Yeah, the PM is a tough pill to swallow, even with their 10% off sale. It seems like the "best" choice, but no DRO, p!$$ poor casters, but you do get a 5 year warranty. Whatever that means, these days.
Also, it is crazy how the prices have changed, since your initial post, in July 2021. 1.5 years and the PM has jumped up $1,000, Baileigh has jumped up $800, and South Bend has basically stayed the same. Not sure on the other planers you mentioned, but I am sure those jumped in price, too.
The Baileigh IP156-HH looks 99.99% like the PM, but only 1 year warranty. Sure, you could save yourself ~$400, but maybe the extra $400 for the PM would be worth the warranty coverage?
Also, at the price points of $4k+, one might start considering the Hammer\Minimax JP's, if space is an issue. Woodmizer has a JP, that you don't need to change over from a jointer to planer\planer to jointer, but no option for helical. Also, it is $5,400+ (sale currently).
MP160 Jointer Planer. You can joint a 12" and plane a 16" board.. which is great, but then again... way over the price of the PM and if one can't currently afford one of these 15" planers, this Woodmizer option (as well as Hammer, Minimax, etc.) would 100% be out of the equation.
It is always nice to dream.. and trust me.. I am dreaming about these tools almost daily... "Sure would be nice to have...."
Glad you are still enjoying your 735. My 734 is still "resting", and has been, for the last 3-3.5 years.