I agree,
It's hard to really get a good feel for any one machine when you are in a expo setting. So many external variables to deal with too. (noise, distractions, etc...) Having a level pin is really hard to come by for some strange reason! The music (to me) plays a BIG part in what makes a good machine great. You don't usually get to hear the full range when playing amongst 100's of others. So unfortunately, you kind of have to just rely on the light show and layout during those situations.
At least you had fun!
CAX is coming up pretty soon so I'd definitely recommend going to that as well SMT.
It has the best of both worlds!

Of course you can SMT! That's what the Pinside "Top 100" is all about!

Says the guy with SS on his wishlist!

Sometimes a pin should just be plain fun and SS delivers that on all counts. Deserves "hype" IMHO. The sound/voicework, artwork, lighting and 3D-ish interactive BB makes it unique. Plus it's 'effing ELVIRA!
'Spider Multiball' still takes a bit of work to achieve...