I agree with the other posters. Go to Dayton. It is quite the experience.
Over the years, I have changed my approach to Dayton. I generally don't bother with the flea market anymore. As others have stated, the flea market is not as large as it used to be and unless you get there first thing Friday morning, the tables will have been picked over. Heck, the flea market vendors walk around as others are setting up just to see what deals they can find even before the general public is allowed through the gates. It's not "kosher", but it happens. For used equipment, I prefer the smaller hamfests. The selection often isn't as broad, but the prices are often more reasonable and the sellers easier to bargain with.
I now go to Dayton primarily for new equipment. I like to visit the various manufacturer booths to find out what's new. This gives me a chance to handle the equipment, talk to the manufacturer reps, and learn more about the equipment than I would from magazine ads or reviews. I also pick up brochures which I bring home and file.
If I'm looking to buy something new, I visit all of the dealers to check their prices. Amateur Electronic Supply, Ham Radio Outlet, The Ham Station, KJI Electronics, R&L Electronics, and Universal Radio all typically have large booths at Dayton. Yes, they have show prices. If you watch closely, you'll see reps from the major dealers along with reps from the major radio manufacturers milling around checking the prices. The prices on popular equipment will generally be pretty competitive, but you may find one dealer who has gotten a price break from the manufacturer.
Don't forget about sales tax if you buy from a dealer. Dayton is in Montgomery County and I think the sales tax rate is 6.75%. If the dealer delivers the item to you at the show, they are obligated to collect the sales tax. Ohio Department of Revenue agents walk around the show on Friday morning to make sure the dealers are collecting the correct sales tax. One exception I have found is with AES--if you don't want to take the item with you, they will usually take an order for an item at the show and ship it to you (free shipping) on Monday. If they ship to an address in a state where they don't have a store, they won't collect the sales tax, either. In the past, I have placed orders with AES at the show on Friday that they then ship from Milwaukee or Cleveland on Saturday and it's on my doorstep on Monday. Great service!