And... keep in mind that the positive stories are pretty much ALL from NatNet and Chilihost... two exceptional hosts.

If you go with a "value host", you will almost certainly not have as good an experience.

BTW, for what it's worth, we have servers in 3 data centers. Until about 6 months ago, I was a big supporter of ThePlanet.com, but their service has gone completely in the toilet (they were sold to a gigantic multinational company.) So be careful who you go with, and ask around - here and maybe on GFY, and maybe on webhostingtalk.com - before you select a host.