Both systems are good. I prefer the Trane.

Not true. The salesman must have been talking about the XL20i from Trane, which does have two compressors -- the XR15 and every other product by Trane uses one compressor only.

I'm surprised the Carrier system costs more than the Trane. I'd expect the opposite.

Thank you for your quick reply, appreciate it.

Same with other contractors, Carrier is more expensive than Trane and all of them recommended Carrier over Trane. I wonder why?

Great Post!
I am in your situation almost exactly.
My first estimate came with a rec. of Carrier, Trane, or Bryant for the same type of system you describe.
My guy went with Bryant as they are made by Carrier, but less expensive. He said no to Trane as I live in Florida but 10 miles from the water and he would have suggested Trane as it has aluminum coils which would have been better for rusting if I lived my the water.
He is giving me your air handler but the Bryant Legacy 215A as I do not want a 2 speed compressor. Since my elec. bills are low, he said the extra money for the Bryant Preferred 16 seer heat pump would not be a good enough pay back for the outlay.
Anyway my price is $6570...quite a bit higher for something that is supposed to be cheaper than Carrier.

Any comments here would be appreciate. I have 3 more "salesmen" coming, and I know someone is going to add Rheem to the list. From what I've read about Rheem, you either love them or you experience has been so bad that you hate them.

So to you question:what is the best variable speed air handler with humidity controls matched with a single speed 15 seer heat pump?

Thanks.

Lenore