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Editor's picks

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  Vitamix 5200c - 7 YR WARRANTY Variable Speed Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor and 48-Ounce Jar

  Kitchen (Vitamix)
  

  Rating (30 reviews):

  (4.8/5)

  

  Which Blender Should You Buy?

  My husband and I, after reading Amazon reviews on both Vitamix(older model) and Blendtec, began to be persuaded to buy the Blendtec based on a few arguments. Blendtec owners made it sound as if the tamper that comes with the Vitamix is an absolute chore to use, the manual controls are difficult to understand and use--as opposed to presets--and lastly, the Vitamix is neither visually appealing nor fits underneath kitchen cabinets.So, we headed off to Costco ready to purchase the Blendtec, because in addition to the Amazon reviews, several months ago we had joined in on one of the Blendtec demonstrations(at Costco) and even though it impressed us at that time we were not quite ready to fork over $400 plus for a blender. To our initial disappointment Blendtec was not doing demonstrations that day, nor were these blenders to be found. After picking up a couple things, we started to leave but came upon a Vitamix demonstration. We pretty much had our mind made up on the... 5/5 Morning Joy (WA United States) - See all my reviews This review is from: Vitamix 5200c - 7 YR WARRANTY Variable Speed Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor and 48-Ounce Jar My husband and I, after reading Amazon reviews on both Vitamix(older model) and Blendtec, began to be persuaded to buy the Blendtec based on a few arguments. Blendtec owners made it sound as if the tamper that comes with the Vitamix is an absolute chore to use, the manual controls are difficult to understand and use--as opposed to presets--and lastly, the Vitamix is neither visually appealing nor fits underneath kitchen cabinets.So, we headed off to Costco ready to purchase the Blendtec, because in addition to the Amazon reviews, several months ago we had joined in on one of the Blendtec demonstrations(at Costco) and even though it impressed us at that time we were not quite ready to fork over $400 plus for a blender. To our initial disappointment Blendtec was not doing demonstrations that day, nor were these blenders to be found. After picking up a couple things, we started to leave but came upon a Vitamix demonstration. We pretty much had our mind made up on the... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , February 18, 2012

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  Use it a couple of times a day

  To keep a long story short our two year old son had to have a procedure done to the bottom of his stomach. It was constricted and he could only eat liquid foods. This puts a parent is a mode to find anything to help his kid. We started researching green smoothies which lead us to what product would give us the best results. It came down to Vitamix and Blendtech. We went with the product that gave the 7 year warranty. Now as we fast forward a couple of years our son has recovered from his procedure and can now it solid food. The funny thing is he still prefers his green smoothie to much of anything else. We load it up with Kale, frozen fruit, banana, nuts and coconut oil. This kid has to be one of the healthiest around. We now have two sons and have started the youngest on this drink. He now asks for it as well. Praise God.As the title says we use this a couple of times a day for about 4 years now and started wearing out the drive component and the variable speed... 5/5 Impacted - See all my reviews This review is from: Vitamix 5200c - 7 YR WARRANTY Variable Speed Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor and 48-Ounce Jar To keep a long story short our two year old son had to have a procedure done to the bottom of his stomach. It was constricted and he could only eat liquid foods. This puts a parent is a mode to find anything to help his kid. We started researching green smoothies which lead us to what product would give us the best results. It came down to Vitamix and Blendtech. We went with the product that gave the 7 year warranty. Now as we fast forward a couple of years our son has recovered from his procedure and can now it solid food. The funny thing is he still prefers his green smoothie to much of anything else. We load it up with Kale, frozen fruit, banana, nuts and coconut oil. This kid has to be one of the healthiest around. We now have two sons and have started the youngest on this drink. He now asks for it as well. Praise God.As the title says we use this a couple of times a day for about 4 years now and started wearing out the drive component and the variable speed... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , January 7, 2012

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  Vitamix 5200c

  We've had various brands of blenders in past years, but none have met the quality that I found with this blender. I bought it for my husband for Christmas and since then, we've used it several times so far to make smoothies. I have nothing but praise for the quality of smoothie it made and for the performance. I was skeptical when my husband included apple peels in the mix, from experiencing his concoctions in the past. But, to my surprise, there was no trace of apple peel whatsoever and it was quite delicious and very smooth to drink. If you are thinking of making a purchase, I would tell you not to hesitate. It may be more expensive to buy, but it will last for a long, long time. We are very happy with my purchase! 5/5 Susan P. - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vitamix 5200c - 7 YR WARRANTY Variable Speed Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor and 48-Ounce Jar We've had various brands of blenders in past years, but none have met the quality that I found with this blender. I bought it for my husband for Christmas and since then, we've used it several times so far to make smoothies. I have nothing but praise for the quality of smoothie it made and for the performance. I was skeptical when my husband included apple peels in the mix, from experiencing his concoctions in the past. But, to my surprise, there was no trace of apple peel whatsoever and it was quite delicious and very smooth to drink. If you are thinking of making a purchase, I would tell you not to hesitate. It may be more expensive to buy, but it will last for a long, long time. We are very happy with my purchase! Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , January 1, 2012

