The Stihl and the Echo are great lines and it really depends on personal preference.
As mentioned above, the prices in Canada are different than the US much like everything else.
I would also agree with the above poster, that someone like the OP, can also consider the Shindaiwa in the same group.
Same company as Echo and they have some great promotions from time to time. We had T242 Shindaiwa on for $299.95, which for Canada is a great deal IMHO.
Here is a quick comparison of some of the basis stats: