VitaMix Blender, is it worth it?

[vanity021]

I am researching into the Vitamix blender, is it really worth it? I do currently own a regular blender and also a juicer. But was interested in making fruit/veggie drinks, but wasn't sure if it's worth the money. If so, which model is worth investing in?

[Candy]

I sell them and my answer is no. It is a fad, like All-Clad. Much better stuff out there. Do more homework.

[MacGuffin]

Gee, one of your longer-lived fads, no? Maybe you'd like to share what the much better stuff is.

[Lovemy Privacy]

I would like to know on what objective evidence you base your statement. I agree that there's other stuff out there, but how have you determined that the other stuff is better? Have you used other blenders? If so, how many and for how long? Sales may be up, but does that speak to the fact that the product has been on the market for a long time? Forty years ago, lots of people in this country believed that steak, potatoes, gravy and white bread constituted a nutritious meal. Does that mean that the upsurge in eating green is a fad, or that we're not as ignorant as we once were? Just a few questions. Plenty more I could ask of you but time doesn't allow.

[sedimental]

Well, it has been over a 20year fad for me!

I just used mine tonight to make coconut milk. That machine has seen many food fads come and go. It doesn't mind, it keeps going.

[laraffinee]

My Vitamix is 22 years old and still chugging along just fine. I use it several times a week. I certainly consider it a worthwhile purchase. I got the top of the line at the time and it was relatively expensive -something like $380. For 22 years of continuous use with no repairs - that is a really good deal in my book.

[Xellosw2099]

My family is also considering one of these after seeing the live soup demo at Costco. Is it really as easy as if look, preparing fresh hot vegetable soup like that?

[MacGuffin]

It absolutely is as long as you take the time to get familiar with the manual and watch the DVD before you start blending; doing so will ensure that you have the necessary book smarts for avoiding frustrating noob mistakes (e.g. tripping the overload protection). I also recommend never using raw onion in a recipe because it tends to be overpowering--cook it somehow first. Start with recipes in the cookbook, follow the procedures exactly, and you'll be winging it in no time.

[rawkat]

Depends where you live. I'm in Australia, and Vitamix costs $800-$900. After researching all possible alternatives, I ended up getting a Froothie Optimum 9400... great blender with a more powerful motor and speed than the Vitamix. Then again, you can get Vitamix in the States for $500, cheaper than my Optimum. Love my blender, no regrets, does literally everything a Vitamix does

[MacGuffin]

I used to know several people from Oz who sprung for a Vitamix, including one couple living here temporarily who bought theirs here. If I'm not mistaken, Vitamix will be able to make the necessary adjustments so that they'll be able to use it when they return home. But isn't Thermomix the power blender of choice Down Under?

[Antilope]

I recently used the VitaMix regular blade and container to grind rice flour from uncooked white rice. Worked great to make a cup of rice flour to use in making the crusty coating for Dutch Crunch bread (Tiger bread). Another use for my VitaMix.

[MacGuffin]

If you're going to use your Vitamix to grind, I strongly suggest investing in a dry container. The aforementioned "blenderlady" (and I second blondelle's suggestion to visit her site) recently brought up a very good point: not only does the micro-abrasion that occurs cloud the container but it also results in its being far more prone to retaining strong odors. And FWIW, the dry container is also designed to do a more effective job at grinding hard commodities (and no, I don't own one--I knew I'd never need it).

[Lovemy Privacy]

I got a reconditioned 5200 and it's been going strong for at least 5 years and probably longer. Have to check my records. I still use it more than any of my other appliances. I'm a believer! In case you didn't know and are are a big box shopper, Costco has been carrying them for a while now. At least you can get a live demo and some points back on your purchase!

[nannapix]

YES! YES! YES!After 40 years of buying blenders, I am done. It does what no other imitator can do. I actually watched side bye comparisons on you tube with Vitamix & it;s 2 competitors. Evaeyone in my extended family is buying a Vitamix.

[cmcsmj]

I am also looking into purchasing the Vitamix for health reasons. I am a cancer patient and looking at all the benefits of adding more fruits and vegetables in the diet. I'm wondering about how it works for the pizza dough. We make own pizza using a bread machine every week. Can't decide between the refurbished 5200 or the other package with the dry pitcher. Any suggestions?

[MacGuffin]

As much as I like to recommend the Vitamix, especially for those whose health is compromised, I don't think it's great for kneading dough. People who use the dry container to make flour seem to like it, though, so if you wanted to grind your own grains and continue to use your bread machine, that would work. You're aware that there's also an upgrade that's available at Sur la Table, right? However, if you're looking to save some money, go with a 5200. I saw recently that it's possible Costco has a nice package with a longer warranty for about $10 more than a refurb, so check it out ASAP. Also, you can wait to buy your dry container to decide if it's what you want. People list them on eBay and they usually go for quite a bit less than list; I also have a friend who can get you a decent price with free shipping. And good luck! Nutrition really can make a difference.

[SayNo2GMO]

For dough, I would stick to a Kitchenaid Professional mixer, that's what I use.

The Vitamix 5200 is best blender i've tested for the price. Yes it's pricey, but if you use it as much as I do (everyday 2-3 times), it is well worth it. The 7 year warranty should sell you if the personal reviews don't. Spend an extra $100 upon checkout from the Vitamix website and get an extra 3 year warranty for a total of 10 years, that's as good as it gets!

Here's a link to where I bought it from and got free shipping, it's shipped from the Vitamix warehouse in Canada so no brokerage fees or duties: http://www.voltahealth.com/vitamix.php

[Lovemy Privacy]

If you already have a mixer and you're only concerned about making bread, you can get a smaller Cuisinart processor for about $100, and if you watch the sales, the larger ones are available at really good prices. Next to my VitaMix, my food processor is my most frequently used small appliance..

[Antilope]

Everyone always talks about spinach or tofu smoothies in a Vitamix. ;-)

Okay, what's the most unhealthy and delicious food you can make in a Vitamix.

[MacGuffin]

It's a safe bet that the most unhealthful and delicious food you can imagine is possible in the Vitamix as long as its preparation involves blending. The Vita-Prep (commercial Vitamix) is endorsed by top chefs: http://www.vitamix.com/foodservice/pr... ; bear in mind that it functions identically to the Vitamix but is built to run for much longer periods at a time.

[Lovemy Privacy]

Fruit smoothies with added sugar and heavy cream!!!! Ice cream with real cream! Cream soups with added buttah! Something tells me you won't need a whole lot of help in this quarter!

[newlyhealthy]

Yes. As I learn how to live on a Raw diet, I am becoming increasingly aware that a commercial grade blender will give better results. My vote is Yes but not necessarily this brand. I want a Semak VCE1500 from Australia but then I digress.

[MacGuffin]

"Vitacrush?" Hmm...I wonder how they arrived at THAT name?

All kidding aside, there are a number of Oz-based Vitamix owners on my friend's Vitamix list and they LOVE their Vitamixes. And they get a the full seven-year warranty as well, not just 24 months.

[newlyhealthy]

No doubt. I used one for years working myself through school in fine dining and that blender as simple as it seemed was a real workhorse - always dependable, always consistent. The Vitacrush VCE1500 was compared to the Vitamix in an Australian blender YouYube comparison where they dropped large pumpkin chunks in with a little water and did well. Getting good reviews. Warranty in Australia is par for the course but Vitamix is priced high there probably due to shipping and tarrifs. Still a great value. I am Australian so I checked it out. Don't get me wrong, I really like what Vitamix is putting out. No worries.

[MacGuffin]

Oh, I hear you about the high cost and it's undoubtedly due to shipping and tariffs; your dollar isn't so far below ours that rate of exchange would make that much difference. It makes me sad because based on the Australians I've met here in NYC and online (foodies all), it seems that you guys really have an appreciation for good equipment. I know of people who've spent ungodly sums to have 65+ lb. Norwalk juicers shipped to them that sell here for $2300 - $2500--talk about dedication! And let's not forget the Australian love affair with the incredibly expensive Thermomix. You guys have good taste! No getting around the cost of shipping I guess but I wish your government didn't assign such high tariffs--it might be protecting Semak but it's not like the potential competition is slaving away in a sweatshop for a few bucks/day either, producing the kind of imports that get on my nerves.

[newlyhealthy]

I live in the US now (been here since I was four but experience a sort a national schizophrenia at times). As with art, I may not know all there is to know but I know what I like. I lived in Greenwich, CT for a few years and friends had super blenders they never used - blaspheme!!! They didn't know value - they just got what someone else got. Well I was eating the typical american diet then so I can't knock them. Now? I am torn and just waiting for the right time to jump in (or for Christmas). Cheers and thanks. Maybe I'll be a Vitamix owner - maybe a Semak (just to buck the system) hehe

[Antilope]

I took the leap last weekend and bought a Vitamix Creations II from QVC. They had a free shipping and 3 payment plan for no extra cost offer that I couldn't pass up.