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  List Price: $540.00
  

  Speeds Variable speed control, tamper, 2 part easy-to-remove lid, efficient 2 peak HP motor

  $50 bonus gift included in package

  7 YR WARRANTY

  Powerful 2 peak output horsepower motor propels blades up to 240 mph to blend the toughest ingredient

  Includes the NEW 48 oz. capacity BPA-free container designed to create a powerful vortex force ingredients up and back down the center for thorough processing.Includes the NEW 48 oz. capacity BPA-free container designed to create a powerful vortex force ingredients up and back down the center for thorough processing.

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  Vitamix 5200 - 7 YR WARRANTY Variable Speed Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor and 64-Ounce Jar

  Kitchen (Vitamix)
  

  Vitamix 5200

  Vitamix 5200 Standard

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  Vitamix 1709 CIA Professional Series, Brushed Stainless Finish

  Kitchen (Vita-Mix)
  

  Rating (73 reviews):

  (4.6/5)

  

  Will do the things other won't but with some caveats

  After about a week of use, I feel that I am qualified to write intelligently about this blender. I am very sure, and experienced that this very expensive blender will do what most others won't. However, there are some issues I have with the CIA. My first issue is that it has a variable speed control, but yet the manual says not really to use it for too long, or you could overheat the 2 HP motor. You are supposed to start in low, and as rapidly as you can take it all the way to the top speed on the variable control, and then switch it out of variable and into HIGH position.I believe the variable control is there just to keep us from stripping the teeth off of the drive shaft that goes into the gear for the chopping blades. If you just turn it on in high, you will get a grinding noise. This is one of my main complaints.The other complaint is how you can't run it too high, or you can't run it at too low, or you risk shutting the device off for up to 8 hours while... 3/5 Mark Fellows "Gadget Guy" (Baltimore, MD) - See all my reviews This review is from: Vitamix 1709 CIA Professional Series, Brushed Stainless Finish (Kitchen) After about a week of use, I feel that I am qualified to write intelligently about this blender. I am very sure, and experienced that this very expensive blender will do what most others won't. However, there are some issues I have with the CIA. My first issue is that it has a variable speed control, but yet the manual says not really to use it for too long, or you could overheat the 2 HP motor. You are supposed to start in low, and as rapidly as you can take it all the way to the top speed on the variable control, and then switch it out of variable and into HIGH position.I believe the variable control is there just to keep us from stripping the teeth off of the drive shaft that goes into the gear for the chopping blades. If you just turn it on in high, you will get a grinding noise. This is one of my main complaints.The other complaint is how you can't run it too high, or you can't run it at too low, or you risk shutting the device off for up to 8 hours while... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , July 10, 2010

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  Necessity or Luxury?

  Necessity or Luxury: Depends on if you have experienced it (& if you plan on using it regularly)As a guy who takes his smoothies and soups very seriously, it is a necessity for me. While some might argue about the price (Covers the purchase of an average blender every year into perpetuity if purchase price is invested in an annuity), I find comparisons to other blenders moot as the results from the Vitamix is not reproducible by an average blender (no strawberry/blackberry seeds in your smoothie, no bell pepper seeds in your soup). And, cleaning takes seconds!The Motor of the Vitamix 5200 is the same as the CIA Commercial blender and costs a little less. The CIA edition comes with an exhaustive recipe book and a CD. Did I mention the blend sound reminds me of a revving Ferrari? (All the more reason to go RED!) 5/5 Pat Srinivas (Overland Park, KS) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vitamix CIA Professional Series Blender Necessity or Luxury: Depends on if you have experienced it (& if you plan on using it regularly)As a guy who takes his smoothies and soups very seriously, it is a necessity for me. While some might argue about the price (Covers the purchase of an average blender every year into perpetuity if purchase price is invested in an annuity), I find comparisons to other blenders moot as the results from the Vitamix is not reproducible by an average blender (no strawberry/blackberry seeds in your smoothie, no bell pepper seeds in your soup). And, cleaning takes seconds!The Motor of the Vitamix 5200 is the same as the CIA Commercial blender and costs a little less. The CIA edition comes with an exhaustive recipe book and a CD. Did I mention the blend sound reminds me of a revving Ferrari? (All the more reason to go RED!) Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 21, 2009

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  Does most of what it advertises

  However, please be aware that unit cannot handle heavy loads that thicken quickly. Be sure there is plenty of liquid if used on high speed. Unit twice in two weeks shut down on me, once for 8 hours because the ingredients thickened quickly (potato-leek soup). I had to finish recipe in my food processor. Because of this sensitivity, if I had to do it over again, I would put my investment elsewhere. 3/5 J. Miller - See all my reviews, February 1, 2010

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  List Price: $599.00
  

  Made in the USA, 120V

  Patented Tamper for processing thicker mixtures

  Spill-proof vented lid with removable plug

  Commercial-grade 2+ Peak Horsepower Motor

  Large-capacity 64-ounce BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester container

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  Vitamix 1363 CIA Professional Series, Platinum

  Kitchen (Vita-Mix)
  

  Rating (74 reviews):

  (4.8/5)

  

  Love my Vita-Mix!

