My next saw is going to be an Excalibur. I don't have plans to get one right now, but it is on the list. I have a Hitachi that is 4 years old and nearing the end of its life, I also have a single speed Hegnar that is as old as I am (28 years old).
My husband was teasing me the last time he had to replace the switch on my Hitachi about what would I do if it was completely dead. I told him I would cry and be miserable until he bought me an Excalibur to replace it, he said "isn't that the $1,200 saw", I said "yeah, but the $800 would do in a pinch". He was much more motivated to get the $1 switch replaced on my Hitachi.
My Hegnar runs good, but it is single speed and that is irritating. I also don't understand why they don't come with quick blade changing hardware, you have to buy that separately.
I have used the dewalts, I have 2 at school. For the amount of dust I make, I want a better one. For me it would be worth saving every penny for twice as long to get the one I really wanted.