suppose to be accepting delivery on a Hot Springs Grandee High Life collection this week..it was the last one in stock.. for 12,500..a store 50 miles down the road quoated me the same one with 5 month wait for 18,000. So I jumped at it thinking I was getting a deal of the century…then I found your website..Should I cancel delivery and find another Hot tub..or relax and ride this one out knowing I have 5 year warranty on parts and plumbing.
Thanks
Matt
Hi Mathew Difficult position for me to advise, the Hot Springs range is firmly in our messy group. Slick marketing and excellent branding, but the tub itself, is second tier. Check out the warranty, as if and when you need it, its full of proprietary parts, and many of which are produced in Mexico. So, unless the dealer carries a good stock, then you could be waiting a while for a service call that can actually complete a repair. The problem you face, all decent brands have a long wait for delivery, late spring early summer in many cases. Coast… Read more »
Hello, we found a 2017 Marquis V84 HotTub with Microsilk technology for 7300. What would be a good buying price for that tub and would you recommend this hot tub? Cheers,
Hi Ryak Marquis – On Paper a good brand, but we pulled one apart a while ago, and the parts and build were not of good quality by any measure. Did we pick on a bad one, a Friday afternoon rush tub? Who knows, but I doubt it. The Micro-Silk. The selling point is that it injects oxygen bubbles into the water to purify and condition “like medical equipment” but in reality, it simply puts air into the water. Air has about 20% oxygen whereas medical grade oxygen is 100% oxygen. Its always been an expensive option, with little or… Read more »
We are seeing conflicting information all over the internet and, as a result, are thoroughly confused. We just bought a ski home and want to put a hot tub in the yard. Looking for something that would seat around 6 people. We don’t really have a set budget so with that in mind, what would be your recommendation?
Hi John
Probably best to start with having a look at our buyer’s guide, we are not a dealer, and not tied to anyone, so we can talk about the whole market.
https://hottubuniversity.com/hot-tub-buyers-guide/
Also check out our brand reviews, which talks about ‘our’ top brands.
https://hottubuniversity.com/brand-reviews/
Once you’ve had a good look around those pages, if your still a little unsure check out our Private Buyer Service, where we basically help you choose the right product for you, and negotiate the best possible price of your Spa choice.
https://hottubuniversity.com/privatebuyer/
Hi. I’m in Atlanta so have several choices. I owned a Hot Springs 20 years ago and didn’t have many issues. Much has obviously changed. Reviews I find show Marquis and CapSpas as the best models. Looking for best price for a therapeutic massage. Which would you go with?
Hi Tara
Did you mean CalSpa not CapSpas? If so its, not a terrible brand but it depends what you order. They do two heating and control systems you want to make sure you have the Balboa system not the Waterways system.
Marquis, Not a great lover of those right now, we pulled one apart awhile ago, and we found a whole heap of quality control issues, and poor quality parts being used.
Check out our buyers guide to Therapeutic spas.
Hello, we’re deciding between the HotSprings SX HotSpot model (incl circulation pump and ozonator at $6200) or the Master Spa Twilight TS-240 (no upgrades at $6900) and would like your recommendations. HotSprings is sold by a nearby dealer, whereas MasterSpa is sold by a distributor. We’re located in Marina, CA. and important features for us: energy and water efficiency, hydrotherapy massage and spa reliability and quality. Having local customer service seems like an advantage. Thank you!
Hi Monica,
It my opinion, it’s a no brainer, the hotsprings is at best a low to mid end Spa, with an old school mentality where the branding, marketing and a slick sales blurb are the priority. The reality is if we pull apart one of there tubs, there is nothing in the fabrication or the build to validate the high prices. To be honest, you are better off buying the Master Spa… much better construction and parts used.