  I have had my platinum Vita-Mix 1363 CIA (Culinary Institute of America) model blender for just over a month. So far, I am loving it! I have definitely increased my consumption of fruits and vegetables since getting it. I start most mornings off with a smoothie now. I throw in whatever fruit is in season (I love berries, but I've used peaches, nectarines, plums, grapes, apples, bananas and various frozen fruits), a scoop or two of protein powder, milk or water, a couple handfuls of fresh spinach, a couple handfuls of ice and sweetener if needed. Surprisingly, the spinach doesn't noticeably change the flavor, but it does boost the nutritional content of the smoothie. In less than 10 minutes I can have my smoothie made, poured into a "to go" cup and have the machine all clean (just add warm water and a couple drops of dish soap- turn it on for 30 seconds, then empty and rinse the container). The smoothies always turn out 100% smooth- berry seeds, apple seeds, ice and other hard... 5/5 T. Moore (Northern California) - See all my reviews, August 9, 2009

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  Worth every dime

  Why, you say, should I spend this insane amount of money for a blender? My answer: Because it's worth it. There is simply no comparison to other blenders. The Vitamix is the best. It really does crush ice effectively, make ice cream in seconds from frozen fruit and cream, and produces drinks and sauces that are utterly smooth, plus soups to die for. I make my own hummus and used it for baby food regularly, guests love it for silky frozen drinks, and it lasts--with zero problems. It's a quality device. Advertising is geared to health food because you can make drinks or soups from fresh produce and take advantage of the natural fiber that juicers take out, and they're right, but that's not why I bought it. I bought it because I hate the odd chunky bits of fruit in my smoothies, I hate taking blenders apart for cleaning and I wanted something I could depend on to do what I wanted each and every time. I've not been disappointed.Update 3/18/10I've had my Vita-Mix... 5/5 C. G. King (Horse Country, VA USA) - See all my reviews, March 1, 2008

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  How often do you fall in love with a household appliance?

  I ordered Vitamix 5200, but was upgraded by kitchenuniverse because they were out of it. It's the same machine except for an upgraded book and different color base.things I can now do (or not do)with my Vitamix:1. dont have to section oranges or lemons. healthier this way too. (just peel and remove seeds)2. don't have to peel garlic (healthier? maybe. definitely more whole)3. don't have to chop carrots (still a good idea to quarter apples)4. sell my ice cream machine, and juicer5. make smoothies while baby is asleep in the next room(can go as fast as variable 5 w/out much noise at all, it can still crush ice effortlessly at this speed). Even at the highest speed, it's as noisy as a regular vacuum, and I usually don't need to go full speed for very long anyway. The only time you need to go long (5-7 minutes) is for heating up soup, but why? adding hot water before blending is a greener alternative.6. make as little as a cup of smoothie at... 5/5 JTrinh (USA) - See all my reviews This review is from: Vitamix 1363 CIA Professional Series, Platinum (Kitchen) I ordered Vitamix 5200, but was upgraded by kitchenuniverse because they were out of it. It's the same machine except for an upgraded book and different color base.things I can now do (or not do)with my Vitamix:1. dont have to section oranges or lemons. healthier this way too. (just peel and remove seeds)2. don't have to peel garlic (healthier? maybe. definitely more whole)3. don't have to chop carrots (still a good idea to quarter apples)4. sell my ice cream machine, and juicer5. make smoothies while baby is asleep in the next room(can go as fast as variable 5 w/out much noise at all, it can still crush ice effortlessly at this speed). Even at the highest speed, it's as noisy as a regular vacuum, and I usually don't need to go full speed for very long anyway. The only time you need to go long (5-7 minutes) is for heating up soup, but why? adding hot water before blending is a greener alternative.6. make as little as a cup of smoothie at... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , January 11, 2010

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  List Price: $599.00
  

  Durable construction; variable speed control

  2+ peak hp motor generates blade speeds of 240 MPH

  64-ounce jar; recipe books, instructional DVD, and manual included

  Countertop blender with laser-cut stainless-steel blades

  Measures 8-3/4 by 7-1/4 by 20 inches; 7-year warranty

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  Vitamix 1782 TurboBlend, 2 Speed

  Kitchen (Vita-Mix Corporation)
  

  Rating (31 reviews):

  (4.5/5)

  

  Waited 2 years, recently bought this model 1782, excellent!

