Yamaha DTXpress/DTXplorer/DTXtreme

Hello to the group,

I have enjoyed reading the content in this group and I have learned
quite a bit from it.  I am interested in learning to play the drums
(casually) and I want to go with an electronic set because I need the
ability to be able to play with headphones and do not have much space
for a drumset.  I have narrowed my choices down to the DTXpress II and
the V-Club.  I am leaning towards the Yamaha but it seems that all of
the salespeople in the stores say that the Roland is far superior for
just a little bit more money.  I tend to like the features of the
Yamaha but the salespeople seem to say there is a big difference in
the sound. My question is, if hypothetically both sets were roughly
the same cost would most members of this group still purchase the
Yamaha?

Also, I have read that the rubber pads on the V-Club tend to dry out
and not age well.  Is this a problem with the rubber on the DTXpress
II also?

Many thanks in advance for your input.

Todd