We have purchased from Signature Hardware often for a tub. They are average priced.

It would be helpful to know what material you are considering. Are you looking at acrylic, cast stone/solid surface (which I find confusing already,) or cast iron?

I chose cast iron and am very pleased. That comes in a variety of prices as well. Design seemed to be the big issue between those tubs with fancy European ones commanding a premium over more basic models. On the low end I liked the Toto cast iron tub- on the high end the tubs from Drummonds were dreamy.

The tubs made of resin from Victoria & Albert and their ilk, those confuse me and it would be nice for someone to explain what warrants a higher price and what makes resin/solid surface a better material than acrylic.

Thank you all! This gives me some good places to start! Am trying to "tub-hop" and tryout the various shapes and features.

Pay attention to all the dimensions. I found there was a lot of variance, for example, in fill height to drain and bottom of tub dimensions. Some were unbelievably skinny on the bottom. I ended up practically having to make a spreadsheet to keep it all straight among the ones I was considering. Look also at how many gallons it holds (does your water heater support that?) and if it's a wide tub, consider if all those gallons have to spread out before coming high enough for a nice bath. I think you will narrow down to the sweet spot of dimensions that work for what you want and what will fit in your space. Some brands are going to hit that and some aren't. That helped me focus on only the ones that fit my specifications.

I did! FINALLY selected the Rianna 6635 by Americh. Found it at a great price on Plumbing Overstock.com and had my local salesman match the price. Was very nervous because I never got to actually see it "in person" before it was installed. However, based on the detailed specifications they provided, when compared to all the tubs I actually sat in, I felt comfortable ordering. LOVE the 115 degree back rest angle, the overall height of 25" is high but not hard to get in and out of and the length of 58" (inside base) is perfect for my 5' 4" frame to lean back with legs fully extended but touching the other side so I don't slip down. Also the width works great for my "curvy" figure! This tub is the bright spot in an otherwise painful remodel process! Good Luck Jenna!