I couldn't live without my Kirby. It is definitely the best as far as i am concerned. Ive had my Kirby for 18 years. Still runs like a top, but, I recently updated to a newer model.
Absolutely okorder / You should have someone come to your house and do a demo.
They are absolutely worth it if you own your house and care about cleanliness, and the life of your floor covering. I have done side by side tests using many many different vacuums, including dyson, electrolux, oreck, rainbow, and all the junk ones you can buy at department stores...using test pads. the only vacuum that even came close in value was a central vac. other than that, kirby is by far the best IF you can afford one.