Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

On several occasions I saw the VitaMix demo'd at Costco, but I didn't spring for it, primarily because of the price. But neighbors have one, and they've made nut butters for me, which you can't do with a regular blender. My old bar-style blender bit the dust, so I needed a replacement quickly. I checked Cuisinart and KitchenAid models here at Amazon, and I read quite a few reviews, especially the one-star and two-star comments. I wanted to know what people didn't like, or what quality issues might be worth noting. Obviously Cuisinart and KitchenAid sell thousands of blenders to thousands of happy people, but I didn't like reading about leaking jars, motor problems, and returns. I encourage you to do a little reading about these products, including the VitaMix, before you buy. I think there may be a decline in manufacturing quality on some of the well-known brands. Basically with VitaMix, if something goes wrong, which is unlikely, they take care of it without delay. So ... I decided to go ahead and spring for a VitaMix, and I saw that this newer model was available. Yes, it's pricey, but you can apply for an Amazon Store Card, and on a purchase this expensive there is a six-month interest-free option, so that makes buying one manageable for lots of people, including me. That's exactly how I paid for it. It's a very powerful machine, it has a new lid on the jar which is more snug fitting. Not as noisy as my last blender, which was a real banshee screamer. The only thing I might criticize is the recipe book that comes with the unit is focused on fruity, sweet drinks. Well, that's fine, we all love that stuff, but the machine can do much more than make frappucinos. You can puree roasted eggplant to add to chicken stock for soup, you can make superb pasta sauces, pestos, and savory dips. This is a tool for people who like to cook and make things with fresh ingredients. If your needs are very basic, like a morning smoothie, you may not need this much power. I did laugh when I unpacked my unit and saw that it has a 3-prong plug, and a fairly sturdy cord. This is not your average kitchen blender! If the pocketbook will allow it, and if you are something of a foodie, I think it's a good investment, it'll likely last forever and expand your horizons in the kitchen. It sure has delighted me.