Figure it out after all the conflicting advice?

My take. Look at bikes, you have a good advantage since you work at a bike shop, then choose the one that "does it" for you. As far as materials go, all will be functional. Ti may give a better ride over steel, but of course that depends on the steel and how the frame was made. I ride steel, but don't get me wrong, I think Ti bikes are fantastic, and for a lot of riding I would choose it over carbon fibre. Ti bikes are beautiful.

A carbon fibre bike doesn't do it for me. I have yet to see one that moves me in that way. Many Ti bikes do. Carbon fibre bikes are technically absolutley incredible, but I would choose a Ti bike, and a steel bike over them any day. That is just me, and based on looks and feelings only. I love the way a carbon fibre bike rides and all, but they just don't excite me.

Full disclosure. I still own my 1984 Ross Mt. Rainier, bought new in 1984. It still does it for me. My Surly LHT does as well.