  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... 5/5 northkona (Kailua-Kona, HI United States) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vitamix 1782 TurboBlend, 2 Speed (Kitchen) 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... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , October 23, 2011

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  Just what I hoped it would be.

  I have wanted a Vitamix for years, and finally was willing to spend the money to get one. I LOVE it- yes, it's tough to part with so much money for a blender, but there are things you can do with this that you can't even consider with a regular blender or food processor. It is just as powerful as the advertisements say it is, and really does completely liquify solid vegetables and fruit in just seconds. 5/5 Lisa Dailey (St. Paul, MN United States) - See all my reviews, December 8, 2011

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  Daughter loves it

  Our 33-yo vegan daughter requested this for her only Christmas present, so a number of family members went in to get it for her, even though we were shocked at the price. The very first thing she did was grind some nuts to a powder which took just seconds, and made a couple of smoothies the first minute she got home. Then on New Year's Day she brought it back to our house again to make another smoothie and some Nutella from scratch (the regular stuff has dairy in it, she says). Taking into consideration all my feedback is secondhand, I would say she adores this machine. It is probably the first non-human thing she would save from a house fire, LOL! She says it is heavy-duty, fast, will do anything in seconds. My husband liked the 5-yr warranty too. Appears to be a phenomenal product! 5/5 Maine Reflections (Hancock, ME United States) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vitamix 1782 TurboBlend, 2 Speed (Kitchen) Our 33-yo vegan daughter requested this for her only Christmas present, so a number of family members went in to get it for her, even though we were shocked at the price. The very first thing she did was grind some nuts to a powder which took just seconds, and made a couple of smoothies the first minute she got home. Then on New Year's Day she brought it back to our house again to make another smoothie and some Nutella from scratch (the regular stuff has dairy in it, she says). Taking into consideration all my feedback is secondhand, I would say she adores this machine. It is probably the first non-human thing she would save from a house fire, LOL! She says it is heavy-duty, fast, will do anything in seconds. My husband liked the 5-yr warranty too. Appears to be a phenomenal product! Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , January 2, 2012

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  List Price: $479.00
  

  Locking lid design for easy removal

  Patented tamper tool for processing thick ingredients and to prevent air pockets from forming

  Oversize, 64-ounce container

  Super-efficient 2 peak horsepower motor

  Full color recipe book with over 160 recipes

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  Vitamix 1732 TurboBlend VS Blender

  Kitchen (Vita-Mix Corporation)
  

  Rating (14 reviews):

  (4.7/5)

  

  Worth every penny...

  Yes, the Vitamix is an expensive blender at $500. It simply can't be compared to any other though - it is an amazing product. All of the claims are true - you can put just about anything in it and turn into a consistent smooth liquid. To be honest I'm not a big veggie guy, yet I know the importance of consuming them - there is a ton of research that validates a plant-based diet is MUCH healthier than SAD (Standard American Diet). I've had the Vitamix for about a week and have had fun making fruit/veggie smoothies (that taste good - even with lots of green stuff!). The TurboBlend VS is the one to go for - the "cookbook" that comes with it is full of great ideas. 5/5 K. Ranabargar (Pasadena, CA United States) - See all my reviews, July 21, 2011

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  Variable speed is essential, best deal here

  If you're serious about using a Vitamix, you need the variable speed (VS). And I don't mean just high and low, but 1-10, in addition to high and low. With that, you can make cole sole in 2 seconds (no kidding!) and a lot of other things that you couldn't with more limitations, because different things require different speeds, sometimes increasing incrementally.This is the same price, package and warranty that you get if you buy directly from Vitamix. I was tempted to rate it only 4 stars, because it is way overpriced. With an Amazon Store card, it's interest-free IF you pay it off within 6 months -- and that's vital, because whopping interest applies if you don't. Vitamix has a payment plan, too, but you have to pay more when you order and have only 3 months after that to pay it off. So Amazon's deal breaks it up into 6 smaller payments, which makes it the most affordable way for many of us to get one of these machines. There is nothing else quite like them. Blentec is... 5/5 Judith (Santa Cruz, CA USA) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vitamix 1732 TurboBlend VS Blender (Kitchen) If you're serious about using a Vitamix, you need the variable speed (VS). And I don't mean just high and low, but 1-10, in addition to high and low. With that, you can make cole sole in 2 seconds (no kidding!) and a lot of other things that you couldn't with more limitations, because different things require different speeds, sometimes increasing incrementally.This is the same price, package and warranty that you get if you buy directly from Vitamix. I was tempted to rate it only 4 stars, because it is way overpriced. With an Amazon Store card, it's interest-free IF you pay it off within 6 months -- and that's vital, because whopping interest applies if you don't. Vitamix has a payment plan, too, but you have to pay more when you order and have only 3 months after that to pay it off. So Amazon's deal breaks it up into 6 smaller payments, which makes it the most affordable way for many of us to get one of these machines. There is nothing else quite like them. Blentec is... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , November 17, 2011

