I ended up getting the Osprey Aether 85 which is quite comfortable with a 35-45 pound load (and possible more) for those times when carrying a larger water load is unavoidable. It is 5 pounds (size L) versus my current pack weighing 3.5 pounds. The external hydration sleeve is nice and I have more space for my bag which at 1 pound 9 ounces is light but bulky since I try not to over compress it, just using the non-compression stuff sack that came with it.

If I were looking for a thru-hiking pack instead of a backpacking pack, something 2 pounds or less would be needed.

Good to hear you are enjoying your Aether as well.

Tim