Its my favorite so far as well. Not by huge margins but enough to hold me till the promise of something better happens along. Honestly I could've tolerated 7.1.2 or 7.1.3 forever but prefer 8.1 by the smallest of margins. Tho I too found the need to back off my non-specific SAM profile a significant amount... from 92 to 44. For me, hands-down, best yet and I'll stay here awhile... least till over-familiarity or the itch for adventure creeps in.
Statements in my posts are opinion only, not to be construed as fact. Any projects I engage in are at my own risk! Their outcome cannot be assured and may result in success, small/no change or catastrophic failure. I encourage no one rely on anything I say or do as gospel and to realize your mileage may vary!