I'm shopping for a fluid trainer - like the looks of CycleOps and Kurt Kinetic - both around $400 - I'd like to get opinions on these two or any others that might be comparable or better

I have a kurt kinetic with the extra flywheel. Haven't used anything else so can't really compare. The build quality and structural integrity seems sound, it's not that loud, and it runs fairly smooth. Warranty seems pretty good. Only problem I've had so far is that the pin that attaches the extra flywheel has become "stuck" so I can't get the heavier flywheel off, it's probably an easy fix under warranty but it doesn't really bother me.

Whatever you buy just make sure it's not a blackburn. Total crap trainers. That said more people seem to recommend the Kurt since it won't ever leak. The newest version of the 1up trainer is supposed to be very good too.

I have a KK Road Machine. Although it's my first trainer ( for my first road bike ), it's been PERFECT. Everything I expected ( quality, performance, quietness, etc ) for the right price.

Keep a look out for deals - I got mine for $249 from Sports Authority during a sale.

I have a Nashbar Fluid trainer in Canada which I used for many years and was quite pleased with.

I have a Fluid Fluid trainer here in Australia, which I have used just a little bit so far, but it reminds me very much of the Nashbar Fluid trainer which I was quite pleased with.

The Kurt Kinetic is built like a tank. Great quality.
I bought mine from the manufacturer. They have them on sale from time to time as demo units - stuff they bring to races, trade shows, etc. They sell for about 60% of retail.

On their web site, look for Special Products on the left side. (nothing there today)

The Kurt might cost you $400 but it's the only $400 you'll ever have to spend on a trainer