Just an update, I missed an obvious configuration option that will allow me to test. The 1tb SSD and the four 6tb HDD's. Still comes out well under the $900 of my original plan.
I have another machine that doesn't need a massive drive, but I was planning to toss in the 4tb I have with only 10k hours on it. (only). What I think I'm gonna do is order a 1tb SSD and the 4x 6tb HDD's and actually do an Apples to Apples comparison. If the RAID 5 array wins for my uses I'll put the 1tb SSD in that other computer. If not, I'll stick to putting the 4tb with "only" 10k hours on it in there.
It's a sound plan and gives me the chance to have an informed opinion instead of wildly guessing.
But thanks all around for the input. I was actually surprised at the number of pro SSD responses, and it only reinforced the fact I felt I was second guessing myself with the all HDD response I was initially favoring.
I'll post results in a few weeks when I have all the parts in hand and have a chance to take them head-to-head.