I get it!
George - You are going to get a ton as you can see options from Members here. I was in the same boat several years ago. I wanted to to put in a central system. I heard the good, the bad and the ugly. I visited with a reputable store and took several systems for a spin. I ultimately elected on a system and glad I did. I love central systems it fit how I clean and the house layout was perfect for it. Then...
The Army moved me to Utah. This house would never work with a central system. Too many tight corners and to many expansive spaces to make it feasible. I elected to get the New Rainbow and love it.
I have allergies and the salt plains here make for lots and lots of dust. The Rainbow is a perfect fit for ME! The system is all I could hope for and more. Would I do a central again? Yes, but not here. Maybe at retirement I will. For now the Rainbow is a good fit.
Like you I am not a fan of the Miele. The biggest issue is what I called "belly flopping" on plush carpet. The wheels are so small it would glide across the room on the belly. Leaving a nasty carpet mark and so I returned the machine the same day I got it.
The advice to take a carpet sample to the store is a great one; I plan to remember that if I buy another machine. Basically, go test drive them. Play with them and make the pro and cons list. You have been provided with a good list of great machines so good luck to you! The perfect machine for you is someplace, just got to find it!