Hello, we are looking at the Bull Frog M series, can you give me your opinion on this tub and if there is a better tub which one would you recommend?
i Melissa,
The Bullfrogs use a cheap ABS shell and lower end control systems but the biggest issue I have are those jetpacks. They have had a lot of issues with standing water and even mould behind those and it’s just another fancy marketing gimmick that lures customers instead of focusing on quality build and components. For better options, check out Master Spas, PDC, Artesian or Coast Spas
Hi Chris, what are your thoughts on UV systems and ozonator’s. I’m looking at purchasing a Twilight series tub and would like to know if the UV add on is worth it. Thanks
They are as good as any of the onboard chem reduction systems, like Salt, AOP, Ion etc etc but the reality is none of the onboard systems are great. The big flaw is that they only kill organics and that has never been the problem, chlorine is highly effective in low doses of handling organics. and all of these systems despite their claims require around 2ppm of chlorine. The problem is inorganics… soaps, lotions, body oils etc etc, all these band aid onboard water care systems are really bad at handiling inorganics which is why you still need the high… Read more »
Best informational website I’ve found. I live in Raleigh, NC and buying our first hot tub. There are really only 3 different stores in the area each carrying different brands. So you can’t price match. Each store tells me why their tubs are better than the others. So I am so confused on which to lean toward because according to them, they are all great. The fact that they don’t show prices makes me feel like I’m out on a used car lot. I’m looking for an energy efficient, low maintenance, 6 person tub. But I’m confused by which brand… Read more »
Hi Tony,
Yep, that’s the hot tub industry – everyone’s got the best of the best and nothing else is any good. From those choices I’d go with the Artesian every single time. The Hydropool is poorly constructed and uses crap insulation and the Vita line is middle of the road. That’s a good price on the Artesian and it’s a good unit so I’d go for it.
Hi, I have narrowed down my choices between the Hot Spring Jetsetter LX, Jacuzzi J315, and the Bullfrog R5L. Those are the 3 brands available in my area. Due to Covid I can’t wet test so really looking for opinions. I like strong jets so that is one factor but also other things like quality, reliability, durability, and repair costs after warranty runs out are also factors. They are all similarly priced so that won’t be the decider. Between those 3 which would you buy? (I’m currently leaning towards the Jetsetter LX with the new salt system)
Hi Alan, First off, you are much better off ignoring salt systems. While they work well for pools they are not suited to spas and you will still have a chlorine based system (the chlorine comes from the salt). Don’t fall for the marketing hype of “new” salt systems or other “high-tech” water treatment systems. Instead go with the Spa Marvel system. Salt will get your chlorine from the standard 6 parts to million to about 3-4 but Spa Marvel will get you down to 1 ppm and it’s far easier than any other system – pour a bottle in… Read more »
Looking at the Master spa Twilight 8.25 versus the Bullfrog A-series A7. MasterSpa offered at $10,300 and Bullfrog at $12,500. Can you help me pick, and what do you think on these prices? Both include cover, steps, and delivery.
The Bullfrog has a thinner cradle supported ABS plastic shell its a lot less expensive to make, also the electronic control and heating system is a gecko, Balboa is a lot better, the jet package on the Twilight is way higher and it has better neck and shoulder jetting and betteer foot jetting…
The only reason the Bullfrog is more expensive is that they piss away tons of money on fancy branding, marketing, and advertising to make this mid-end product seem high end…
Looking at Master Spa T6.2 as have a very small yard. In Paris, Ont. Spoke to Kitchener shop that carries this product. Saying cost is $13,995.00 Canadian Covid special?. Is this a reasonable price? Seems high for smaller tub. I love your site. Any other models that cost less with same great build and components?
its a bit high I would say, if it’s available right away it’s worth paying because most tubs are 90-120 days out…
Hey there! Wow! Someone who actually takes the time in this minefield of marketing ploys to help you get to the right tub! Thank you so much man! I’ll dive in… First time tub owners, chronic pain and muscle issues. Going for the best in class for therapeutic aspects. Locally we can get MAXX, Beachcomber, Artic Spa and I’m not sure about Masters but I know they are within an hour or two. Any help in recommending what might work for us is greatly appreciated! We are in Corunna, Ontario which is directly across from Port Huron, Michigan. An hour… Read more »
Beachcomber for sure out of that mix the performance is not great but at least they are built well with good parts, the only real issue I have is the nonremovable skirt… insane.. when they leak yer screwed, and don’t buy the hybrid option its bad tech… The Arctic is all cheap Chinese proprietary parts low R-value insulation, and they don’t even bother to clamp the plumbing lines, the best thing about the brand is the brochure you’d be better with a Costco tub and that ain’t saying much. Maxx is again not great in this case its the cradle… Read more »
HI, in some need of guidance. I’ve narrowed down the choices of two tubs to the Precision 7 by Master Spas or the J245 by Jaccuzi.
