XRAY - Model racing cars

I'm looking to get back into rc cars after about a 15 year hiatus. I can't decide between an electric 4wd 1/8 or 1/10, and I also can't decide on which brands I should consider.

All I know is i'm after something high end (knowing that i'll have a car that far exceeds my skill level, but I don't care). I understand that 1/8 is generally more durable, which is a good thing, but it seems that all of the latest kits are 1/10? I have two local tracks, 1 indoor clay and the other outdoor dirt.

Can anyone recommend which brands/models I should look at for 4wd kits,esc's,motors,after market parts etc? North American availability is also a requirement. The local tracks/hobby shops (Orange County, CA) only carry associated/tlr/kyosho but i'm much more impressed with the cars coming out of xray and durango. I'm sure there's many other good brands i'm completely unaware of.