Oh so that's why I'm having to ask on this forum.
I must find a diving place with a pool to test. I'm guessing this is best if I'm going to spend for quality.
Lots of useful info from you guys.
This is the way I would approach the "problem".
Honesty is the best policy. Go to all the shops in your area and tell them that you are on the quest for the "perfect" mask. Explain that you are going to try on masks at different shops and what are their return policies. If the shop is alright with accepting a return, buy it and go to the next shop. If the shop isn't on board with your quest, you might want to look at others for your future LDS.
The quest for the perfect mask is common to all divers and all LDS's should understand. End of the day, you are going to have two masks to choose from.
The biggest benefit is that you will have a better feel for all the LDS's in you area.
BTW, in a mask "quality" is fit, not price, low volume, color, sparkles, purge valves......
I dive a fairly high volume mask, Scubapro Crystal View, and don't give a fart about it not being low volume.