Just thought I would follow up. I Purchased a Makergear M2. So far - looks like a very good choice.
I am posting my experience here: http://forum.makergear.com/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=2538

Why the M2? From everything I was able to find, it just works - so far this is the case. It has good support from the manufacturer and community, has good specs (including new all metal hot end), is mostly "open" and the price is reasonable for what you get.

Thanks for the thoughts!