I can get either for a similar price range (=/- $1000.00) and would like to know what you suggest.
Thanks!
Hi Bob,
I’d go for the precision 7 just off build quality alone, Jacuzzi gets all their parts from Mexico and are custom so you can’t get them elsewhere, I’ve heard stories of people waiting forever to get parts or paying way more than they should for something basic. Good OEM parts are worth it every time The hot tub parts game and how it affects your long term satisfaction
Hi there, im over in michigan and i have been looking at spas for a week now with a budget between 6-8k. I thought i had settled on a viking tradition 1 but then randomly wandered into a masterspa dealer and fell in love with the masterspa twilight 8.25. The viking is $7,500 and the masterspa is $8,500 and both come with all the extra equipment. The masterspa is a little out of by budget, but i would only like to make this investment once, so thinking it may be worth it. My local dealer was absolutely amazing and so… Read more »
Viking is a mid to low end plastic shell tub with basic jetting and that price is high. The TS 8.25 is a top-end therapy massage spa and one of the best-built tubs around and that price is crazy low, it should be $10k
Thank you so much for your response! I feel much better about my decision.
Aw no problem Kristen, absolutely happy to help. We hope you enjoy your tub!!
Hi there. I live near London, Ontario (Canada). Never owned a hot tub before. Looking to try to stay within $8,000-$10,000 range. 5-6 person, with lounger. Local brands seem to be Sima, Artesian, Hydropool, Beachcomber, Dynasty and, of course, Costco sells the Evolution and AquaTerra lines (I’m reluctant to buy from Costco due to lack of service issues). Any thoughts on which of these to avoid, or one(s) you prefer of those listed here? I think the closest Master spa place I’d about 90 minutes away, so am reluctant to purchase this if no one local can service any issues.… Read more »
Hi Cynthia Artesian is good both build and performance on their upper ranges. Sima is not even a brand its a private label and not recommended. Hydropool is owned by a US equity investment corporation, great marketing but that’s the best thing about it. Beachcomber is a good well made spa with good parts, performance-wise it’s middle to low and the nonremovable skirt is a big risk… if you have a leak I’ve seen people pay a grand even under warranty because it has to be taken to a facility lifted up and fixed from the bottom then redelivered and… Read more »
Thank you so much. It is very kind of you to take your time to answer my questions, and has really helped me narrow it down to just the Artesian. Take good care. Cynthia
Happy hot tubbing!
No Matter what brand you buy don’t buy any of the miracle chemical reduction systems like salt or UV or AOP or Ozone, just buy this stuff… its lower chemical easier to manage healthier and less expensive, plus it extends the life of the tub and gives you a lifetime guarantee ion the jets.
https://hottubuniversity.com/spa-marvel-us/
Also download this app It lets you Manage your hot tub chemistry without hassle, diagnose and fix water issues, troubleshoot any problems and even request service on your tub. Spa Star will do all that and more and best of all IT’S FREE!
https://www.spa-star.net/
Hi there, I live up near Edmonton AB, First time spa buyer. We’ve narrowed down to master or Artesian, both from what seem to be very good dealers. We’re looking at Artesian 860B or an 84″ master, not decided on model yet. (twilight is listed at 15k CAD, which is more than we can really afford so we’d likely have to go with a lower model, whereas Artesian is $10,200 CAD). Just wondering whether you have any advise? We just want a solid spa that is reliable and good for Alberta winter, and hopefully has some reasonable massage capability. Many… Read more »
Hey, Ben, the 860 B would compare to the healthy living 8 series, both will be good all-round spas reliable and efficient for cold climates, those two tubs have almost identical build and parts…
What is your opinion of ThermaSpa Concord Silver and their non foam approach? And low chemical bacterial system? They quoted $12k. We live in Bay Area. Does this seem reasonable?
