Live in SE Wisconsin. Researched many spas, on line, at stores, and at the 'super sales' at the State Fair Park. Chose the Hawkeye 88MR as best bang for the buck, and couldn't be more happy.
Installed Thanksgiving weekend of 2005. Local Dealer delivered it, positioned it, and I did the electrical and fill up.
Initial problem with filter cycle program was solved with a 1/2 hour phone conversation with the dealer. The tub was a floor display, and evidently someone had messed around with the control pad. After about six months, I had one removable jet, that wouldn't stay in place. Dealer exchanged it, no problem.
Spa gets used once or twice a week. Has seen romantic evenings for two, and rowdy crowds of six or seven high school football players. Still looks new, and has proved to be both easy to maintain, and trouble free.