S9 Elite vs Escape

So I've read a number of posts regarding the S9 series. I have been using CPAP for 8-9 years now (7 cm) and have experienced very few problems with the therapy after the initial hurdle of adjusting to the mask, etc. I've been using a Respironics M series machine for 6 years and the power supply started to fail. So figured it was time for a new machine. Never had an issue with the unit itself in all that time. I use nasal pillows, and have been through a couple of different masks. Currently I'm using the Swift FX with fairly good results, much better since I replaced the pillows after a long time without doing so.

I am not a maintenance type. I wash the nasal pillows occasionally, and if I have a cold or other illness I am more diligent. I haven't been using a humidifier, but that may change with the new machine as I've had more congestion in the AM with winter in full force here in MA (and I'm wondering if the lack of a humidifier is leading to some tooth and gum issues the dentist is seeing now). I'm probably about as laid back as it comes with the therapy, but I use the machine every night, all night (even for the occasional planned nap) and it works for me. I'm a heavy sleeper. I sleep straight through the night. Feel good in the mornings. I don't see a sleep doctor because the therapy seems to be working for me as is. I'm basically thankful to be in a set it and forget it mode with the CPAP.

So my question then is, with all that as background, I highly doubt I'm going to look at the data that the Elite tracks. It may be nice to have, but then again, I haven't missed the data in the past 8+ years with the Respironics. When I got my new machine, I specifically asked for the S9 as the unit is so highly thought of. However, I didn't notice it was an Escape rather than an Elite (common pitfall I now see). It's called a brick here and slammed seemingly because it does not provide full data. OK, for some patients that want to track their sleep and apnea that is very important. For me, it's not. So is it called a brick for that reason alone (meaning my M series was a brick as well)?

More importantly, is there any performance difference between the two other than the data tracking? And is there any reason other than the data availability to choose the Elite over the Escape? If I don't look at the data (judgments aside), is there a performance reason that should prompt me to go back and swap the Escape for an Elite?

I am not particularly interested in being more involved with my therapy at this point if it's working, and it seems to be working for me. I just want a reliable machine that I can use and tolerate night after night. I may need to get used to the EPR vs the C-flex with Respironics. Although it took me a little longer to fall asleep last night, perhaps bec the EPR was off, I nevertheless slept soundly through the night.

Thanks for the insights. I just got the machine 2 days ago, so figure I would give a run for a while. It's certainly quiet compared to the M series Respironics and a lot lighter for travel. . .

Other than the data availability the machines function the same and will do the same job in the same manner.
The only thing you would be missing is the data the Elite gathers.

Just be aware that with the Escape, should you start to get symptoms down the road and you're not sure if a pressure adjustment is needed, there will be no information from the machine to help you or your doctor evaluate. I rarely download my data anymore, but I wouldn't want to be flying blind with my therapy either. And given the small cost differential of the two machines, why not use the one that contains the therapy effectiveness data in case it could prove helpful along the way.

I have the S9 Autoset and I can view my daily stats on the LCD readout every morning. If you can do it - exchange your machine for the auto set with your numbers on it.

If you have an Escape then when there are problems you will need a sleep study to figure it out and you will not be able to catch it early and tweak things. And I assure you that as we age more issues come up and bite you in the ass or neck as the case maybe when you least expect it.

Leak data, above all, can tell you when a mask needs new silicone or adjustment.
Unless your leaks are under control, you cannot know if your therapy air is even making it inside.