The reflective system is just mylar with a bit of closed cell foam on the perimeter,
https://hottubuniversity.com/hot-tub-insulation-systems-numbers/
They use a lot of Thermo branded terms for things to make them sound special or different but most them are just standard methods or in some cases old ones.
for 12k you could get a much better hot tub, you have tons of service people in the area so I would consider looking at a factory direct or a spa expo, I’ll see if I can find you something.
I was looking for information on how noisy hot tubs are, particularly during the filtration cycle. Are there significant differences between the brands on your A list? or between high end models and middle of the line? I found that very few manufacturers provide the actual DB ratings.
Yep. Some of has to do with the motors (I like the brand “US Motors” a lot has to do with the frame (stay away from steel or metal frames they are crap and noisy) and a lot has to do with vibration mitigation. The best I have seen is the master spas system where they suspend the pump on a rubber bridge.
Help! I need to settle on a hot tub and have only looked at Marquis and Bullfrog. There seems to be so much information and I don’t have huge amounts of money. Trying to get a 5-6 seat hot tub that is quality for less than $9000.
Hey Janet
The Bullfrog for sure right now, marquis is going through some issues and I’ve had to remove them from the recommended list until they get their shit together.
But there are better deals, the truth is the retail hot tub market on the west coast is dead because there is a massive dealer that sells most of the tubs on the west coast and no one can otuch the pricing because they dont have retail overheads, and they have service guys everywhere.
Who is this massive dealer 😀
I th9nk they are based out of the mid west but they thousands of spas across the west coast
Just curious about the dr wellness it has been a year or so since you last commented on them have you found out anymore it’s 6400 for g12 tub with has extra foam it’s the higher series. With the other brands you mention for similar features and warranty couple thousand more
It is what it is, cheap price dodgy quality
Moving to the Flathead Lake region in Northwest Montana. What would be your choice of a dealer in that area and hot tub choice for a 4 person?
man there all middle of the road around you.
I suppose the Cal spa from Escape Now Spas in Whitefish, but make sure its a model with Balboa controls and order the full foam upgrade.
Do you think $10,295.00 is too much money for the Master Spa HL7 (Clarity) . 84x84x36
That really depends.
If that’s Canadian dollars it’s an awesome price. If that’s US it’s too high
Is 11k too high for a Clarity 9? How about 15k for legend LSX 900?
They are high but right now everything is high prices I’m assuming yer paying a premium for fast delivery time?
Hello! Thank you for the information… it’s all VERY helpful (and humbling as I now realize how much we DON’t know!) We’re in Hudson, WI (relatively close to St. Paul, MN) and wondering if you have can suggest brand/model for 7+ person tub in/around ~$10/12k. Would love to spend less if we could, but we were just about to go with a Vector 21 until seeing the “behind the scenes” review showing the deficiency. It’s our first tub, but we do have a salt water pool that we love and with the automatic cover it’s been relatively low maintenance so… Read more »
Shit 10-12k should get you almost anything… def an HL or maybe even a twilight if they have a demo unit…
check these guys out for sure:
Master Pool & Spa
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6415 Wayzata Blvd, St Louis Park, MN 55426
http://www.masterpoolandspa.com
+1 952-253-0665
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Minnesota hot tubs also sell bullfrog and Nordic which is just out of my top list but better than the rest of the crap around you 🙂
Looking to buy a hot tub. Pinnacle Hot Tubs are at a home show. Would you recommend the Pinnacle brand? We live in the Allegheny Mountains in South Western PA where the winters are harsh.
Nope
its changes with them a lot last time I looked it was Gecko, thin shell, crap insulation I heard they got bought out but can’t remember for sure, dude historically it’s not a brand I would consider and I doubt anything dramatic enough to make me change my mind has happened 🙂
There were a bunch dropped in my local market s a few years back by a dump and run show and we have been servicing/replacing them every year…
Wondering what you would recomend for a spa for a couple, children are grown, say 4-6 size, living in the WA area around Tacoma. We’ve had several used fixer uppers, but would like something maintenance free for awhile!
Hi Austin
I would try the guys down at Black Pine Hot Tubs in Edmonds look at the artisans, they are well built.
