ULA Circut or SMD Comet

While I own and really like a SMD Comet, (I used it for a thru-hike of the Tahoe Rim Trail this summer), it sounds like you are happy with the pack you have.
The weight difference between the two packs is small, and volumes are similar, so I'm curious as to why you'd want to change.
As for the Comet, I've found it to be very comfortable with or without the stays. I used a torso length blue foam pad folded into thirds for my virtual frame.
The pad doesn't matter with stays nearly as much, and I went as high as about 30 pounds comfortably.

The sitlight pad won't work well, anything less than 20 inches won't be held tight by the pad pocket.

I Like the ULA Circut a lot. Although I like the virsatilliaty of the SMD Comet. I also like the side pocket configuration more on the SMD than the ULA, Although my main concern was whether using my GG 1/4 WIDE thinlight as support in conjuction with the stays would be enough to support 30 lbs comfortably. As to the SitLight I would be using the SitLight in conjuction with the 1/4 wide for support for frameless mode, or in frame mode, I don't know yet. I guess I need reassurence that the SMD could work for me. I got myself 80% of the way, Just need that last 20% to get over my concerns (as this would be my first frameless pack).