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  Amazing Blender

  This blender is incredible!!! I use it every morning for green smoothies and in the evenings for all sorts of delicious raw soups and salsas. It pulverizes everything to an extremely fine and enjoyable consistency. It even reduces the size of small seeds in fruits. I am satisfied and ecstatic about the purchase. I would recommend this product to ANYONE looking for a healthy lifestyle and versatility in the kitchen. 5/5 Jordan - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This blender is incredible!!! I use it every morning for green smoothies and in the evenings for all sorts of delicious raw soups and salsas. It pulverizes everything to an extremely fine and enjoyable consistency. It even reduces the size of small seeds in fruits. I am satisfied and ecstatic about the purchase. I would recommend this product to ANYONE looking for a healthy lifestyle and versatility in the kitchen. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 27, 2011

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  List Price: $549.00
  

  Variable speed control allows for flexibility and creativity

  Live fresh recipe book and let's get started dvd instructional video

  Powerful 2 peak motor horsepower

  Spill-proof lid with removable Lid Plug seals securely allowing ingredients to be added while processing

  Bpa-free, shatter-proof container with 64-ounce of true blending capacity

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  Vitamix Eastman Tritan Copolyester 32-Ounce Container with Dry Blade, Lid, and Recipe Book

  Kitchen (Vita-Mix)
  

  Rating (18 reviews):

  (4.9/5)

  

  Wonderful if you need it

  I'm a huge Vitamix fan and have used one for many years. Mine didn't come with a dry blade container so I purchased one separately more recently. There's no question that it does a great job with coffee and whole grains, but the regular container works fine for some of those things, too. Recently I started grinding my own grains for bread on occasion. For example, I couldn't find sunflower seed flour so bought some kernels and made my own. I found the regular container made this flour meal just as well as this dry blade container did. Both were fast and effective. The regular container also made wheat flour, powdered sugar and other nut flours just fine. This container did a better job with coffee however.Then, as long as I was experimenting, I decided to make my morning smoothie in this smaller container, and voila, it worked great, so I've been using this small one more for smaller quantities of things than because the blade is different.All in all,... 5/5 C. G. King (Horse Country, VA USA) - See all my reviews, January 13, 2010

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  The American "Muscle" Blender

  First, I absolutely love my Vitamix -- it's high quality, American made, and has a long warranty and commitment to customer satisfaction. In summary, just like American cars, the Vitamix embodies power.The wet container does everything it promises, except I wouldn't try to boil soup in it. I got the dry container and have had a lot of fun grinding different grains and seeds. It's magic to watch everything get crushed into dust and it's satisfying to tell my guests that I made something from scratch -- not just a bag of flour but the actual grains or berries. Many of the ethnic dishes that required trips to specialty stores are now made possible by a visit to WholeFoods' bulk food section. The difference between the two containers is really in the way that food is spun away from the blades. I recommend the dry container for what it's meant to do.A word of advice on using yeast if you are into making breads: wait till the flour cools before you add the yeast. My... 5/5 Shop for Quality (Northeast, USA) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vitamix Eastman Tritan Copolyester 32-Ounce Container with Dry Blade, Lid, and Recipe Book (Kitchen) First, I absolutely love my Vitamix -- it's high quality, American made, and has a long warranty and commitment to customer satisfaction. In summary, just like American cars, the Vitamix embodies power.The wet container does everything it promises, except I wouldn't try to boil soup in it. I got the dry container and have had a lot of fun grinding different grains and seeds. It's magic to watch everything get crushed into dust and it's satisfying to tell my guests that I made something from scratch -- not just a bag of flour but the actual grains or berries. Many of the ethnic dishes that required trips to specialty stores are now made possible by a visit to WholeFoods' bulk food section. The difference between the two containers is really in the way that food is spun away from the blades. I recommend the dry container for what it's meant to do.A word of advice on using yeast if you are into making breads: wait till the flour cools before you add the yeast. My... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 1, 2010

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  Simply amazing!

