Im not a fan of the original XL model and they seem to come up a lot on auction sites. I have yet to use an Oreck that is quiet. The later models with the slide in bag dock are easier to rely on though as the bag isn't liable to fall off through use and thus pepper the internal bag with dust. In terms of cleaning, I have always admired the brush rolls as they are bushy and soft in general. However a few models have plastic fans that are liable to break over the more commercial version which has a metal fan for better longevity.

More modern Orecks (sadly in the UK we only have a few older models) with open rear wheels makes it a heck of a lot easier to wheel away after usage. However, the better one I have so far found is a TTi product, the Hoover Signature, only its called the Vax VCU02 here. It has a similar push on bag to the older Oreck but a much bigger dust channel to prevent the bag from coming off. It is noisy but not as noisy as our old Oreck. The compromise you make with this model is that the permanent rear handle gets in the way for true flat to the floor cleaning and doesn't benefit from the Oreck helping handle. 

Also, although both these models and generic Orecks have a similar design outright, at the base spine due to the thrust of suction the machines can clog, requiring dismantling. The Vax I have doesn't suffer from this much though I do check it perodically - and I've been generally impressed with this vacuum since my Gtech sweeper is awaiting a new handle to arrive due it being used as a quick daily driver and though the dust bags aren't as big as Oreck, they're still pretty big at nearly 8 litres. However I have noticed that as soon as the bags start to get really heavy with dirt, the vacuum isn't as lightweight to push anymore, especially on medium carpet - that's when I rely more on my Sebo X uprights or the Felix.

Try checking your local Big Lots frequently. I found my Pilot there for $129. Oreck does a fantastic job on their factory refurbs, just like new. 

You can't even compare the original Orecks to the Pilot or XL21. They are far quieter, have better brushrolls, and clean a heck of a lot better. I have a very deep pile carpeting and my Pilot is one of my only vacuums that will actually pull itself on it. I'd definitely recommend one in a heartbeat.

Chase

It isn't a screamer like the XL2's, Plus the motor is bigger, beffy-er and more metal-er!

It does a nice job on carpets, And is handy to have and whip out in an instance when there's dust to be tackled!

I highly recommend older Orecks, After lending them my Kirby and a Commercial Fantom, I rebuilt my neighbor and friend an XL-Commercial unit, which they still love and use all these years later! Just recently (July) I gave their Mother (And Friend) a XL9100 I refurbished for her. She loves it! All they used before was a little Dirt-Devil carpet sweeper, they never did drag out their Rainbow or Dirt Devil!

-Alex.