Two of my 3 Carlton machines have been remote control. The latest one was a lever control. most lever control machines I have run leave something to be desired in viewing the cutting head. The Carlton is a little hard to see around. However, after a learning period, I found I just grind by sound and feel of the machine. I do not need to really look directly at the cut I am making. I guess I am saying, "you will get used to it".
I have not run a Vermeer, but in shopping around, have looked at them, and read a lot about them. In my opinion, Vermeer builds an "OK" machine, but nothing special. Vermeer stump grinders seem to be an afterthought, as the company is really into other lines of equipment in a lot bigger way. The design and technology always seems to be a step or two behind Carlton and Bandit. There has been a lot of info posted here over the years about all the problems with Vermeer stump grinders. Having said that, I am sure many people like their Vermeers. However, given the choice, I would still go with a Carlton.
Jeff