Now to see if we can drink enough smoothies and frappes to make the cost of the purchase worth our while before we tire of them. ;-)

[scubadoo97]

Congrats. And don't forget about soups. I made ajo blanco/white gazpacho last week. Smooth as silk. You would guess it had guessed it had.cream in it but not a drop. Also made a big batch of hummus in it last week

[Antilope]

Yes, soups are also something we will use it for. Interesting to see how it can heat up soups while making them.

[MacGuffin]

It's more expeditious to start with hot liquids--it really cuts the blending time. The recipes, in fact, usually recommend starting with hot liquid. And it's not even so much that it can heat stuff like soups--it literally cooks them. I once measured the temperature of the tortilla soup I made; it read 208º F, so you want to be careful when handling your soup. Be aware that there'll be a LOT of steam.

[Antilope]

I might do it once or twice as a novelty, but I can't see running the blender all the time to heat soups and putting necessary wear on the motor. A microwave is cheaper and more efficient for heating.

[MacGuffin]

I think you mean "'unnecessary' wear" but regardless, the motor is made to be worked hard; it's not going to wear out. It can literally take ice up to boiling if run long enough (without harming the motor, I might add). If you follow the instructions in the users manual, you don't have to baby it. And again, it's designed to actually COOK, not heat. If you don't take advantage of its ability to simultaneously purée and cook things like soups, gravies, and sauces, you're really not getting your money's worth unless, of course, you're a raw foodist and have no interest in letting the machine totally strut its stuff: http://vitamix.com/household/infocent... . And BTW, use raw onion in these recipes at your peril. Sauté it or something, otherwise it'll dominate your soup, and not in a good way. :O~
These machines are expensive for a reason: they can do a LOT. Let it pay for itself.

[MacGuffin]

Just the fact that it's unlikely you'll ever have to replace it should convince you. And I've mentioned this before here but please, read and watch all of the instructional material before even flipping the switch--it's important. And don't hesitate to avail yourself of the toll-free phone help (it's in Ohio, not offshore somewhere). You paid for it, make use of it.

[Antilope]

Yes. We have a replica (modern) Oster beehive blender. The glass pitcher fell and broke and had to be replaced. We also had a Kitchenaid blender (or was it a Cuisinart, I forget). Our daughter made a smoothie with ice a few times and the rubber gear coupler that spins the blades shredded itself. I had to replace that. With all the blenders we've purchased over the years for $ 75 or $100 a pop we could have already had a Vitamix. I like the warranty on the Vitamix. Hope I won't have to use it.

[scubadoo97]

<With all the blenders we've purchased over the years for $ 75 or $100 a pop we could have already had a Vitamix>

This is how I rationalized the purchase. Should have bought one a long time ago.

[MacGuffin]

Does Semak make machines for the US market? I'm guessing imports would be expensive...?

"National schizophrenia"--I love it!

[1marcus4]

Semak? Better specs on the newest Vitamixs. Why buy Chinese?

[newlyhealthy]

Is Semak Chinese? I thought they were made in Australia. or at least some large percentage was made in Australia. Right?

[MacGuffin]

I read on the Semak site that they manufacture in Australia.

[1marcus4]

From the http://www.rawpower.com.au web site, an Australian distributor of Semak blenders.

"Semak Vitacrush Blenders are made in China and I am very impressed with the high quality of both the jugs and motors. All come with a 2 year warranty."

I can't find any page on the Semak web site which states they are specifically made in Australia.

My guess is that some products are made in Australia, some in China.

[newlyhealthy]

Good fact checking. I'll be sure I know what I am buying when I move forward. The folks at Raw Power seem to really like this brand as well.

[1marcus4]

Purchased the newly redesigned Vitamix Pro 750 from Williams-Sonoma this month. I'm in love! That says it all.

[Lovemy Privacy]

I've had several Oster blenders over the past 35 years, and they were fine, as far as they could go. Had been researching "super blenders" as my diet became rawer and greener, and although after comparing them,I was sold on the VitaMix, but still found the price a bit daunting. Finally broke down and bought a reconditioned 5200 from the company. Best thing I ever did! I use it several times a day; in the morning I make smoothies and green drinks, and in the evenings, I do everything from creamy, non-dairy salad dressings to soups to correcting gravy mistakes. For years, I've ground raw oats into a powder and used it for everything from facials and body scrubs to thickeners for non-dairy smoothies. My other blenders gave me cornmeal consistency oats. With VitaMix, I get cake flour consistency. For folks who want to make their own nut butters, this is a dream come true. Haven't used it for pesto; still like the consistency I get with my Cuisinart. But I love what it does to hummus! The rawer my diet becomes, the more I find other uses for my VitaMix. I don't regret having purchased it at all.

[MacGuffin]

Rather than correcting gravy mistakes, may I suggest just cooking the gravy in the Vitamix? MUCH easier and no mistakes to correct. That's part of the beauty of the machine--you start thinking in terms of how to adapt what you've been doing all along to the Vitamix. Friends from the UK were impressed as hell last Thanksgiving when I dumped the ingredients for cashew gravy into my Vita-Mix and let 'er rip for four minutes or so.

Personally I hate hummus b'tahini made in the Vitamix--it's much too fluffy and reminiscent of buttercream frosting to suit me. I can buy much better hummus than what I'm able to produce at home but when I want to be masochistic and make my own, I run the cooked hummus through my Norwalk juicer, then add the tahini and seasoning by hand (this saves me the effort of pulling out the food processor).

[Lovemy Privacy]

Will have to try that! However, the "gravy mistakes"--although rare (LOL!) I'm correcting are from my holiday traditional gravy, i.e., defatted pan drippings and dark roux. Some things just can't be hurried, so when I forget and hurry, my VitaMix provides a great bail-out. Is your cashew gravy purely vegan or do you use meat broth?

[MacGuffin]

It's vegan but once you make your roux (I assume with your drippings), THEN dump it and your liquids, etc. into your Vitamix and let 'er rip. See what I mean about adapting? You determine what you still have to do in the usual way and what you don't and then come up with a kind of hybrid method that's an improvement on the original, e.g., maybe not adding all of your liquids and/or seasonings at once and stopping the machine to make adjustments. Trust me, you're going to be thrilled once you get the knack of this because this is where you start to realize that you CAN justify having spent so much. :)

[Lovemy Privacy]

Thanks for another reason to be happy I bought this gem, as though I needed one (LOL!) Looking forward to experimenting with your gravy making method!

[MacGuffin]

You'll bless me forever. :))

Seriously, there's a wonderful recipe here http://www.chow.com/recipes/10832-swe... and if you notice, I commented on it. BAKE the sweets and peel them (it's kind of a no-brainer that baked sweets are a better fit for this--you can even bake 'em in advance and the peels are a nice snack, too), follow 1 - 3 without adding the sweets, then just dump everything (excluding the star anise and the heavy cream) into your Vitamix, walk it up and then run it on HIGH for 4 minutes or so, then take it down to VARIABLE 1 or 2, remove the vented cap (be careful of the steam!), and kinda slowly add your cream. This is an example of what I meant--start tweaking stuff so that your Vitamix does most of the work. You'll find it's faster and with better results on a more consistent basis.

[JudiAU]

They are pretty awesome, and I have years of "fair" experience to prove it. My family is kind of obsessed with them. I turned one down as a shower present from my mom and sister in lieu of another gift and Mr. JudiAU is still annoyed.

[MacGuffin]

Well, that doesn't mean that your future will necessarily be devoid of one forever. ;)

[EliseRaat]

Hi, I definitely think buying a Vitamix is worth it! I don't know what got into me to buy one because at the time it was extremely expensive for me but now after using it everyday I can say it is the best buy I have ever made! I make my own raw foods and drinks, own peanut/almond butter. Apple sauce, cole slaw and much more. It's fun and healthy.

[Mike9876]

I don't personally have a VitaMix Blender, but my parents do and they swear by it. They absolutely love it. I have seen it in action and it seems to be of very high quality. I would definitely consider it as an option.

[pmadams]

The way I describe the VitaMix to people is to try and imagine a table saw motor with a blender on top, and you have it. I have a 5000 that's about eight years old and still going strong. I'm happy that I have one but don't think I'd spend the same money again. I'm not a professional chef and use mine only for making soup bases, chipping ice and some juicing. The latter is really euphemistic because it's not "juicing" in the strict sense of the word. Pureeing is really what it is, albeit pureeing on steroids.

What really bothers me about VitaMix is that when you need a part, they're going to well and truly gaff you on the price. The idea of paying $150. for a 32oz "dry" container is outrageous. You'd have to make ALLOT of flour to recoup that cost in savings over buying flour from the market. So too, you'll have to use the VitaMix allot to make up for the initial price hit. Yes, it's a very capable blender. That said, I've an Oster, glass container blender that's probably 30 years old that still crushes ice, can whip up a puree with ease and you could probably buy used for less than ten bucks. I'm just saying...

