I just bought a Performer after grilling on a OTS for 12 years. I too balked at the price when it first came out. I needed a new kettle, wanted a OTG as a minimum. I looked at the OTP with it's two side shelves, and looked at the Performer. I decided on the Performer because I like having the large table area, love the gas ignition, and the charcoal bin is nice too. Is it worth $329? It is to me.