  Wow. Wow! A product that actually does what it claims - unbelievable! This thing can grind 1.5 lbs of hard winter wheat berries into beautiful whole wheat flour in under a minute. No exaggeration. The ground product is warm, but I do not feel that it is in danger of losing nutrients (especially since, with this unit, you can dump it directly into the bowl and make bread immediately). A must-buy if you're into grinding your own whole grain flours. 5/5 R. S. (Atlanta, GA) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vitamix Eastman Tritan Copolyester 32-Ounce Container with Dry Blade, Lid, and Recipe Book (Kitchen) Wow. Wow! A product that actually does what it claims - unbelievable! This thing can grind 1.5 lbs of hard winter wheat berries into beautiful whole wheat flour in under a minute. No exaggeration. The ground product is warm, but I do not feel that it is in danger of losing nutrients (especially since, with this unit, you can dump it directly into the bowl and make bread immediately). A must-buy if you're into grinding your own whole grain flours. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 7, 2010

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  List Price: $174.00
  Price: $107.47
  You Save: $66.53 (38%)

  Drip-free spout; raised calibrations; recipe book included

  Measures 7-1/2 by 9 by 13-1/2 inches; 5-year warranty

  Large 32-ounce container designed for the Vita-Mix appliance

  Hardened stainless-steel blades for grinding grains

  2-part locking lid with a removable measuring cap

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  Vitamix Turboblend 4500 Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor

  Kitchen (Vita-Mix)
  

  Rating (67 reviews):

  (4.7/5)

  

  Comparison with Blendtec

  Vitamix makes excellent products. I have owned this one for about 7 or 8 years and just purchased a Blendtec a few months ago, as well.Both are great blenders. Comparison of differences:1) Motor - Blendtec has a more powerful motor. Noticeably more powerful - 3 HP vs 2 HP.2) Construction - Blendtec is not as substantial in construction. Vitamix feels more heavy-duty, and is heavier. Vitamix will not rock and shake as much. Both are made in the USA with BPA-free containers.3) Noise level - I don't notice that much difference. Maybe Blendtec is a bit louder, but it doesn't bother me.4) Controls - There are more controls on the Blendtec - slower/faster, pulse, and preprogrammed selections. For example: Smoothies is one of the preprogrammed selections. So this means the Blendtec will alter its speed on its own in order to make sure items get blended that might otherwise stay bouncing around on top. It is optimized... 5/5 kalyson (Madison, SD, USA) - See all my reviews This review is from: Vitamix Turboblend 4500 Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor (Kitchen) Vitamix makes excellent products. I have owned this one for about 7 or 8 years and just purchased a Blendtec a few months ago, as well.Both are great blenders. Comparison of differences:1) Motor - Blendtec has a more powerful motor. Noticeably more powerful - 3 HP vs 2 HP.2) Construction - Blendtec is not as substantial in construction. Vitamix feels more heavy-duty, and is heavier. Vitamix will not rock and shake as much. Both are made in the USA with BPA-free containers.3) Noise level - I don't notice that much difference. Maybe Blendtec is a bit louder, but it doesn't bother me.4) Controls - There are more controls on the Blendtec - slower/faster, pulse, and preprogrammed selections. For example: Smoothies is one of the preprogrammed selections. So this means the Blendtec will alter its speed on its own in order to make sure items get blended that might otherwise stay bouncing around on top. It is optimized... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , May 12, 2010

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  Great company, but spring for the 5200

  I ordered this product and was anxiously counting down the days until I received it in the mail. It was processed and shipped quickly, as always. I love Amazon! I did, however, return this. I discovered, after this shipped, that it is an older model no longer sold by Vita-Mix. I went on the Vita-Mix website to check things out. For just $40 more, I got the new fangled (refurbished) version with the variable speed (LOVE IT!!!) and the new lid design (heard that the old lids are hard to get off) PLUS a 7-year warranty and free shipping. The 4600 sold through Amazon only has a 5 year warranty and it's the older design. Why not pay an extra $40 and get the awesome higher powered 5200? I'm so happy I did. I'm sure I would have liked the 4600, but I would have kicked myself for taking the older model I think. LOVE the 5200. I use it every day, usually more than once. It is worth every penny. Buy one now and get healthy!!! 3/5 K. Fredrick "viper_mama" (APO, AP United States) - See all my reviews, March 11, 2010

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  Vitamix 5000

  I have had my Vitamix 5000 for 5 and 1/2 years and could not be happier with it. Not only does it blend full frozen bananas (see other review), the powerful motor can do a lot more.We use our Vitamix primarily for smoothies and milkshakes, and have learned that as long as there is some liquid in the container with the ice cubes and frozen bananas it will blend all into a smooth drink with ease.The machine is loud for sure, not something you can hold conversation over, but we've noted that it blends so quickly, that the moments it takes to liquify are over before we've forgotten what we would have said anyway.Clean up is also amazing with the Vitamix. As the Vitamix reps demonstrate, all we've done to clean it up after is wipe down any smoothie residue on the outside of the spout, fill container 1/3-ish of the way up with warm/hot water and a drip of soap, then blend on high for 30-ish seconds. Every month or so I DO wash a bit more thouroughly with... 5/5 Santrelle - See all my reviews This review is from: Vitamix Turboblend 4500 Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor (Kitchen) I have had my Vitamix 5000 for 5 and 1/2 years and could not be happier with it. Not only does it blend full frozen bananas (see other review), the powerful motor can do a lot more.We use our Vitamix primarily for smoothies and milkshakes, and have learned that as long as there is some liquid in the container with the ice cubes and frozen bananas it will blend all into a smooth drink with ease.The machine is loud for sure, not something you can hold conversation over, but we've noted that it blends so quickly, that the moments it takes to liquify are over before we've forgotten what we would have said anyway.Clean up is also amazing with the Vitamix. As the Vitamix reps demonstrate, all we've done to clean it up after is wipe down any smoothie residue on the outside of the spout, fill container 1/3-ish of the way up with warm/hot water and a drip of soap, then blend on high for 30-ish seconds. Every month or so I DO wash a bit more thouroughly with... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 11, 2009

