I agree you got to get into your local shop and feel them out. I was similar to you and built out a bow for just around $1400.
I ended up going with the Elite Terrain, really solid bow for the price point.
I was looking at "the mule" as the next addition to my bow. What are your thoughts/ review of it? Does it hold up?
I like the idea of it having multiple functions but I havent been able to find too many reviews of it, curious to hear everyones take on it.