I have both the 2.3 with DA-50/pipe combo and 2.6 with DA-100. The 2.3 is hard to keep under 20lbs. You have to purchase after market c/f wing and stab tubes etc to lighten up. You also have to work hard to put all gear and batteries way up front to conteract the light engine. Bare radio equipement is a necessity. Hardest part is putting the rudder servo in front of the fuel tank. It is a blast to fly and easier to transport so it gets flown more than the 2.6. As for power ratio, yes you can hover in have good vertical but I alway wish I had a little more. As soon as the DA-75 comes out, been waiting, waiting, waiting!!!!! will immediately switch. Cost is also a factor, the 2.5 will be 500 to 1000 less to complete. As to which one I prefer to fly? No question, the 2.6. Perfect combination and a real joy to fly.

Now, that being said, I am waiting for the 2X2 Extra. That should have awesome power to weight ratio with the DA-50.
Paul