Then would you guys think that the aristocrats would be a good replacement for the smoke and mirrors?
I personally think that modern USPCC decks are all handle great. If you are talking about using the, I think it's fine either you use Aristrocrat or SM v6. But from collector point of view, v6 are much more famous.
True, but from a consumer viewpoint, Aristos are cheaper and more easily found.
Could you tell us in what sense you want to "replace" the S&M series? Collection, magic, cardistry, card games?
Collection: any S&M is more valuable than the Aristocrat reprints; the older, the better, naturally.
Magic: either will do fine; Aristos are cheaper.
Cardistry: S&M work well by and large, some think the Aristos aren't as good for flourishing, but there's always the old standby, Tally Ho decks, available super-cheap from T11. Use cheap Bikes or Studs for learning new stunts and heavy practicing.
Card games: same as magic, see above.