Shopping for a water softener

Hi,

I am shopping around for a water softener and need some advise. Basic reqirement for a 3 person h/hold. I also need a chlorine remover. (carbon filter?!?, reverse osmosis??/) The hardness of the water is around 24.3 gpg.

I have eliminated Kinetico, Culligan, Rainsoft(too pricey) Basically narrowed down to three or four brand names (Kenmore, Fleck, Clack and GE and Excalibur). The last one comes with chlorine remover!!! retailing for about $1350/- not sure about the quality though...

Fleck and Clack look to be favourable price wise but am hesitant as I am not at all handy.

Based on the info provided could someone advise which one would give me the 'best bang for the buck'.

PS: What is the difference between a Fleck 9000 series and Fleck 5600 series as the former is way more expensive...

Thanks

Rags