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  List Price: $499.00
  Price: $398.95
  You Save: $100.05 (20%)

  Measures 7-1/4 by 8-3/4 by 20 inches; 5-year limited warranty

  Easy-to-clean front panel; full-color recipe book included

  Clear 64-ounce non-toxic polycarbonate container; locking lid and plunger

  Stainless-steel enclosed blade assembly with sealed ball bearings

  2-speed blender with thermally protected 2+ peak horsepower motor

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  Vitamix 1710 Professional Series, Brushed Stainless Finish

  Kitchen (Vita-Mix)
  

  Rating (37 reviews):

  (4.4/5)

  

  Vitamix? Yes!... This model? Maybe...

  First of all, let me join the others in saying that this appliance can truly be life-changing and I should have purchased it years ago. If you are considering this blender to eat healthier by adding fruits, vegetables and other natural, nutritious foods to your daily diet then don't wait. In just couple of weeks I have learned the basics and use my Vitamix at least once daily. I've lost weight and feel better, and I eat out just for the convenience much less. The ingredients to make a smoothie and many other recipes keep well in the fridge and freezer and it is easy and economical to have a healthy meal at hand.However, this particular Vitamix may be over-kill for most. You pay around an extra $100 for the 3 presets over the 5200 model but they only add a small measure of convenience in my experience. The hot soup setting doesn't make the soup all that hot. I made a small batch of tomato soup and I had to transfer it to the stove for a bit before serving. In other words,... 4/5 Jackytar (Baton Rouge) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vitamix 1710 Professional Series, Brushed Stainless Finish (Kitchen) First of all, let me join the others in saying that this appliance can truly be life-changing and I should have purchased it years ago. If you are considering this blender to eat healthier by adding fruits, vegetables and other natural, nutritious foods to your daily diet then don't wait. In just couple of weeks I have learned the basics and use my Vitamix at least once daily. I've lost weight and feel better, and I eat out just for the convenience much less. The ingredients to make a smoothie and many other recipes keep well in the fridge and freezer and it is easy and economical to have a healthy meal at hand.However, this particular Vitamix may be over-kill for most. You pay around an extra $100 for the 3 presets over the 5200 model but they only add a small measure of convenience in my experience. The hot soup setting doesn't make the soup all that hot. I made a small batch of tomato soup and I had to transfer it to the stove for a bit before serving. In other words,... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , July 25, 2011

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  Believe it or not, it IS worth it IF you use it!

  Never thought we would spend this kind of money for a mixer/blender! But we did and love it!! Use it everyday for smoothies, salad dressings, frozen desserts etc etc. It is a workhorse and works as advertised. Saves a lot of time. We grate parmesan cheese and its perfect every time. Margaritas, fresh peanut butter..I could go on and on or maybe I have. Haha. Anyway, if in your budget, buy it. 5/5 AZMIKE (USA) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vitamix 1710 Professional Series, Brushed Stainless Finish (Kitchen) Never thought we would spend this kind of money for a mixer/blender! But we did and love it!! Use it everyday for smoothies, salad dressings, frozen desserts etc etc. It is a workhorse and works as advertised. Saves a lot of time. We grate parmesan cheese and its perfect every time. Margaritas, fresh peanut butter..I could go on and on or maybe I have. Haha. Anyway, if in your budget, buy it. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 20, 2010

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  The Rolls Royce of Blenders

  As I also posted on the Williams-Sonoma website, I had no qualms about spending $600 on this appliance after throughly researching reviews and videos and discussing with food pros. Am using at least 3x a day - hot soups, frozen fruit treats, dips, and smoothies and lassis to die for. So easy to use - no need to peel or remove seeds from fruits or vegetables. The 64-oz container is lightweight and easy to pour from; rubber lid snaps in tightly - no leakeage - and removes easily. It's important, for maximum effectiveness, to always put your wet ingredients in before the solid - this will prevent the solids from gumming up in the blades. As clearly stated in the accompanying recipe book - place the ingredients "in the order listed." Also a breeze to clean, and such a handsome addition to the kitchen counter - next to my Cuisinart, which is quickly becoming jealous from disuse. Not surprising that this is the blender used on Iron Chef - I keep freeze-framing on the TV image to reinforce... 5/5 Roni Jordan (Hanover, MA USA) - See all my reviews, September 4, 2010

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  List Price: $649.00
  

  Spill-proof vented lid with removable plug

  Commercial-grade 2+ Peak Horsepower Motor

  Patented Tamper for processing thicker mixtures

  Large-capacity 64-ounce BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester container

  Made in the USA, 120V

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  Vitamix 1723 Professional Series 200, Onyx

  Kitchen (Vita-Mix)
  

  Rating (17 reviews):

  (4.9/5)

  

  A-MAH-ZING!