[MacGuffin]

I think pretty much the only "parts" one would need would be other containers, no? Unless of course you use the tamper without the lid in place and it gets eaten, and even the containers can be had for about $100. In the event that something breaks, the likelihood that it will be covered under warranty is pretty high and the one time I did need something that wasn't covered (a gear sprocket), it was only $25 with shipping. Also, don't forget that the containers are made here (not cheap these days) and have, to the best of my knowledge, the same warranty as the machine.

You do have a point, though. If you're not using your Vitamix every day (which I pretty much do, and for heavy-duty blending), it's probably not a good purchase. I had an Oster that I used for years before it gave up the ghost, although I broke the container and replaced it with plastic. It was especially useful because my old Vita-Mix 4000 really wasn't able to do anything but pulverize; my 5000's a lot more versatile and does it all.

[FelafelBoy]

I have used my Oster 10 speed blender almost exclusively now for making ice cream from frozen banana pieces. I add only a small amount of coconut or almond milk and a few frozen pieces of fruit. It comes out very creamy and a close cousin to soft serve dairy ice cream. When I have had the "ice cream" made by VM demonstrators, the ice cream made is too "icy" and "airy" to my taste.
Can the VM be used to make creamier ice cream? I prefer not to consume something that has a large component of ice cubes and an "airy" texture. I also prefer the creaminess of the banana "ice cream" to a sorbet texture which has more "ice crystals" in its body. I create the banana ice cream in my Oster by using the slower speed and having it "fold" the puree over into itself (it has a four blade unit similar to that of the VM albeit at a much lower HP). I wondered if the VM could be used in the same way. (I was told to just set the VM to a "high" speed to make ice cream from a frozen banana. I wouldn't want to destroy the "creamy" and dense texture that the banana provides by mixing it up too finely to form a smoothy result instead.)

I am leaning toward the 48 oz. container (the 64 oz seems too large for smaller amounts of recipes I would make, and though the 32 oz. seems adequate for this purpose, I'd rather leave the option open for larger portions, such as soup should I decide to make that in the VM). What is the "contour" difference in the 48 oz. container vs. the 64 oz that a poster referred to? Is there any negative aspect to this different "contour" difference?

At the demos, a bouillon cube is always used in the soup recipes. What can be substituted for that? (Most bouillon cubes are loaded with sodium.) Why not just add "extra" seasoning? If soup is being made, and items such as tomatoes, potatoes, celery, and carrots are being placed in the container, how much space is needed above the water level to operate the machine? With a pressure cooker, a certain amount of "empty space" is required above the water level. I was wondering if a 48 oz. container would be suitable for making soup and if so, since the container is not to be filled to the top, if the result of the cooking could be calculated to be no more than about 4 cups (40oz) leaving about 2 cups room for the liquid and contents to be splashing around and up.

What effect does using the wet blade container for grinding grain have on the longevity of the blades? (I understand that the wet blades pull down the contents into a vortex vs. the dry blade container tends to "push" the contents up.

I have noticed with my Oster blender that I continually have to either add more water to keep the contents in the blender blending, or use a spatula to reorient the blending mixture due to the solids tending to get "stuck" at the bottom of the container near the blades (the width of the base is quite narrow, so unless the mixture is being "folded over itself" the ingredients just "stick" at that location.
I would hope that the VM operation would blend ingredients more efficiently.

My previous thread on wattage for a blender referred to my Oster motor burning out. Oddly, after it smoked for a few minutes (and emitted a rotten plastic burning smell), and after airing it outside for an hour in the 40 degree weather, the slow speed setting worked again with the container on the base (before the spindle would turn but would not work with the base on it even though I was confident that it was secured correctly), something it hadn't done in MONTHS. I don't know if the cold weather changed the metal configuration or the smoking inside the motor and belts did something. If the blender died, it would make my decision to get a VM much easier and more immediate.

Since there is not a bottom opening to the VM containers, is it not a challenge to remove the mixed contents (other than highly liquid items like soup or salsa) even with a spatula? I think of the potential hassle of getting nut butters, ice cream, or kneaded dough, out of the container, even with a spatula. This is one reason why I thought a smaller container, such as a 32 or 48 oz. container would reduce such a challenge. (My Oster container is a 5 cup / 40oz capacity, and other than making soup, I can't see the need for a 64 oz container.)

[scubadoo97]

FB, the VM does a fantastic job with frozen fruit sorbets with the smallest addition of liquid.
This would stop my Blendtec and shut it down. With the high speed setting and the built in plunger you can get all the fruit evenly processed without much liquid. You need some but not a lot and the product will have a thick sorbet/ice cream texture that you're looking for.

We do these often with strawberries and blueberries and also I love the banana sorbets because like you said they have a more creamy texture.

I start out on low then turn the dial up to max then immediately flip the switch to high and plunge like the dickens. It's loud and I often think this machine is a beast. The power is amazing.

[MacGuffin]

I think rather than post answers to your rather long list of questions, you should just contact Vitamix direct (it's a toll-free call). They're extremely nice and aren't into the hard sell at all. If it helps to assuage your doubts about the largest container, I'm a single person and have never had, nor had a desire to own, one of the smaller containers. One can process a minimum of 4 oz. in the 2 l/64 oz. container and it's very easy to clean. I like to run up a large soup recipe (in fact there's one here on Chow for sweet potato soup that I do almost entirely in my Vita-Mix) now and then and you just can't do that in a smaller container. Also, the wet blades are dull so they won't take a beating if you grind grains in them--the container will (it'll cloud). The dry container is engineered to handle grains better and keep them from excessive heating and yes, that container will cloud, too. If you think you'll be grinding grain and legumes, it's worth the investment, otherwise don't bother (I've never had the urge to own one and I have no regrets whatsoever).

This might interest you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjQBdU... . This is an upgrade for the current Pro (I think) 500; I'm sure there'll be a similar upgrade without the presets (I hate presets).

[rasputina]

I agree with you that it's overkill for pureeing liquids, soups and soft fresh fruits. So it probably wasn't a need for you.

Having said that. I just bought the dry container for my vitamix for 107 dollars on Amazon. I didn't buy it because I thought I'd save money on flour that I could buy at the market. I bought it for what I can't readily buy. To make sprouted flours and freshly ground whole meal flour.

I use my vitamix all the time in summer to make instant ice cream that is firm enough to scoop. You can't do that will a regular blender.

[pmadams]

Ah yes, "needs"... Well, I'll have to admit that the VitaMix investment wasn't entirely need based, but compared to other investments I make like sailboat hardware for instance, the expense has been pretty low, all things considered. And unlike new blocks or a winch, I can make a pretty good cocktail with the VitaMix to soothe my nerves from the fleecing I took at the chandlery.

The $150. price I quoted was on VitaMix's webpage. I wasn't aware that Amazon sold their stuff. My interest was largely like yours I think, in that I want to make flour from beans and brown rice. Those two are very difficult to find in this area. I could probably go $107. for one. I've got an old ice cream churn, otherwise I might be making it with the VitaMix, too. It's great for pureeing black bean soup, although my attempts at making hummus turn out more like Sacrete than anything recognizable.

Thanks for the responses.

p

[pmadams]

I forgot to mention that when I was a kid, my mom had one of the old (it was new then) stainless steel container VitaMix's and she used it constantly. This is the largest reason I bought one myself, remembering how well that one worked. I believe she still has it and know it was in use as little as two years ago. That's quite a track record.

And MacGuffin makes a good point about the components being US made. I'm getting rather tired of supporting the Chinese economy at this point...

[MacGuffin]

"I'm getting rather tired of supporting the Chinese economy at this point..."

AMEN. And the fact of the matter is that we're talking excellent quality. The occasional lemon is only a minor inconvenience because the manufacturer bends over backward to make good.

[APuckish1]

For those still considering a VitaMix, I learned 2 techniques and 2 critical differences over the last year or so. I started with a 20+ year old Osterizer with 16 speeds. When I first started looking at a VitaMix, I read everything - including the manual. My old blender went from a really pain, and nearly useless, to efficient and easy to use. The 2 techniques I started using were to put liquids in the bottom, then continue with softest to hardest ingredients; and second, start on low speed and move all the way up to high. It suddenly became pretty rare to glob up the blender when making stuff.

The two critical differences I've encountered are dealing with fibrous greens and completeness of "the smooth." Where the motor really came into play was when I started making green smoothies on a daily basis. My wife had bought me a Cuisinart smoothie maker in hopes of making my Osterizer go away; the problem was that when I used fibrous greens (chard, kale, dandelions, etc) in brought the Cuisinart to its knees; the Osterizer pulled through, but with heavy loads it was straining. The final difference was smoothness. The Osterizer just can't get the blackberry seeds to disappear, can't completely liquify a lime peel (though the resultant size is negligible), and can't completely eradicate the green pieces - this gives the smoothy a chewy character. Not bad, but not smooth.

There are a bunch of things that the Vita-Mix can do that the Osterizer simply can't, but those have been well covered here. So stretch your blender until you can move up, then move.

