They are not bad vacuums
I have five now. They aren't the best either, as with any vacuum it has disadvantages:
1: I do not like their power nozzles. No edge cleaning whatsoever.
2: Newer models (as mentioned above) have a higher pitched scream
3: Though they are supposed to filter this is negated by dumping the dust bucket(I empty mine outside in the compost bin)
4: If you use all the filters they recommend, the consumables can be costly. The filters are all available from aftermarket sellers.
The Defender is not bad. I have two, one upstairs and one down. It's just a motor pulling air through a HEPA filter media. The filters are expensive, even when buying aftermarket. I vacuum mine out every month and it helps extend the life some.
Both vacuum and defender can be purchased on ebay at great savings over a dealer. There are often new or like new current models selling in the $600 range.
