I don't envy your dilemma as I was debating the same thing for months! I was all set to get the Dacor cooktop because of the surface and then the appliance salesperson talked me out of it, he had one and had to replace the top, hated it! So, we ended up getting the Monogram. Don't have it yet, so I can't tell you how it performs.

mominthedubc-
Thanks for your reply- just when I thought that the surface issue was a plus on the Dacor...and was just concerned about the confusion with so many types of burners.....
Let me know how it goes with the GE cooktop when you get it.
Did you purchase GE ovens as well- that is another story- double ovens GE? Thermadore? This goes on and on.

djbinva, I was very interested in the comparison you made as I am looking at the Dacor versus the Monogram. Can you please explain what you mean about each ignitor sparking when you light one burner?

I am wondering if there is a fix for that on the new Monogram that is about to be launched. I know they upped the BTU's to 18,000.

Was also interested in the comment about the surface of the Dacor top -- am trying to figure out which kind of surface will be easiest to keep looking good. Would welcome hearing more about Dacor, GE.

I've had a Monogram 36" 5-burner for 3 years now and love it. I was originally smitten with Dacor's marketing and style. Then I looked at ratings and repair rates and went and looked at the units themselves. I also spent an afternoon putting my head into ovens at a show room. My conclusions -- Dacor is for the kitchen that no one actually cooks in; looks pretty but not really practical or the best use of space. Monogram cooktops and Thermador (or Kitchenaid) ovens are for those of us who actually use the appliances. The Monogram cooktop has been a gem. 4 big points -- controls are on top, where children are less likely to be able to reach and turn them; grates are cast iron -- will last forever and develop a nice "patina" with use; BTUs are more than you'll likely need (biggest challenge is getting the flame low enough); and stainless steel sealed burner units are the only way to go. Large 5th burner is great for oversized pots. I find that Monogram's "medium" setting is more than hot enough for most cooking that I do, and after an initial browning, I'm often more near "low" or "simmer" - so there is more than enough BTUs.

Dacor ovens are very small on the inside. Thermador and Kitchenaid will give you the most interior space and have a covered heating unit (cal rod). Much easier to keep clean and avoid burning yourself. I've had the Thermadors for 3 years (double 30" ovens) and can cook amazing amounts for holidays and parties. When we entertain, we cook; we do not order out or have it catered, so having great equipment with great space is critical -- especially when you're cooking for 20+.

I have a Monogram 36" cooktop w/grill and truly enjoy it. The simmer on all burners is great and I like the grates that are reversible to use a wok on. I would find each burner having a different capacity to be confusing. I also have a GE Profile electric oven which I enjoy. I looked at the Monogram oven but could not see much difference in them for the amount of price difference. Convection fan is quiet and it puts very little heat out into the room. I have never had an oven where the glass on the door did not get hot.