[twyst]

Yes, its a hefty investment, but its a great tool. I use mine daily for breakfast, and also use it tons for soups.

[Funkalicious]

YES !!!

I bought a vitaprep 2years ago for under $400 from commercial restaurant vendor on Ebay. Not sure how I lived with out it. I use it everyday. I just made super smooth hummus in my vitamix.

I got mad love for my Vitamix.

[Candy]

No

[russmead]

I went with the vita prep. It has a larger motor than some of the other vita mixes. Anything you can do with a blender you can do with this professional grade appliance. If you are serious about cooking it is a serious tool and serious tools are expensive in any trade. Yes I would buy it again without regret. You don't really buy a vita prep, you invest in one. Want proof? Once you own one you will start noticing them in restaurant kitchens, and bars where they run them hard every day.

[MacGuffin]

The home-use machine is no less serious and runs at exactly the same speeds as the Prep and functions identically to it. The larger motor is to accommodate its fan, i.e., so that the machine doesn't overheat under the demands of a commercial kitchen. I'm sure you'll be happy with your Prep but bear in mind that the warranty for home use isn't very good and if something goes wrong (and things can--this isn't a perfect world), you're pretty much on your own. You also aren't eligible for the same phone support.

[Seitan]

The VP3 has a 3 HP motor, whereas the VM home machine has a 2 HP motor. The max blade speed is the same, but the VP3 can sustain a higher speed longer and over heavier workloads. The larger fan is required for this. The function buttons are indeed the same.

[MacGuffin]

"The max blade speed is the same, but the VP3 can sustain a higher speed longer and over heavier workloads."

Very true. But the only home-user that would require this is someone who'd, e.g., be running a food service business from home. The Vitamix does what it does rather fast so running it for long periods--i.e. all day, every day--isn't a likely scenario. And then there's the warranty and phone support...

[Candy]

NOooooooo

[scubadoo97]

Why?

[TinaDallas]

I have the Vitamix 5200 - I purchased a refurbished one for only $379 several years ago
from www.Vitamix.com. I love it and use it daily for so many things. It's fast, versatile, easy to clean, can even make soup. And still comes with a 7 yr warranty. I signed up to be an affiliate - so if you use my affiliate code, you will get free shipping in US or Canada. I can't post the code here due to their regulations, but you can go to my website www.beforeverhealthy.com and it's on the home page in the upper left corner. :-)

[MacGuffin]

Refurbs are a VERY good deal; I know of many folks who've bought them and not one has ever said that you could tell theirs from new. Be aware, though, that Vitamix is legally required to soak you for the appropriate (if such an adjective can be applied) tax if they've ever held demos in your state during the last seven years. Aside from that, free shipping on a refurb is the way to go. :)

[TinaDallas]

Thanks MacGuffin I didn't know about the tax charge...

[MacGuffin]

It truly sucks. It's not like the demonstrators and affiliates (or even the manufacturer, for that matter) benefit.

[macjonesnz]

Amazon seems to have the best range of these.

http://astore.amazon.com/vtmx-20

Beware if buying from 240 volt countries like Australia and New Zealand that they are NOT cheaper after you consider that you would need a very large transformer to reduce the power and still keep enough current to run the mixer. $400+

[MacGuffin]

Avoid the 4500 (one of which is pictured). No variable speed, narrower RPM range on both the high and low ends than the 5000 series. Also be aware that what Amazon is calling the CIA Restaurant Commercial blender is NOT a commercial product. It's a home-use product and isn't rated for commercial use (unlike the Vita-Prep).

I'm not sure I understand your comment about Australia and New Zealand (which is where I'm guessing you live).

[shcak1]

I have a question, I've been told that it can be a food processor as well as a blender. Now , I don't want puree all the time, so does it come with attachments, or how does this work? Thanks

[scubadoo97]

I think if you pulse it it will chop as would a food processor. I don't think it can completely replace a food processor but I'm using mine a lot more than the food pro at this time

[MacGuffin]

I'd have to agree although if I were forced to choose one for versatility, I go with the Vitamix (I don't even remember the last time I used my Cuisinart). And the only extra for the Vitamix is the "dry" container for grinding grains and such; you can also opt for regular containers that are smaller than the standard 64 oz./2 l. Other than that, what you see is what you get.

[sueatmo]

If I were to be interested in a refurbished VitaMix, which is the only VitaMix I would be interested in, where do I locate one?

Thanks MacGuffin.

[MacGuffin]

Join our group: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/... ; we can point you in the right direction! Or, you can contact Vitamix direct but I think you'll have to pay the shipping.

[rasputina]

I love my vitamix, but it is not a substitute for a food processor.

[mangolassi]

I have had mine for 13 years - use it all the time - and love it!

[Gwailo]

Is the 5200 really better than the 5000? QVC has a special today: Vitamix 5000 which includes a dry container and free shipping for $446.
The Vitamix Super 5200 is listed at $549.
I haven't heard of any features of the 5200 that are worth the additional $103.

[MacGuffin]

The 5000 is basically the same but it's an older machine; the motors were made here rather than in Sweden and they don't run as cool. I've been using my 5000 for seven years now.
I posted a link yesterday to my friend's site--talk to her (her phone number is there as well) about a refurbished 5200; I think you'll be happy with the price.

[BedazzledLV]

I Ditto Mac... why not get a refurbished unit, buy a dry container(if you really need it) which in total would cost about the same as the 5000...i mean really if you aren't milling your own grains what would you use it for? I'm just curious.
you can even do the vitamix 3 easy pay option. A cooler engine means it will last longer.

[BedazzledLV]

I know this is a pretty old post... But being that I've had my vitamix a year now, I must admit it is the best blender I've ever had the pleasure to own. I was contemplating getting the BlendTec, but after thorough research I am much happier with my vitamix.

ATTENTION: If you are in the market for a blender, go to Vitamix.com, and buy the Factory Reconditioned 5200. That's what I did and it saved me a boat load of money, same great product, same great warranty, same whole foods recipe book, new 64 oz. BPA-free container, new lid & tamper, ... and guess what...$70 CHEAPER(not including the extra sales tax & delivery fees+$25 surcharge you pay for through william sonoma)!
Oh wait! Better yet, call in your order and ask to use the 3-payment plan option and order it sooner than you thought.

LINK TO RE-FURBISHED UNIT:
https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores...

[MacGuffin]

You can get refurbs from demonstrators as well (and they get to make a buck, which is nice). My aforementioned friend can also get you free shipping although I think there's a finance charge if you do the payment plan. Bear in mind that refurbs aren't always available; I think Vitamix waits until they accrue some before making the offering. And you're right--same warranty, same everything, and I'm told you can't tell them from new.

[scubadoo97]

After getting my Vitamix 5200 a couple of months ago, I came across a deal from Blendtec for a refurb with 2 jars and a 10 yr warranty for $250. The refurb looks brand new. I just couldn't pass up the deal and I think I heard they sold thousands of them over just a couple of days. More than they could possibly have as refurbs.

Now owning them both I can say that I like the Blendtec jars way more than the Vitamix jar. The wide straight sides are so much easier to evacuate. The Blendtec does a better job without the need of a tamper but there are times that the Blendtec needs a tamper as well if you over do the frozen stuff. The Vitamix's tamper is well designed and there is no risk or getting it into the blades.

Even though the Vitamix has a lower powered motor the high setting seems much faster than the Blendtecs highest setting. The Blendtec's base is smaller and looks more like a normal blender unlike the big and heavy Vitamix base and the jars are not so tall that they won't sit under the cabinets. Even with having both blenders the choice is not a slam dunk. They each have their pluses and minuses. I'll end up giving one to one of my kids but to tell you the truth, I'm not sure which one I want to part with.

[MacGuffin]

The reason why the Blendtec's highest setting seems slower than the Vitamix's is because it is (just as the Vitamix's lowest setting is lower--I think I posted the particulars on another board). It's not all a matter of HP, e.g., the commercial Vitamix--the Vita-Prep 3--has a 3+ HP motor. This is a full HP more than the 5000 and 5200 but the machines perform identically in that the RPM at the highest and lowest speeds are identical. However, that extra HP is there to keep the Prep running cooler in a commercial kitchen. I don't know what it's there for in the Blendtec but I do know that HP is only one factor of how well an appliance performs; engineering makes a huge difference and determines how efficiently that power is utilized.

