Thanks for the extensive reply! Your comments about the Renaissance sleepers in comparison to the Budd ones does make me a bit more excited to be travelling in such accomodations.
On the Ocean, booking with points is a standard rate for long distance sleeping accomodations. I asked specifically about this, and was informed that the amount of points required on the Ocean is the same for any accomodation (except the larger Park car bedroom). Berths, single bedroom, or double (regardless of the type of equipment) require the same amount of points, varying only between sleeper and sleeper touring classes. You can see the point charges for the Ocean here:
https://www.viapreference.com/en/redeem-points
So in that regard, I was not swindled in any manner. I am still going to be travelling in Sleeper Touring class in the Cabin for two, just now on the other type of equipment. I do expect that the ride will be smooth and quiet, and I've heard VIA has made recent improvements to the Renaissance beds to make them somewhat more comfortable. I don't really care if I have a room with a shower, as I doubt I would use it anyway. Though if I do, I might give it a try.
I have eaten in both the Ren and Budd diners, and the food isn't really that much different. I could tell at least some of it was reheated, but I did have some preference for the Budd menu in the past. I believe though that they've change the menu up for the Christmas season, and someone had told me the menu is to be the same on both sets of equipment this winter. We'll see. Either way, my food is all paid for, so I'll be happy to eat anyways. Even if it is reheated, there's something about the diner atmosphere on the train that just makes it seem that much better! I'll likely get at least supper on the trip to Montreal (in December, in the Budd roomette), so I will be able to directly compare the two meal services this winter.
When I've made the two trips, I'll post a proper trip report on here with my full thoughts on the experience, and how it relates to my many past trips on the Ocean.