Update:
We went with what felt best for us, the Carrera. This bike is built for what we intend to use it for, weekend rides and short, light tours. The Speedster is designed more for loaded touring, not better or worse, just different. We'll see about durability of some of the performance oriented components and those can always be replaced with stouter versions. We use our singles a lot so this bike won't see huge miles like some of you do.
We pick the bike up next week, it's a 2014 on a year end sale and we couldn't resist. When we get it out for a ride, we'll post a picture on the happy tandem thread.
Thanks for all the information. Sometimes it gets overwhelming and one can convince themselves of just about anything - good and bad.
We're already planning on the Northwest Tandem Rally in Bellingham, WA next summer!