[BedazzledLV]

So well put Mac... I personally would give away the blendtec. I make frozen fruit smoothies daily, and now I know my blender... I don't need a tamper. I use frozen fruit and OJ. I start on low, then quickly use the adjustable level to high, if mix gets frozen - add oj. Start again and turn knob to high... This should take 2-3 secs. Now that you see the mix is spinning, flip switch to high mode. Tap carafe lightly if top of smoothie mix is not spinning like the lower half. This mode for 30 seconds should break down all your berry seeds to perfection... Enjoy!
To make a fruit smoothie for 1 tall ice tea glass
Approx recipe:
oj to 1 notch above the #1 marker
3-4 strawberries
1-2 slices peach or mango
4 rasberrys
4 blackberrys
1/8 cup blueberrys
* I use all frozen fruit, makes a very potent smoothie, but if you like to add ice, half the ammount of frozen fruit should be used

[MacGuffin]

I don't think I've ever used ice in a smoothie--the closest I've come is skim milk cubes. I want 'em INTENSE! However, if you want to make ice cream or nut butter, you need to use that tamper. :)

[BedazzledLV]

LOL... yes deff for sorbet and ice cream, and nut butters I'm sure its indispensable. Im sure if you are doing green smoothies its also essential... Hubby and I don't drink much dairy...I prefer yogurt to add creaminess but im sure skim milk works for those that like it. My friend loves to use almond milk, which i really love also. I love that there are so many ways to make them.

[OSCARJORDAN]

Just took our Vitamix blender out of box. My wife's Naturopath suggested the machine. Question: How much of the vitamine and mineral supplements do you think she can substitute by using the Vitamine blender? She is now taking large amount of "pills" to supplement her immunce system. I am going to try to lose weight with the help of this machine.

[MacGuffin]

Despite being somewhat "into health," I have no problem with over-the-counter supplements and don't demonize them. It should also be pointed out that supplements usually contain far more nutrients than one can ever hope to ingest in a day's worth of food and that unless you're picking your own produce (hardly a practical option for most of humanity) and either eating it on the spot or freezing it immediately, some denaturing is bound to occur. Supplements can help to "fill in the blanks" and in the case of water-soluble nutrients, any excess is harmlessly excreted (fat-soluble vitamins are another matter and need to be treated in a much less cavalier fashion); in addition, some people claim to benefit from "stress levels" of certain vitamins, e.g., the B's.
I don't know why your wife is taking supplements or if she needs the amounts being provided by them; regardless, whether or not she can achieve similar benefits through diet is something only she, and possibly her health care provider, can answer. Also, I know of a number of people who have lost weight by using the Vitamix but so much has to do with the quality of ingredients used; if you can find meals with healthful ingredients satisfying and avoid empty calories and too much fat (something else I don't demonize--fat's essential), you'll probably lose weight.

Feel free to join our support group if you think we can help. And most important at this stage, PLEASE FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH ALL OF THE INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL BEFORE USING THE MACHINE. If you're going to make recipes, e.g., that include frozen ingredients, you can't just toss everything into the container--there's a procedure that needs to be followed. It's a powerful machine and learning to use it correctly requires some schooling--use what the manufacturer provides in order to achieve this end.
Could I ask which model you bought?

[OSCARJORDAN]

Thank for comprehensive answer to my post. I have a 5200vs model. Today grandchildren are visiting. Going to let them make a desert with it under supervision of course. Can you do hot chocolate in the machine? I guess milk would weird out in the machine? Oscar. Thanks.

[MacGuffin]

Congrats--I just wanted to make sure you don't have a 4500. You're going to be VERY happy with your Vitamix!
Yes, you can absolutely do hot chocolate although, based on the starting temperature of the milk, it might be running (and it's loud) for some time. When I make soups and such, I start with boiling-hot liquid to lessen cooking time but if you're going to start with hot milk for chocolate, you might as well do it on the stove. However, start with cold milk out of the refrigerator and leave the room for 5 or 6 minutes while it runs; you can get an idea of just how powerful the machine is. Be sure to "walk it up," i.e., don't start out on HIGH (lots of splattering); start on the lowest variable speed as described in your instructional material. And be sure not to run your Vitamix on ANY of the VARIABLE speeds for too long, especially with thick mixtures; the fan kicks in only on HIGH and the overload protector will trip if the machine is running too hot. This is a good thing because your motor can't be damaged but the blender will be out of commission for a good 20 minutes (possibly longer). This is another reason to follow the directions re ingredient placement--liquids and soft items MUST be placed on the bottom.

Why not go through the how-to book and DVD with the kids? It'll not only be fun for all of you but can spark a possibly lifelong interest in cooking and good nutrition that will always be associated with memories of good time with "the 'rents." :)

...BTW, it occurs to me that my friend's Web site has LOTS of tips (with videos!) and might be useful: http://worknotes.com/FL/VitaMixLady/A... . Nice for watch more technique demos.

[yayadave]

For hot chocolate I heat the milk in the microwave. While it's heating, I put about 3 t semi-sweet chocolate chips and a bit of sugar in the VitaMix. Add the hot milk and start on a slow speed. Slowly increase the speed, then blend till it froths.

[John E.]

Try it with 1/4 cup of plain M & Ms, no additional sugar, for each cup of hot milk. It's the easiest, best hot chocolate ever. (Well, ok you could make better hot chocolate using premium chocolate and 1/2 & 1/2, but that would be decadent).

[yayadave]

It occurred to me to mention that our VitaMix 5000 gets used much more, almost daily, now that it resides on the counter. That became possible when I bot a 32 oz. pitcher. Three things happened. 1. The shorter pitcher allows the base with the pitcher on top to fit under the cabinets. 2. The base doesn't have to be moved to use the blender. 3. As an added bonus, the new top has "ears" that make it much easier to remove. I thought this was worth comment.

[iyc_nyc]

Yayadave, how tall is the blender in total with the 32 oz pitcher, and where did you get the pitcher? Thanks!

[scubadoo97]

iyn-nyc, you can get the shorter wet pitcher from Vitamix. My experience was that most websites that sell the Vitamix are linked to Vitamix in the final sale. I know that for the most part the smaller 32 oz pitcher will allow the blender to sit under standard cabinets without having to separate the pitcher from the motor base. The price of the shorter pitcher will be around $130 which includes the blade. Maybe a few dollars less on some websites. You can get a smaller pitcher without the blades for much less

[iyc_nyc]

Great, thanks, scuba!

[yayadave]

I just measured it. With the lid on, I got 17 1/8". I can't believe I paid $130. I think it was more like $80 or $90 at a demonstration at Costco. Maybe prices have gone up that much. Check out the VitaMix web site. Lots going on there. You can find out where and when they have demonstrations. It might be worth your while. Maybe they have a deal with Costco.

By the way, it comes with a short tamper.

[iyc_nyc]

Thanks - that might have removed my last excuse to not get one!

[ziggylu]

I agree about the 32 oz container. We bought one last year and were able to put the machine on the counter. It gets used so much more now.

I also have to say that the ease of clean-up for the VitaMix vs any other blender or food processor we've ever owned makes the investment worth it! Every time I use it and clean I say to my husband "absolutely worth the money!" I have always hated every other machine we ever owned because of clean up.

[iyc_nyc]

okay, it's next on my list. Thanks to all for your feedback - didn't want an appliance i cldn't fit on my counter under the cabinets, but problem solved!

will likely follow up later - when ready to buy - w many questions abt model, etc.

[MacGuffin]

Join our support group. It's owned by a demonstrator (and no, it's not me) and its members comprise a group who among them are using just about every home model available. In a nutshell, with the exception of the "Pro" model with the presets, all of the home models perform exactly the same--same motor, same controls, different cookbooks (most but not all of which have identical content), different warranties ("Creations" model), slightly different exteriors. My suggestion is to go for a refurbished 5200--full 7-year warranty, cosmetically perfect, great value.

[iyc_nyc]

thanks - great advice. i probably won't go refurbished but great to know the models are largely the same.

[ziggylu]

Unfortunately, i don't think I can find a corroborating endorsement on Sweet Maria. ;-) LOL

( i bought mine at a roadshow Costco and recommend that if you can find the option around you. I also bout the small pitcher there. I think it was $75 or so)

[MacGuffin]

The Sweet Maria's site ROCKS! I don't even drink coffee (absolutely loathe the taste) but there's just something so appealing about a fanatic. I'm glad they're still around.

[iyc_nyc]

Haha, just connected the dots. Your endorsement suffices. :-)

[MacGuffin]

:)

[ziggylu]

I ordered the Pino a couple hours ago. I'll be looking forward to exchanging reviews on the Pino and the VitaMix with you in the future!

Also watch QVC for when they offer the VitaMix. They have a pretty good price on it. I also got an email today from VitaMix with a Reconditioned sale...$359 https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores...

[MacGuffin]

Reconditioned is a GREAT deal, better than the QVC Creations, I think. For one thing, you get the full 7-year warranty instead of 5 and the machine's exterior is a little snazzier; I also think the Creations' container doesn't have the soft grip. However, the machines perform identically, the containers (excepte maybe the dry ones) are all BPA-free, and the content of the cookbook seems to be the same, too (QVC has a link to it on their Web site).

[scubadoo97]

Is it worth it? We shall see. A 5200 hit my door step today
I'll report my findings

[sedimental]

I have used mine for many years. I find that my usage varies. Sometimes I get really into bread making so I grind all my own flours, other times- I am really into sauces, sometimes I get into creamed soups or ice cream. I go through phases. LOL.

