We're just starting out on our new kitchen (designer coming next week), and as part of this we'll be replacing all of our almond colored appliances with stainless steel. We have a pretty good idea of which appliances we want, and since we have time, I'm willing to look for discounts/deals and store the appliances if necessary (just purchased an open box Advantium 240 OTR for $650 this way).

I've located a Bosch 800 plus dishwasher, the SHE68E15UC, at a dealer locally for $998. The DW is new, but I'm a bit nervous about it since it was discontinued 3 years ago. From what I gather, the main difference between this model and the newer ones is that the newer models are a little quieter and more efficient. Should I wait and look for a newer model, try to get another 10%, ask for extended warranty,...? We have hard water, so I would like to get the water softening capability of the Plus line.