I got a Stihl about 6 years ago. It will reach 16'. Pretty sweet, and no problems with it so far. It does get kinda' heavy extended all the way out though. About 20 minutes worth of cutting, and I'm ready for a break.
I also got the angled head, which if I remember correctly is at a 35º angle. Thought it would save getting pinched on bigger limbs. Never used it yet though...
Yeah, it was pricey, but I bought it to use here, and only here. Definitely not to lend out. So if I take care of it, it should last me a lifetime.