It will take you some time to figure out everything you can do with it and what will be routine vs sporadic use. The cool thing is that it will make everything easier to do.

[MacGuffin]

Read the manual and watch the DVD before attempting anything. And if you haven't already, join our support group (link is in my response to MozeyPo on 1/16/11). :)

[scubadoo97]

So far I have to say I have not had any regrets on my purchase. I've made a few soups that have been excellent both in flavor and texture. Gazpacho, corn soup and a broccoli chease soup so far. Smoothies go without saying. It will take a lot of time to put it through it's paces and figure out where it's best used. I don't plan on going on a liquid diet anytime soon so this may take a while but so far so good.

[John E.]

I have a Vita Mix question. I saw an old model at a flea market for sale dir $75. It looked to be at least 30 years old. There was another guy looking at it already and he tested it (plugged it in and turned it on) and bought it. The question I have is if given the opportunity, should I purchase such an old Vita Mix? Would it have enough life left in it to warrant purchasing it?

[MacGuffin]

Very possibly and even probably. But you really ought to go for a refurbished 5200 if you can fit it into your budget (I think it's $379 + tax, free shipping, 7-year warranty). The old machines are great but the new ones are a lot more versatile.

[John E.]

Maybe someday, but right now ain't no way I'm spending that kind of money, even on a VitaMix. I'm sure I would like it quite a lot but if I'm going to spend that kind of money on something and talk my better half into spending that kind of money, I'd rather buy something that would bring me more satisfaction, like another deer rifle. I might be able to get her to believe SHE needs a VitaMix however. 

[MacGuffin]

Ah! Good idea! Maybe you can get your rifle AND your Vitamix!

[Kat47]

I have an old vitamix 4000 that I've used for over a decade and it still works great. I had a friend who bought a less expensive brand that purported to do the same thing and it leaked oil in her food. I would love to buy the newer ones that look like blenders, but this one still works so well. It was definately a great investment.

[MacGuffin]

I had a 4000 for years and let me tell you, my 5000 kicks its butt (the 5200 is the current model). If you use your Vitamix a lot I don't think you'd regret an upgrade. You could either hang on to your 4000 and save some money by buying a refurbished 5200 or use your 4000 for partial credit towards a new 5200 (this option only direct through Vitamix rather than a demonstrator). If you think you'll use it to grind grains, definitely get the dry container as well (something I knew I'd never need).

[iL Divo]

I had mine for a long enough time after buying it at a price I could not resist. Wanted it cause I was gonna be a juicer. After trying to ask for any and all help with how to clean that thing (not only did nothing work but no advice worked either) I put it up on the community mailbox with a sign, take it free. As you would assume it was gone by next day.

[MacGuffin]

Do you mean a Vitamix or a Champion?

[destinjoy]

Hi! After breaking my Cuisinart blender 6 months ago I've been debating a Vitamix myself and finally took the plunge. I just purchased the Vitamix Professional CIA series (1363 model number, platinum color) from Bed, Bath & Beyond. (20% off coupon and hassle free returns a bonus). My grandmother bought her Vitamix in the 70s and our family is still using it. These are incredible machines worth every penny and I love it that the new models are clear.

ps. I made a roasted eggplant and tomato soup today which was fantastic. Tomorrow morning I'll test it out for a spinach smoothie.... :)

I also have a juicer (Champion model) which i love but its a hassle to clean so I'm going to experiment with using the Vitamix and cheesecloth/nut milk bag to drain out the pulp.

[MacGuffin]

I see you joined our group--I approved you. :)
FWIW, cheesecloth isn't suited to the purpose described because the weave is too loose and the cotton absorbs juice. If you go to the Enthusiasts home page, you'll find links including one to an eBay seller who has very reasonably priced nut milk bags (I use them myself, as do a number of other members).

[MozeyPo]

I've been wanting a Vitamix or something similar for sometime now, and I just came across a used Montell Williams Health Master approximately 7mo. old (so I'm assuming it's a newer model) for a price of $75.00. Does anyone have experience with one of these and do they perform well? I have a friend who has a Vitamix and loves it but right now the price is a bit too high for me. However, I want something I can use often, performs well, and will last, as my Son and I want to start eating healthier and I know this is a great way to go. Right now we do smoothies but my blender (which is a good one) doesn't have near the capabilities that these machines do.

[MacGuffin]

DON'T DO IT! One of my e-friends (another longtime Vitamix owner) owns a number of lists specific to various health issues (she herself is allergic to just about everything). She bought a Health Master late last year to see if it was something she could recommend to her members who couldn't afford a Vitamix--with very moderate use, it burned out in LESS THAN ONE WEEK. You can verify her experience by checking the Amazon reviews--I'd read them and told her what to expect but she wanted to determine for herself (the right move under the circumstances).
I'm a moderator on a group dedicated to the Vitamix: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/... ; the list owner is a Vitamix demonstrator and she's PASSIONATE about the machine. Why don't you join and talk to her about a refurbished machine? You can save a LOT of money on a machine that you can't tell from new and that carries the same warranty (in fact, her own Vita-Mix 5000 is a refurb) and you can also discuss the Healthmaster with the member who bought it to try.

[westsidegal]

one of the things i love about the blender i am currently using is that i can disassemble it and put all the parts (except the motor) in my dishwasher.
the vitamix blender jar (which i've only seen in plastic, no glass) doesn't seem like it would take well to daily dishwasher cleaning. . ..
am i wrong?

[NotJuliaChild]

You clean it by rinsing it out as soon as you're done using it, filling it halfway with water, adding a few drops of dish soap, then blending on high power for 20 seconds. Rinse out the suds and it's good as new.

[Becca Porter]

Yeah, I do the above cleaning when it is convenient. I also wash it in the dishwasher when it is not. No problems so far.

[betryears]

I might have missed a post. Have a # 4000 great working condt. What advantage does the 5200 have? Many thanks.

[MacGuffin]

I used my 4000 from 1988 until 2004 without a hitch and in fact, Vitamix gave me a $75 credit for it and paid to ship it back to them (it was still working perfectly). But the 5200 is a MUCH more powerful and versatile machine--for one thing, you can blend as little as 4 oz. whereas the 4000 requires a minimum of 16. In addition, it runs at both lower and higher speeds than the 4000 which means that you can safely process something at a lower speed without its immediately turning into purée. I miss that it doesn't run in reverse but truly, it doesn't need it (I kinda liked the spigot...it's gone, too). Also, the results are even smoother than those with the 4000. The "Healthmaster" friend cited in my previous post recently upgraded her 4000 to a 5200 (I have to admit that I gave her a shove) and I now enjoy rubbing it in that I did because she LOVES it. And this was a lady who never saw the need to upgrade. And of course, you get the same great customer service, the same 7-year warranty, and they're still made in Cleveland. The only time I had a problem with my 5000 was when I stupidly left a spoon in it. Not a covered repair but it was my own fault and only $25 to fix.

[betryears]

Many thanks, can you give me a shove,too? Mine is a true work horse.Let's see 7 yr warranty mmmmmmmm At 83 will I care? So glad to find Chowhound. Everyone
is helpful, full of wisdom & always done in a kind way.

[MacGuffin]

Hey, think positive--clearly you're younger than your years! :)
Join our Vitamix group (mentioned above). We'll have you inspired in no time! In fact, one of our members recently turned her whole life around with a 4000 that someone gave her. She not only has dropped about 50 lbs. and can work again, but she reversed her diabetes and high blood pressure, makes her own kefir, and walked out on a 30-year unhappy marriage, and it all started with a 4000! We also have a member in her 70s who has had a Vita-mix for a good 40 years who got me into sprouting and making my own kombucha. It's a fun place, even if we get a little off topic at times.

[socphi]

My Kitche aid blender does fine. Im not sure if it will heat stuff up though. Also, never tried "ice cream". What ingredients would I use to make "vegan ice cream"

[MacGuffin]

You could probably check for recipes online (Recipezaar and Allrecipes both have tons of recipes of all kinds). You'll need an ice cream maker, though.
To make something like a soft-serve ice cream in a Vitamix, you need to add about 25% cold liquid to 75% frozen ingredients (e.g., frozen fruit, custard recipe frozen into cubes, etc.) and then blend briefly. A load like this will burn out your blender in nothing flat.

[AussieMum5]

I'd love a VitaMix. Has anyone seen one for less than $1000 in Australia? Don't think hubby will be too thrilled with me forking out that much.

Would we need a food processor also? We want to do a lot of raw food "cooking". So would need to crush up nuts and make nut cream/milk etc. Is the VitaMix enough?

[MacGuffin]

For making nut milks and the like the Vita-Mix is absolutely enough and is, in fact, perfect. Food processors work differently. I have both but if I had to choose one, I'd opt for the Vita-Mix because it's a lot more versatile. I hope you can fit one into your budget because they're terrific for a raw diet.

