Thanks Breny for starting this thread and thanks to all who made recommendations. That is what I like about this site. Most of the time before I even ask a question, someone else does and I learn what I need to know -- even about vacuums!
I have an Oreck and am ready for a new one. This Oreck has actually been a good machine -- but it is a bag and for some reason the bags are not staying on like they should so I have rigged a clip inside. Still am getting too much dust from it. This is no slam on Oreck though -- the first 10 years I had it, it worked great.
I also have a whole house in-the-wall vacuum system, which I hate. The hose is so long, it is a pain to drag around and I do not think it has the suction it should.
I may get DH to go with me this weekend -- I have some of those Best Buy bucks to use too. I decided based on my own luck with appliances I better go with the new one and get the 5 year parts and labor warranty. The reconditioned one is quite a bargain, but I am not a tinker-er if something goes wrong.