There is also a load f good independent guys in and around the Seattle area doing service I think you must have some big traveling road shows up there because the retailers are dying and being replaced with these service companies. it does open it up for you, when you have this many indepenadt around you can buy anything with a good parts list and be covered.
Hello- Thanks for the information you have provided, it’s been very helpful.I have been in the market for almost a year looking for hot tubs and I’m caught at the crossroads. Essentially I’m looking to buy a tub around 6-8k but I want a larger tub that holds at least 7. The one company I keep coming across online is Aqua Living who stands by these spas callled Dr.Welness, and from what I researched they used to be called Laguna Spas. Do you know of these spas or have any opinions om their product? I checked out Hot Tubs and… Read more »
I agree and 16k is batshit crazy, you are paying for their massive advertising and marketing and branding more than for any real quality…
look at getaway spas Bar Harbour, 87×87″ 2 pump built well priced right…
Hot Tubs Inc
Kevin Greenwood
340-417-8728 kgreenwell@hottubsinc.com
Master spa Micheal Phelps. Sam Greenwell daughter. I have spent me than a few days with Kevin the owner over the years and these guys run a great program and carry one of my favorite brands.
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1925 Norfolk Dr, Owings, MD 20736
http://www.hottubsinc.com
+1 410-257-6513
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Thanks for all your info…IT IS a ‘hot tub minefield’ out there..after the wife and watched your vids and read info articles we decided on a Master Twilight 6.2.(with the aquafinesse water system). Lucky for us we have a reputable dealer in Calgary. Keep up the excellent work!…regards…Brent and Elaine
Awesome guys Its a great spa and I know Jacqueline and the girls out there.
if you need anything let me know
Thank you for all of this information. It is a huge thing to try to educate yourself on. And the more I look the more there is to know. And the marketing is really starting to confuse me. That said…what is your opinion of a good dealer in the San Diego/Chula Vista area? And also what is a good hot tub brand available…I don’t think we have Master. But there is Artesian, Cal Spas, Beachcomber, and Marquis. There might be other good ones that I haven’t mentioned. Just trying to avoid the ones on your no list. And did you… Read more »
Hi Danielle Its a labour of love but its starting to crush me 🙂 Of your list, I would recommend the Artesian I visited the factory this year and these guys although small are building a good solid hot tub. Again due to the size of the facility their range of products doesn’t get into crazy therapy massage spas where it is all about the massage but they do cover that other 90% really well. I saw Cal Spas this year and did the factory tour and they are really working at the quality control and back-end support for their… Read more »
I’ve tried to pay as much attention as possible. Really looking for therapeutic massage and $8500 is the budget. I have an Atesian dealer as well as a Marquis dealer and both seem to hit your top 5 must haves list. I really want to know which brand and model Atesian Captiva vs Marquis vector v84 for overall use and therapeutic massage.
Hi Colby I can’t really comment on the performance I have never sat in them but they both look fairly similar I really want to see one of these Vector tubs up close, one issue right off is all the goofy parts, mean you are stuck with them for life for these goofy fittings which are no doubt the reason they did it. I am just in the process of trying to get Marquis to sit down and allow us more visibility of their manufacturing process to verify what they are doing but they are crap at returning correspondence 🙂… Read more »
Looking for just a two to three person hot tub. Is a 110 volt hot tub worth a look?
Hi Don
You live right beside my Mom 🙂
In Florida, if you primarily want hot water and some basic jetting these can be a great item.
I love the new Getaway hot Tub line, built right by a good manufacturer using good parts and shell, and clamped plumbing. Also, the Nordic spa is a good tub normally I would push the full foam insulation on the getaway but again in Fla, it’s not a big deal..
