Alex,
I recently replaced my old SEARS belt sander. I looked at the Delta. Most of my power tools are Delta or Porter Cable. However I bought the Hitachi after consulting with a friend who does millworking. His idea (right or wrong) was that a 1" belt may actually cut into the wood you are not very careful. Since he is doing woodworking for 42 years I took his advise. I got a Hitachi SB10Y 4" belt and 8" disc. It was $129.00 in Lowes. It works GREAT. Also 4" is a common belt you can get anywhere. This however is a single speed. I am still trying to find an adhesive so I can make my own PSA 8" discs. If anyone knows of one please let me know.

Just my .02.

BTW the Delta and the Hitachi were the same price in Lowes.