But I for one would prefer if you lurked about and continued giving advice. You are one of the few who gives useful advice.
Re the Burton thing I only know about boards that I actually rode or owned. In the beginning I met Jake, borrowed a board and for years was 100% Burton, it was a personal loyalty thing. I broke my first Cruzer (inserts ripped out) but it was replaced no questions under warranty. Only other thing I broke was Flex bindings on my M6. That made me switch to plates but I never tried Burton plates.
The key reason why I stopped buying Burton was the 3-hole insert pattern. I just can't be bothered with a non-standard insert pattern.
But I was never a racer and I've never ridden any of their race decks. So I have no opinion on their alpine offerings.
Anyway whatever, do what you've go to do.
Happy trails ! :D