These guys sell Artesian a good brand:
https://www.tricountypoolspa.com/
Your site is amazing, I am lost reading all the conversations and recommendations! We are a family of 4 looking for our first spa. Want something easy to maintain with very little to zero chemicals, good massage therapy options, captains chair with leg massage. In the $6-$8k range. We have a marquis dealer and that seems to be the way to go based on everything I’m reading on your site. Anything else you’d have us check out? We are in Ardmore, PA and there are a number of places within an hour or so. Thank you so much for your… Read more »
Hi Traci The marquis are good spas but don’t buy into all the miracle on board systems, by the hot tub standard and then use Aqua finesse or spa marvel… lower chems and easy to maintain. The Masters come with eco pure standard which is arguably the best free system out there but don’t buy into the miracle on board systems none of them are as good or cost effective as the aftermarket stuff. for the mid ranges they are dead equal, for the high end therapy spas the Master have more lines that really go tot he deep end… Read more »
hi was looking in to buying either a beachcomber 740 model or a master spa twilight ts 7.25 or twilight 8 ts 8.3 was wondering what the better choice would be and how much from Toronto
Both spas are built very well, they use good vinyl ester resin cored hand rolled self-supporting shells and Balboa controls and heating systems. from a performance standpoint, they are in two very different classes, beachcomber 740 compares more the healthy living line of spas from therapy massage standpoint, they do not do any really high-end massage spas. look at the jetting and flow control systems… If you want just well-built spas then wither will do for you but if its all about the massage then the Twilight by a huge margin… the best massage chair in the beachcomber has a… Read more »
Hi.
We live in Coeur d’alene ID. and looking at a Viking Heritage 71. What is your opinion of this brand.
Cant say i am a fan. Viking has been around forever but never really became a serious player, the problem is unless you get big enough you can’t afford to build everything to the top spec. While the parts are good, I don’t like the plastic shell, I really want a good Hand rolled fibreglass shell. The pipes are not clamped, and the insulation is not my recommended system. all in all its what most spas are, some good, some bad and some ugly… go see the Artesian spas here: Priano’s Billiards & Backyards (208) 292-4126 318 West Haycraft Ave.… Read more »
Hi, I have a Vita,Jacuzzi and Bullfrog dealer in my area and a cal spa. The cal spa dealer is just a rep, he does not have a place to go see the tub. His price is much lower. They have all been around for 15+years. Being a first time buyer its hard to buy a tub that i can’t see first. what do you think? Thanks
First time buyer….been reading your comments and watching your videos….so much information. We have only one dealer close to us, we live out on the Olympic Peninsula, and one of your top recommendations is to buy from a local dealer. They sell these brands….Hot Spring, Hotspot, Cladera and Fantasy. Any recommendations on which to buy?
if they have been selling the line for 5 years or more than even though it’s not my goto brand at least they will know its issues and be able to take care of you.
On the other hand, a great dealer is key, but a great dealer is not about proximity. It’s about knowledge and communication, there are always local handymen or electricians that can swap parts on a spa using the good OEM parts…
Looking for a good round 6′ hot tub. Live near Indianapolis, IN. Your suggestions and thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Master Spas Indianapolis (by Appointment Only)
8070 Castleton Road , Indianapolis, IN, 46250
Phone: 317-999-5922
indysales@masterspas.com
http://www.masterspas.com
Chris: I am trying to find a reliable Hot Tub in the Las Vegas area that I will fit comfortably in. Big fan of your posts at Hot Tub University. I am looker for a larger tub–would like a lounger seat, but I am 6’4″ and most I try don’t seem to fit me correctly–so ok with just getting a 6-7 person seated tub with strong jets and good therapeutic qualities. Have you ever looked at the “poolandsparatings.com” post from 2013 and what can you tell me about their grading or overall scoring of many brands of Hot Tubs? Also… Read more »
I had a cruise around the poolandspararating site and the rating criteria and rankings and it seems totally arbitrary and was before all the cheap pats came into being. I would say they are a Hot Springs dealer 🙂 I can’t find much real info on the Dr wellness a lot of vague references about inexpensive spas being affordable, It’s using some control and heating system I have never seen and I have seen all the top 5. I love the crazy free heat pitch about the friction manifolds ???? The laws of physics are clear and they do apply… Read more »
Hi We are first time buyers and live in Winnipeg. We are trying to decide on a brand which has good insulation (given our extreme winter weather), good jet power for a healthy massage, relatively low maintenance and reliability. We looked at Arctic as they have a nice esthetic (cedar surround) and promote their insulation factor but they seemed to come on with a hard sell and it looks like you have some unfavorable opinions. What other options could you suggest? Do you know of any other recommended companies have the cedar surround? Could the surround be changed to cedar… Read more »
Hi James
Yeah, I am not a big fan of the brand, I tore one apart and can see no justification for the high pricing, Rising dragon jets, no-name control systems they are having made in Asia, very little insulation and they don’t even clamp the plumbing.
