The T230X has been replaced by the T242. It is a treat, light with good power. Wait until you try the Speed Feed head.

I've had a 272X for a couple of years now. I haven't tried running a brush blade on it as I have a C-35 that works well with the blade. If I were to use a blade I don't think I would want to have much less power than the 272X provides.

I've called several local dealers & here's what they're recommending:

RedMax 2401 for $280
Husq 326ldx for $369
JD XT120 for $270
Stihl FS110R for $350

Which of these is the better trimmer?

Decided on a Redmax 2601 for $310.

I like the Shindaiwa T242, I have the M242 with string trimmer head. I like it a lot. Very easy to start, quiet and enough power. It should be in range of $279 to $299.

Before I comment any further, I have to say I never use a Redmax Strato trimmer or a Stihl 4Mix before. When I was deciding on what brand to buy a month ago, I read a lot a lot of posts. There are some complains on the Redmax 2401 and 2601 engines. Main complains were hard to start and need a long warmup time before it will work well. Stihl 4Mix trimmers have there share of complains on valves. I didn't see any complain on the T242. I decided to go with 242 and I love it. As I said, this is "hear say"!! Go read more yourself.

Husky 326LDX is a multi tool like my M242, more expensive. Look into 326Lx instead.

BTW, I bought multitool M242 mainly for short reach articulate hedge trimmer attachment. Only Shindaiwa and Husqvarna have short reach hedge attachment. Something to consider and I can tell you it work just as well as a normal hedge trimmer for normal stuff and it has benefit of reaching higher. I totally use it in place of my regular Echo HC151 hedge trimmer now.