BSWALKS
Fugitive From Reality
Well, maybe I'll just jump in and chance it with the Coopers. I want to get them locally because a) it keeps the local economy going, and b) he will stand behind what he sells in case of a problem. Also, free rotations and flat fixes. If the $ difference is astronomical I definitely take the Tire Rack, etc. route.
About studded tires, you can't really use them when snow clears, can you?
I also use a local tire co. I would reccomend a winter tire for your car. It's like night & day compared an all season, even though some a/s tired are very good in the snow. Cooper has a winter tire I put on a Corolla last year. Around $300.