So, it turns out that the decision on Banana Pi is a more complicated one. At second sight, it looks like Orange Pi might be better because the prices are lower. However, it turns out that Orange Pi has a host of hardware problems of it own. Even the later Banana Pi models have a host of hardware problems. The very earliest Banana Pi models are really the only ones you would want to get.
And wait, there were signs of legal issues? Well, no, looks like it was just a legal dispute. However, there is a Realtek development board chipset that is problematic, it looks like. However, I believe that is not related to the Allwinner.
On the other hand, the Libre Computer Board has some pretty positive customer reviews on Amazon. So, as is typically the case, libre may be the way to go.
So, this is your most recommended model of Banana Pi: Banana Pi M1. Only the A20 chipset has SATA support built-in. The newer models new a dumbed-down USB bridge adapter.
20180601/DuckDuckGo banana pi legal issues
20180601/https://www.cnx-software.com/2017/09/27/banana-pi-bpi-w2-is-a-features-packed-realtek-rtd1296-development-board/
20180601/https://www.open-electronics.org/legal-dispute-for-bananapi/
20180601/https://www.s-config.com/banana-pi-m3-walk-away/
20180601/https://www.s-config.com/pine64-pine-a64-impression/
20180601/https://www.s-config.com/orange-pi-needs-to-go-back-into-the-oven/
20180601/https://www.s-config.com/banana-pi-case-mod-v2/
20180601/https://www.s-config.com/goodbye-raspberry-pi-hello-banana-pi/