Thanks for the advice. I am going to a LBS today that is a Specialized dealer to see what they have on hand and see what feels good.
I was afraid you were going to say that FS could very well be applicable to me. There are some rough areas with lots of palmetto roots, rocks and small drop offs that a FS would be nice. I guess the downside of going FS is that with the $1500 budget I would be back kinda where I am in now from the perspective of a entry level bike (like my TREK 4300 disc is to HTs).
The FS route would take me to the TREK Fuel EX5, Konda One20, or Specialized FSRxc Comp all of which are low end FS (and pushing the budget pending actual LBS price vs msrp).
For some reason that Rockhopper SL Pro has really caught my eye. Any other thoughts/suggestions for the confused? Thanks.