Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

I live on the east side of Cleveland, which means we get hit by Lake Effect snow. I have been without a snow blower since moving up here(2 years ago) as the single stage that used to be fine outside of the snow belt just can't cut it up in the snow belt. I am not looking for anything fancy, just a good, solid reliable two stage gas powered snow blower. I was hoping to spend between $600 to $800. Steering is nice, but not needed. Models I have been looking at are: Cub Cadet 524 WE($699) and 524 SWE($799, S adds steering). Ariens Compact 2-Stage 24" Model 920014($799), Ariens Compact 2-Stage 22" Model 920013($699) I am not too sure on the Cub Cadets. They are MTD engines and I am not sure if they are reliable or not. I have heard the Subaru on the Ariens are supposed to be solid. Any advice from users would be great, including other brands or models I have not listed. Thanks in advance.