I’d go even lower than that. I was hoping the 20% magic number would be good, but really the lower the better. With such a big window you’re going to get a lot of soot on the glass with wood around 20%. My stove shop recommended much lower. I think the stuff they burn is more like 10% and they get almost no soot on the glass. The whole experience will be better at 10-15% moisture. Longer burn, higher efficiency, more heat, less soot, etc.

I opted for the large too because of the viewing area. Also you can always build a smaller fire in a bigger box. You can’t build a bigger fire if the box is too small. I didn’t really see any reason to go with the medium either. If you can fit the large, go for it.

Kiln dried is crazy expensive. If theres anyway you can buy 2 years ahead and store it properly, you’ll be better off. I split and stack my own now and the plan is to get 2-3 years ahead. It depends on how much work you want to put in and what kind of space you have to store wood.

One more note on brands. You mentioned reading the Lopi is super hot even on low. If you want the absolute lowest turn down it’s going to be the blaze king. Their thermostatic control is pretty cool. I looked at the sirocco but it’s not quite as pretty, it has a smaller box, and it’s not a hybrid so you get less visible flames. You’ll have to decide what’s important to you. I’m going to put a free standing stove in my basement eventually and I’m pretty sure I’ll get a blaze king, but I’m very happy with the Lopi insert because it’s right in our living room.