The slx 25 is cheaper than the equivalent pole from facelift....
And the six comes with hose and adapter it would have to be something special to sway me away from gardeners.
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a tool. Price is one, of course. Ease of use, another. Speed, lightness, etc.
I think Gardiners have done an excellent job in nurturing devotees of their products. It's got to the stage where some won't even consider that something could possibly be better! Hats off.
Comparing the Phoenix with other poles out there (not just G's) will be very interesting. Time will definitely tell.