I print on 11"x17". Glass matters. If I print 4"x6", my Canon P&S looks great. I'm pretty sure an 8x10 would look acceptable too. Anything over that and the flaws show.
So, if you plan on seriously printing over an 8x10, then spend the extra money for better glass. If all you plan to do is print a few for the mantle over the fireplace and put on the web, save your money.
AS with all digital cameras, tweaking sharpness in PS or other software does wonders. My guitar thread has used 4 cameras, but mainly my old P&S. I only use a auto tone or auto contrast and smart sharpen. Too much time to do anything else. For the most part it suits me just fine. There are shots that I don't like, color is off, but it has little to do with glass.
In the end, it's up to you. I'm just presenting the facts.
Oh, how many pictures have you actually printed lately?