I haven't paddled the "high end" boats, but I've had a Necky Looksha IV in "tupperware" for about a year. Over the winter, I built a Chesapeake 17' and had it in the water by Memorial Day. In my experience, the differences include:

— the CLC at 42 lbs. is significantly lighter and faster than the Looksha

— the CLC tracks MUCH straighter than the Looksha, even when paddler experience is removed from the equation. In a leaned turn, the CLC is quicker

— the CLC has much more initial stability than the Looksha

— the CLC is "pretty"; it never fails to draw comments & compliments any place I've stopped; it's a great conversation starter

— there is an incredible pride of ownership/craftsmanship from building your own boat

I originally got the Necky because I was in a hurry to get out on lakes and I couldn't afford a fiberglass/kevlar boat. My girlfriend has now "assumed" ownership of the CLC, so I plan to build another S&G this winter. (Storage space permitting, I still plan to keep the Necky.)