First let me say, you have a wonderful wife. Next, I don't really know anything about the Nords either, other than the C1, which I absolutely love, love, love (and not just until the next model comes out). They have an excellent reputation among those that own them but they don't have nearly the (market) coverage of the big three.

IN MY OPINION, they are the epitome of a "pro" instrument, in that they are extremely well built, well voiced, and price-wise, "kinda high" (remember, one requirement for being a "pro" instrument is that it be at least slightly overpriced ).

As far as that red color, well I guess these guys just listen to a different drummer, but I'm guessing you'll be seeing a lot more of them in the future.

chas