dude go see the boys at Krevco, they sell Master, Its one of my goto brands. https://www.krevco.com/
Hi Chris. Great wealth of info. Thanks. Do you have any insight into Dimension One Spas?
bought by the jacuzzi group, last i saw they had gecko electronics and built a decent spa but with a perimiter insualtion.
not on my top list but not a nightmare brand.
In my area ottawa ontario we are looking at 3 different hot tubs; beachcomber, artic and signature and as well there is a guy who sells his hot tubs out of warehouse Pinnacle hot tub. Everyone has a pitch why they are better. Looking for 6 to 8 person hot tub reliable under 10k.
Beachcomber out of that group would be my choice.
Not a fan of Arctic at all, good shell and the rest is middle of the road. Pinnacle again would not be on my floor
Looking for a Master spa dealer in the Spokane, WA area. Seeking a small spa 2 to 3 person thar will retain heat in cold winter usage. I did locate a Marques dealer. Thank you, GHS
HI, first time hot tub buyer. Looking to buy local in San luis obispo, CA. we have 3 choices. Jacuzzi J-335 ($8500), Vita 300 elegant($6400) and Bullfrog RL7($7700).
Any thoughts? thanks for your help
Of the three Bullfrag I guess, at least the parts are compliant, and the insulation is good. Vita is middle of the road in my opinion, the steel frame I do not like, its a gimmick and noisy and usually needed if you are making a thin shell that needs supporting. The biggest problem I have is the reflective insulation systems, they are cheap and not very effective. There are a lot of different reflective surfaces but the truth is it does not change the fact that they are reflective insulation only dealing with radiant heat and the backing has… Read more »
Thanks for the reply and info. I have found a local dealer who sales Marquis.
We are looking at the 425. Do you recommend the Marquis over the Bullfrog?
The Bullfrog seems a little gimmicky.
thanks
PS price is simalier
Hi. I dont know if you still see these new comments now. Our heads are spinning from looking at hot tubs. We have looked at so many. Currently between a Dynasty, a Maxx, or a Mira. We are in the USA in Ohio. Finding reviews on these have been so tough. Maxx acts like thier perimeter insulation is best. We question that with the cold Ohio winters. Have you heard of these brands and have an opinion on which may be best?
dynasty I’m not a fan of, see this video of a dynasty we took on trade… https://youtu.be/RWFY5xQE5sg
Maxx uses the inexpensive insulation systems, and not heard of Mira
Hi again. Apologies for asking again but we are in the market ASAP for a new hot tub. We have stuck way too much money in trying to kerp our old one alive that we are biting the bullet and going new. Need it for chronic back and neck pain management. Used almost daily. Must be goid in cold weather. Looking in St. Cloud MN. Too many manuf. Touting they’re the best and don’t know what to believe. Narrowed down sumwhat to Arctic. Cal Spa. ThermoSpa. Master spa. Any and all info into these brands and others is greatly welcome.… Read more »
Hi Tisha
Bad Timing I was away for a week at races with my boy 🙂
Get the Master, they are built better and efficient and use good parts.
Okay. Im wavering on pulling the pin on the master spa. Theres just so much contradictory info out there. So I’m torn between master spa twilight 7.2, hot springs highlife aria, cal spa huntington or la jolla. I like the motomassage on hot springs & the ATS seat on the cal. Our friends love their Maxx but dont know much about them. The more i look the more confused I’m getting. I need to hear why not to go with one of these. Uhg! Help please.
How about Hot Springs highlife series. Jetsetter?
Your site has been really informative so keep up the great work it’s really appreciated! We live in Eastern Ontario just outside of Ottawa and have been shopping around the local dealers. Wow what an experience as it really is a gong show of information (one says one thing and the other says the opposite). I think we’ve narrowed down our decision (much due to the info on your website and feedback from others). So a little about us. We are 2 adults who will be using the tub for our own use with maybe 5% of the time having… Read more »
These are both well-built tubs, try them out because the reality is its personal preference from here on out…
Thanks for taking the time to reply. It’s really appreciated. May we ask where you are located and do you ever have any tubs sent up to our area?
