Transponder?

Trying to decide between the Sandia STX165, which has an encoder, and intercom built in. VS. the Garmin GTX 327, which has neither encoder or intercom. Am going with the Dynon D-180 which has an encoder so it still seems that the Sandia with the intercom is a good way to go.
Thinking there must be some opinions floating around the circuit

Either are good choices for transponder function. The included encoder on the Sandia is a definite advantage plus the OAT if you don't already have that function. I don't see that the Sandia includes an intercom though.