I got the green light to put a wood stove in my house from the wife. I do have to re do the kitchen to do it, but it happens. I should start off by saying I would like almost heat my house with a stove (1200 sq. single floor ranch). I've been talking to a few guys at work and they swear by the vermont castings intrepid 2, Ive also been looking at regency stoves, they seem pricey. I know its wrong but Ive been looking at TSC, the have a United States company stove, seem hit or miss. I would like to have something that would be able to load at night, go to bed and reload before going to work. I'm sure the furnace will kick on during the work day, but I plan to set it low, like around 60. I don't have to worry about fire wood, I spin wrenches part time for a tree and firewood company. I would also like something that would sit close to the wall, I know that there has to be clearance, but I don't need tripping over it all the time. I would like to spend about 600 - 700 buck on the stove. not to sure about that whole catalyst thing either. Thanks Mark