[AussieMum5]

Thanks. Not in our budget yet I'm afraid! :-) I have a dodgy old blender that may have to do for now. I might have to go for a 2nd hand food processor for now until we can manage the cost of a VitaMix.

Any idea why the cost of one is doubled here? They're around $500 in the US and over $1000 here. The exchange rate just isn't that bad anymore! LOL

[MacGuffin]

My guess is that the cost of shipping factors in significantly. Even regular mail from here to Oz is extremely expensive and Vita-Mixes weigh quite a bit, plus there might be duty on your end. Combine that with the exchange rate and the cost of adapting the machines for use in Australia (we're 120 V and 50/60 Hz; you're 240 V and and 50 Hz) and you have yourself one expensive appliance. The sad part is that I think you're one upgrade behind us--you have access to the 5000 (which is what I have) whereas the latest model here is the 5200 (I think they perform identically).

[AussieMum5]

Thanks again! :-) Actually, I have seen the 5200 for sale and it's $1,050 plus postage costs. Yikes!

I stumbled upon a 2nd hand one on eBay yesterday with only a few minutes to go. Didn't have time to discuss it with hubby first... it went for around $170 + $80 postage AUD! So what? About $230US all up I guess? Talk about the one that got away. It didn't seem to be that old a model either.

I'll keep watching eBay as they might pop up from time to time, especially from VitaMix lovers who want to upgrade and on-sell their older models!

Thanks again for your help. :-)

[MacGuffin]

SHOOT! Well, keep your eyes open. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.
I looked into a 5200 for a friend in the Netherlands and was shocked at how much the cost of adapting added to the price of the machine--yikes!
Just don't go for for anything below a 5000; the models previous to that last forever (the company prides itself on building the machines well) but they're just not as powerful or versatile as the newer ones.

[Seitan]

That's probably true. I do miss the reverse switch of the 4000 all stainless steel model though. Those things were like Buicks. At the restaurant I used to work at, we had one for several years.

[MacGuffin]

They still last forever and as has been previously stated, they REALLY stand behind their product.

[Nikki NYC]

I purchased a reconditioned Vita-Mix 5200 this past Fall. I use it at least twice a day on average, and I have lost 20 pounds. For me, it was totally worth it and then some.

[EWSflash]

I was rteading reviews on the VitaMix (don't recall which model) and a surprising percentage of reviewers said it leaked- like nearly half of the reviews.

Do any of you Vitamix owners out there have any insight as to what the deal is with the leaking? I've never even touched one (but boy would I ever like to)- the leaking thing put me off a little.

[MacGuffin]

Leaking from where? The container and blade comprise a single unit, i.e., the container isn't taken apart for cleaning, unlike most blenders. I've never had a leak from the bottom. The lid on my 4000 leaked when it was time to replace its rubber gasket (a royal pain if I didn't have any on hand) but the newer models have rubber lids that snap into place. Mine has never leaked. After the 4000, I thought I'd died and gone to heaven.

[EWSflash]

I'm not sure, it's been a few weeks since I read the reviews (but it may have been on Amazon).

Thanks for your input!

[MacGuffin]

A pleasure! Keep in mind that if such a thing should occur, the warranty's for seven years and the machine is made here. They take customer satisfaction very seriously.

[krick]

Never experienced any leaking with mine.

[Wolfgang]

I made a pot of potato, turnip and carrot soup over the weekend. When it was finished cooking, I transferred it over to our VitaMix in patches to puree. I switched the blender to low and hit the power button and there was enough upward force of the contents for soup to escape out the top. I poured out that batch--amazingly it was perfectly blended in the 1 second i had it on--and tried the next batch, thinking that this was an aberration, blending soup in a blender was common, and i'd just hold down the lid and stick tighter. Once again, I filled the blender about halfway and turned it on. this time it was bad. it blew up out the top and burned a large portion of the underside of my forearm and sprayed soup everywhere. Once again though, perfectly blended.
Thankfully, the soup was delicious. People swore that there was cream in it. The texture was velvety with a perfect amount of air.
I'm scared to ever blend a hot liquid in the blender again. Is this a known no-no? Never was the container more than halfway filled. We even tried it with about two inches of soup in it (fully covered with a towel) and it still blew up.
This blender is used almost daily with much pleasure for cold smoothies.

What went wrong?
Consequently, I'm looking for an immersion blender as I've used these in the past with no bad incidents but without the wonderful results from the Vita-Mix.

[Wolfgang]

Sorry, I meant Batches, not Patches. The Edit feature didn't want to save my edit.

[yayadave]

Perhaps you had the switch on "HIGH" in stead of "VARIABLE." That would have caused it to burst on at full speed.

I've had the same experiences with the immersion blender. It's nice, but it doesn't do what the VitaMix does. Maybe I need a $150 immersion blender. But then, now that I have the "short" one quart pitcher for the VitaMix, it lives on the counter where it's handy.

[Wolfgang]

We have the Turbo Blend 4500 and it only has two switches--a hi/low and off/on.

Thanks for your reply.

Maybe the soup was too hot.

[Claudette]

The lady demo'ing it at Costco today put in some hot water, but then let the mixer heat it up the rest of the way - hot soup without any explosions.

I've been coveting a VitaMix for years, and couldn't justify the price until I blew out both an Osterizer and a KitchenAid blender. Costco's got it for sale at $398.99 (with cookbook, DVD, etc.) and I just couldn't resist. ("Honey, guess what you just bought me for Christmas? It's cheaper than a divorce...")

[mandymoo]

<<("Honey, guess what you just bought me for Christmas? It's cheaper than a divorce...")>>

Ha ha ha! I'm using this line!!

[scubadoo97]

Cheeper to keep her

[greengoo]

I have a friend who burned her arm badly from blending hot soup (not the Vita-mix). I since noticed the instructions with my blender say not to blend hot liquids with the lid on (heat/steam pressure builds up and it can explode). I think this is a general principle with hot liquid rather than a blender-specific issue.

[scubadoo97]

That's why the Vitamix and Blendtec both have vented lids. This allows steam to escape and not blow the lid off. One should always take extra precautions when blending very hot liquids.

[yayadave]

I think part of the trick is to not start the blender at full speed, especially when it has hot soup (liquid and solids) in it.

[scubadoo97]

Never start the blender at high speed. It's best to start it on low with the reostat at the lowest setting and then rotate to the highest setting before flipping the switch to high speed. Turn off following the opposite directions so you end up on low at the lowest setting.

[MacGuffin]

I agree, if only because there's less splatter in the container when you "walk it up"; otherwise, you can start on HIGH but I don't recommend it and never do it. Starting on HIGH won't harm the Vitamix and it's not going to make any difference to hot liquids--as scubadoo97 stated, the vented cap in the lid ensures that enough steam escapes to prevent accidents.

[Paulustrious]

[my guess...]

When you blended the soup it heated the air inside the blender - which by now was also mixed with the soup. The air expanded and voila! You spray painted the kitchen.

You may get round this by 'shaking' the blender to heat up the air, and releasing the pressure. Then get on with the blending. To 'test' this I would put heavy bag over the top before switching it on again. And a test run outside might be in order.

[MacGuffin]

Wow, that's really bizarre (and horrible). I cook in my Vita-Mix on a regular basis and have never had such a thing happen, even with a nearly full container. I don't think there's such a thing as "too hot" in this machine--I start with boiling water and then add my ingredients (it's faster).
Are you sure your lid is snapped on properly? I've never used the 4500; I upgraded from a 4000 to a 5000 when it was the newest model. I've never understood why they made a machine without a variable control.
You really ought to call their customer service department--they're a very helpful bunch.
For what it's worth, Bamix is supposed to make the best immersion blenders.

[tasia3]

You can heat your soups in the Vitamix. Just put your ingredients in there and let it run for 5-6 minutes. Sorry to hear about your mishap-hot things can have a combustion type reaction and you do have to be very careful. Heating your soup as you blend it avoids this. An immersion blender is something to consider using in your cooking pot if you prefer.

[breadchick]

Just got a VitaMix and made cauliflower cheddar soup. Just blend the veggies after cooking, and pour the stock in a separate container - no need to add it to the VM. Dump the pureed veg back into the original soup pot and add just enough of the stock to make the soup as thick or thin as you want it.

I don't think I'd ever put the whole veg/stock mix in the VM. There's no real reason to do so. The machine rips through the veg and makes it smooth. Spoon it back in the pot, add your stock, and (if you want this) cream, see how thick it is. Add some (cheese, if you want it really good) and again some of the stock back in as needed. Heat and stir.

No blow ups in the VM.

I'm a newbie with the VM, but I based my steps on seeing what blows up in a blender on the tv. Just my 2 cents.

