No I am still happy with our ducted vacuum. You only have to change the bag once a year. "Lugging" the hose around is still better than dragging the machine behind you everywhere. You can go for long hose and two inlets or short hose and more inlets. But some friends went even better: they have one of those sucky things under the sink connected to the central vacuum so you can do a quick dustpan-brush job without the dustpan. They also had their vacuum ducts fitted halfway up the wall instead of near the floor - no bending!

Years ago when records were still played, I used to put on George Michael's album and play songs like "Faith" and attempt to blow the walls out, just loved it but for the moment I'm building the new home and want to have a few rumba's to vacuum for me, so probably won't need to play too much music for them ha-ha

I have one. I actually think they have more suction than most vacuum cleaners as the motor is a lot larger. I have had mine for 22 years with no problems. I think they are very convenient The brand I have is Astrovac. I would recommend it and would do it again if building again.

Shoes are removed before entering the house and mat at the door so those bases are covered but stones still get tracked in. I use the hardwood head but the stones get caught and dragged in the felt underneath. I’ve just resorted to the old fashioned broom. Slower but no risk of scratching.