Riding a Trek, a Fisher, and a Specialized in that price range a few years ago, I liked the Specialized best in terms of fit and geometry, and it was the best deal in terms of components overall in the end too. The Trek rode like a barcalounger, the Fisher the exact opposite with weight over the front and noticeably disjointed suspension from fork to rear shock, and the FSR XC was like Goldilock's porridge. The only real point to take away from that is to try more out and figure out which one feels best for you in the right size with the right adjustments for fit in terms of size, geometry, seat adjusment, and shock settings, etc. Just looking at component specs will just have you flipping your lips with your finger. After all was said and done, the Specialized was had for a way better deal too, with $100 of free gear thrown in, another $100 knocked off, great financing that made it worth financing, and very helpful staff at the shop.