Bond

Two pros I work with love their Echo string trimmers - they are medium-prices models.  One of them uses the string trimmer for edging and he's happy with it.   There also is one nearby homeowner who bought the split boom Echo model three years ago; he has nothing but praise for the string trimmer and edger.  I know no one who has any other attachments.  The Stihl reviews are mixed, all from homeowners.  Most like it and but a few are had problems when their dealer dropped the line or Stihl dropped the dealer.    Stihl is not discounted and the company will not allow discounted sales on the web or via eBay.   Shindaiwa has the same problems as Stihl  - in addition to weak dealer network, the machine is too difficult for good repairs, parts impossible, extremely poor factory support (first-hand experience).  Stihl and Shindaiwa are not worth the extra money unless you want the most expensive equipment  and want the dealer to like you  they are not the best buy, but are the most expensive.  If you want a great machine, look at the Honda 4-cycle for $309 on line from www.wisesales.com    For a split  shaft / spilt boom, the Echo is the better choice.   Good luck with whatever you chose.   PS  I am not employed by any of these companies (same for my relatives).