  This thing is AWESOME. I'm so glad we took the plunge! This blender is the BEST one I have EVER used. Blends ice perfectly, leaving no chunks, easy clean up, makes soup. I'm pretty sure it would chop up rocks if you tried. My husband and I have been using this to make shakes in the mornings. I put strawberries, other frozen fruits, halves of apples (with the core and seeds still in tact), ice...everything comes out perfectly for a smoothie. The seeds from the strawberries don't even make it through the blend.I can pull out my fruits, blend a smoothie, and clean up in less than 2 minutes.Don't deceive yourself into thinking, though, that you will never use the damper. If you make thick shakes, you will use the damper every time....For those that don't know, you can make your own soups (add your veggies and broth) and run the blender for a full minute or two. It will heat your ingredients right up.Clean up is as simple as adding a... 5/5 brandgirl82 - See all my reviews This review is from: Vitamix 1723 Professional Series 200, Onyx (Kitchen) This thing is AWESOME. I'm so glad we took the plunge! This blender is the BEST one I have EVER used. Blends ice perfectly, leaving no chunks, easy clean up, makes soup. I'm pretty sure it would chop up rocks if you tried. My husband and I have been using this to make shakes in the mornings. I put strawberries, other frozen fruits, halves of apples (with the core and seeds still in tact), ice...everything comes out perfectly for a smoothie. The seeds from the strawberries don't even make it through the blend.I can pull out my fruits, blend a smoothie, and clean up in less than 2 minutes.Don't deceive yourself into thinking, though, that you will never use the damper. If you make thick shakes, you will use the damper every time....For those that don't know, you can make your own soups (add your veggies and broth) and run the blender for a full minute or two. It will heat your ingredients right up.Clean up is as simple as adding a... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , August 3, 2011

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  Excellent

  Yesterday, I received the Vita Mix 1723 Professional Series 200 blender. First impressions out of the box. The lid and perhaps the carafe handle impart a strong plastic smell that permeates the whole box. The carafe is BPA free not sure about the lid. The carafe looks beautiful. It is made out of a clear yet strong and light weight polycarbonate material. The base its a bit bulky but expected as it houses a 2HP motor. However it is not heavy for its size. Also included are a tamper tool, a recipe book, and a DVD.I washed the carafe and the lid with warm soapy water and noticed that the smell of plastic still lingers from the lid. I am thinking it will be sometime before it goes away.The overall height of the blender is about about 20 inches. I had no problem placing it on the edge of the counter. Thus it does not fit directly underneath the kitchen cabinets. The carafe has plenty of room to blend different types of fruits and vegetables at once, which is a huge... 5/5 guy "in search of knowledge" (Mnt View , CA, USA) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Vitamix 1723 Professional Series 200, Onyx (Kitchen) Yesterday, I received the Vita Mix 1723 Professional Series 200 blender. First impressions out of the box. The lid and perhaps the carafe handle impart a strong plastic smell that permeates the whole box. The carafe is BPA free not sure about the lid. The carafe looks beautiful. It is made out of a clear yet strong and light weight polycarbonate material. The base its a bit bulky but expected as it houses a 2HP motor. However it is not heavy for its size. Also included are a tamper tool, a recipe book, and a DVD.I washed the carafe and the lid with warm soapy water and noticed that the smell of plastic still lingers from the lid. I am thinking it will be sometime before it goes away.The overall height of the blender is about about 20 inches. I had no problem placing it on the edge of the counter. Thus it does not fit directly underneath the kitchen cabinets. The carafe has plenty of room to blend different types of fruits and vegetables at once, which is a huge... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 2, 2011

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  Awesome machine!

  This machine is just so amazing.... having the best time making all kinds of delicious, healthy and quick soupsand Italian ices right out of the blender...not to mention, the smoothies I originally purchased it to make...Worth every penny. 5/5 W. Wessel "Horsey" (Santa Monica) - See all my reviews, March 27, 2011

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  List Price: $549.00
  Price: $448.95
  You Save: $100.05 (18%)

  Made in the USA, 120V

  Patented Tamper for processing thicker mixtures

  Commercial-grade 2+ Peak Horsepower Motor

  Large-capacity 64-ounce BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester container

  Spill-proof vented lid with removable plug

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