Just returned from visiting the store. They had the S2 on display. I immediately was impressed with the ergonomics and screen quality. As mentioned previously, I prefer 4:3 for reading. For some reason it feels incredibly natural in the palm of my hand. I've never had a tablet rest in my hand like that.
I was sold on the S2 and went to Best Buy a few stores down. This one has a Samsung Experience front and center. Of course they had the 8" and 9.7" next to each other for comparison. The larger size is quite impressive in terms of weight and thinness. I came in expecting to grab a white 8", instead I left with the larger one in gold.
I placed both Tab S devices on Craigslist last night. Time to put the iPad Air on there before the Air 3 is released!