I've stayed at Swan, Dolphin, BWV, BCV, CR, Polynesian, ASMusic, POP, POR. I love the Dolphin..just booked it for my July trip. Now, my dd, 14, thinks the S/D are Disney challenged (her words!!), and would rather stay elsewhere. Her choice is Dolphin vs home!!
Do you miss anything Disney at the S/D? Perhaps. But, I love the atmosphere there. I love the Epcot area resorts. I love the pool area at the S/D.
I guess it all depends on what you are looking for. If you want to be submerged in Disney, 24/7, then you may not be quite as happy at the S/D. You can't use DME there, and you can't charge back to your room, other than at the S/D shops. Those are just minor issues for me.
I don't have to have Mickey on my bedspread to let me know where I am. Likewise, I don't need the Mickey soaps...just love the toiletries at the S/D. I love being able to walk to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.