In this post you talk about expo shows and your concerns with them. Master Spa is having a show in my area soon. There is no Master Spa dealer in my area so should I stay away from the “show” or go ahead and purchase here?
Sorry for the delay been busy and I’m a one man show :-0 Expos are like anything good if they are done right, a shit show if they are not. Just like buying from a local dealer really good if it’s a great dealer a shit show if it’s not… If you are a handy person and don’t mind doing some of your own stuff If you have a good local Handyperson you can pay if the Expo dealer has a good local service guy then this can be a good option to buy a hot tub… But You can… Read more »
I have a 14 yr old daughter with very bad psoriatic arthritis. She also has the skin plaque psoriasis and chlorine is an irritant. I need to get the best massage tub with the best salt system. I’m overwhelmed with decisions . We live on the east coast where everything is accessible. Your opinion would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.
Hi trisha
be careful of salt systems… they just make chlorine or bromine and are 2-3 times higher chemical than a mineral salt system like Aquafinesse or Mineral Lux watch this video:
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxrbD7P7umA&w=560&h=315]Can’t thank you enough. Really, this was invaluable information. Very grateful.
Hi, what a great resource your site is! We live in Clayton, NY on the Canadian border, and are looking to replace our (still working!) vintage Tiger River Bengal. The Canadian dealers I called either won’t deliver to our area and/or say they would charge sales tax. On the US side, there are 3 dealers who would deliver & service: Hot Springs, Caldera & PDC. We’ve used the Hot Springs dealer over the years with good results. There is a Marquis dealer about 2 1/2 hours away that will not deliver to us, and the Master Spa site directs me… Read more »
Hi Sharon.
if you buy from Canada and they drop ship from the factory in the US there is no tax.
Chris, I’m down to a Sundance 780, Master twilight 8.2, and artesian grand bahama. Please help.
Thanks, Mike
The Artesian or the TS
If it’s all about the massage then the TS for sure, it has a lot more of the expensive large therapy jets than the Artesian.
If it’s more about chilling and entertaining than either the ASrtesian or The Healthy Livings.
Chris I chose the twilight. After they delivered I discovered it was a new 2016. Is there any difference between a 2016 vs a 2017? As a dealer would you ever deliver a year end model instead of current yr model without telling the customer? Also how does if affect warranty? Haven’t decided whether to make them take it back.
That’s a funny one but not unheard of.
Big dealers will often have models from previous years or they might have bought off the factory stock list which sometimes had previous year stock and no there is no difference except some of the jets and they could be exchanged but I actually like the old rotors a little better 🙂
The warranty starts when you took delivery and really it makes little or no difference.
We are trying to decide on a Hot Tub. Choices are limited here in Lake Havasu City, Az. Have narrowed down to Hot Springs Pulse or Tropic Seas Oahu. Any thoughts on these would be appreciated!
tropic seas
Hi! Great website! Looking for a hot tub south of Boston. Have 6 in my family, so something large, with great therapeutic jets for tight muscles. Thinking of master twilight based on your reviews. Are there any other brands/spas that are a good value in this range and area? Also, thinking of perhaps a spa/swim spa combo–any recommendations on those? Thank you so much–this is a mind boggling process!
Hi Tina
For the whole package, the Twilight is hard to touch. There are spas that perform as well that are poorly built and there are spas that are built as well but performance wise are not quite there.
For Swimmers the Trainer 19 Deep hands down… Its the official spa of the Ironman competitions. Flows tonnes of water, 60″ deep, and built and insulated right…
Hi we are first time hot tub buyers. We are looking at Sundance, or one of the Jacuzzi brands. Mostly Sundance, what are your thoughts on this brand?
Both brands have great marketing as do all the big corporate brands,Sundance is owned by the same arent at Jacuzzi… its what they do best. unfortunately the cost of doing great branding and marketing is that there is just not that much left to build the actual product… they use a lot of no name parts they have made for them that just fit thier spas.