[TinaDallas]

I bought a refurbished vita-mix blender which is a little less expensive than a new one and comes with same 7 year warranty. I use it daily. The best thing about it is it's very easy to clean - no parts to take a part and clean, etc. Nice! And since the motor is so strong (2 HP) it is very fast and it blends seeds, etc. so smoothies come out really smooth. I blend spinach, bananas, fruit, almonds, a little water, with some honey and cinnamin and ice, every morning. A great way to get nutrients from fruits and veggies!! Fills me up in the morning til lunch time. I have a code for free shipping if you order online at www.vitamix.com - the code is 06-003789

[ApartmentDweller]

Thanks for the code, Tina!

I definitely could use a VitaMix for smoothies. What other things can it do? Would you say that it could replace a food processor?

[MacGuffin]

There's a Yahoo group for Vita-Mix users--may I suggest that you join and ask questions of other owners? Many of us have been using one model or another for many years (in fact, I think one member has had one for more than 40). All in all, it's a very nice, supportive group and there's lots of info in the archives, too.

[hungryfoodie]

has anyone using a vitamix made small amounts of chutneys? the reps say the vitamix can blend amts less than 5 oz! i have a hard time believing that! i'm looking for a blender that can say make a chutney out of peanuts and cilantro, but a bunch of cilantro really only makes about 1 cup. pls help me decide!

[MacGuffin]

It absolutely can. One of the reasons I love my machine (it's a 5000--the current model is the 5200) is because the minimum amount needed to process dropped from the 16 oz. required by previous models to 4! You can also buy a smaller container if you like but it'll be expensive unless you can hondle them (if you're ordering direct from Vita-Mix). Bear in mind that you should probably use a low speed for chutney because the higher speeds liquefy everything very quickly.

[vmiyoshi]

I have diabetes, I have known about it for about 2 years. I’m still in my 20’s, and I knew I needed to start eating better. I also felt the whole thing of you going to your doctor he/she tells you that you have diabetes or something like that then says “here take these pills for the rest of your life. See you every 3-6 months,” was kind of fishy. I started to do some research, and found many articles/papers/and blogs that support this theory of replacing processed foods, and man made fats with whole food as away of reversing diabetes naturally. I don’t know if I truly believe all the details of this, but it makes no since not to try it, and it gave me hope. And again, I don’t know about you but to me it seems strange that every time a doctor finds something wrong with you, they try to stick you on a pill or a group of pills to control “it” which you have to take for the rest of your life, not to mention these drugs of very, very bad documented side affects some including death!
The problem with this new healthy life I was an barking on is one eating heath is very expensive, or as I like to say “expensive for no reason.” Two neither my wife nor me can cook, and we have a bad habit of just grabbing something on the way to where ever we are going.
I watched this documentary called “The Beautiful Truth,” which left me wanting a juicer. I went to work and a friend of mine recommended a “Vita-mix,” because it blends whole foods, allowing you to get all the fiber among other things.
After a week I ordered one; the reverb’ed one which was $379, I had it shipped two day shipping. I got it today, and low and behold it doesn’t work! As you know I was very pissed the hell off! It feels like I’m the only one that had problems out of the box. I called Vita-mix, and the lady said she will ship me a label to ship it back, and once it’s in route, they will overnight me a new one. Which was fine at the time, I guess because I felt that maybe I can get it working, or something; but after fooling with it for a while I learned that wouldn’t be the case which made me even more upset. So I called them again, and spoke to a supervisor, I explained to her that I took off work today, went to a farmers market got some fresh fruit waited on the UPS man, only to realize the unit had a broken motor. She said she could overnight the shipping label, but the only problem is the mailroom was closed so it would ship out tomorrow and I should get it Friday. I would then have to turn around and ship this one back in order to have a new one shipped to me, she credited my back my shipping and gave me an extra year of warranty. I guess that’s the best she could do.
I have to wait tell sometime next week to give my review of it (to see if it’s worth all the money I spent on it).

[MacGuffin]

Having received defective applicances in the mail, I fully understand your frustration. A caveat: the Vita-Mix is a very powerful machine that can perform quite a few functions with no attachements of any kind. Given that, there's a learning curve involved--not a terribly steep one, but it exists nonetheless. The best thing to do would be to thoroughly acquaint youreslf with the reading material and the instructional DVD before starting to play with it and certainly before reviewing it (you really need to live with it a while); in that way, you have an excellent chance of avoiding even more frustration. Keep in mind that Vita-Mix has excellent customer service, a toll-free number, and is happy to help its customers. In addition, there's a really nice Yahoo Group that provides lots of support, swaps recipes, discusses health issues, etc. It's a very active group and the members are all very nice: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/vitamix... . In fact, I've become quite friendly with one new member who's seeing improvement with her health problems, including her diabetes, since getting her machine a month or so ago.
Be patient while you're learning and try not to expect too much too soon. It won't be long before you're comfortable with your new machine and can have fun with it. Most of us owners use them a LOT. They're great machines.

[yayadave]

I agree with your whole attitude about health care. But in this case, I think you want to daily keep track of your blood sugar. How else will you know what is working for you and what doesn't? One of the problems with diabetes is that it doesn't hurt anywhere.

[tasia3]

Read Victoria Boutenko's book 12 Steps to Raw Foods. I am in the process of adding many more "raw" or uncooked foods to my diet and have lost pounds and gained energy. She uses her Vitamix for just about everything. She has a DVD on Amazon for $15 that is very good for getting started. Good luck!

[heidi.ho]

Does anyone have experience grinding spices in a Vita-Mix? Does it need the dry blade? Does it scuff up the container? Am I better off using a blade-type coffee grinder?

[MacGuffin]

This came up in a Vita-Mix users' Yahoo group recently and it seems that yes, it does cloud the container. Especially given that spices tend to be ground in small amounts, I'd use something smaller.

[heidi.ho]

Thanks for the info.

[monku]

On a slightly different note....everytime my SO sees the Vitamix demo at Costco she's trying to talk me into buying one and I have to come up with every exucse not to get one.

Avoided getting one for her birthday and Christmas.....looking ahead to Mother's Day.

We have a hand mixer, blenders-Osterizer and Hamilton Beach (we don't even use them), Cuisinart food processor, Kitchen Aid mixer.......don't need another appliance.

[MacGuffin]

Well, you have a point but why not bite the bullet and get her one already? You can get rid of the other two blenders.
Why do you have two mixers and two blenders?

[monku]

Wedding gifts.....
One of those powerful hand mixers you can make cookie dough with and a Kitchen Aid stand mixer.
If both blenders break, then maybe I'd consider the VitaMix. Like one of the posters above mentioned, I don't know if we'd use it once every two weeks.
Probably one day I'll break down and get one.

[szaydel]

I hear what everyone else is saying, but here are my two cents:

First, unlike most everything else out there, it is made in the US, from start to finish, and I value our tradesmen. As such, I feel that alone makes the case. That said, my wife and I use it every day. We grind grain to make flour, make peanut butter, almond butter, etc., smoothies, various soups, creams, etc...

We spent money once, and we are enjoying the ease with which this machine does everything.

If you can afford to spend the money, and care about supporting workers in this country, you should get it, and I promise you will not be sorry. If you feel you will need it once every two weeks or so, forget it, you can get something for far less, and will likely still find it suitable.

[moreana]

In considering what you said your use for the blender is: fruit/veggie drinks, I would say no the VitaMix blender is not worth it at $500. I'm sure it does its job and has a great motor and can pulverize things like avocado like it claims. One of my friends does have one. But is that really what you need?

Personally, I've been extremely happy with my hand blender. I also own a juicer and I find it more convienent to juice it in the juicer, dump my fruit in the vegetable juice, then whip out the hand blender and mix everything in the 1 jug. It has been much easier to clean the head of the hand blender than my jug blender plus the juicer's jug. (I don't have a dishwasher.) I've also used my hand blender for puree hot soups in the pot rather than pouring it in the jug, and the food processor attachment for small tasks, like mincing shallots, garlics, nuts, etc.

[anniemax]

I use to think I was happy with all my other kitchen gadgets, much like you (and I have a lot of them), but I secretly longed for a VitaMix. I happened to come across one on Ebay a year ago that was mislisted, but I recognized by its thumbnail pic that it was indeed the ultimate blender of my dreams- an older VitaMix 5000, Total Nutrition Center/Whole Food Machine. Much to my delight, no one else recognized and I won the auction for the opening bid of $10....yes, I ended up paying more in shipping then I paid for it! It was complete, with it container, tamper and several cookbooks.

So many of my other 'must have' have been relegated to the basement shelf for unwanted appliances. And yes, I got a great bargain on my VitaMix in the end, but I probably have spent $400+ easily on those no longer needed appliances...plus lots of frustration when they didn't do what I wanted them to.

[Beckyleach]

I missed getting the same one, at a Goodwill, by literally seconds. I walked in the store, saw it on the back shelf, started RUNNING back, only to see a woman roll up her cart and lift it OFF the shelf, right before my horrified eyes.

Apparently it had sat on the shelf, unnoticed, for FIVE FREAKING DAYS. :-(

She got it for $12. I've never recovered.

[roxlet]

I gave one of these to my husband about 6 years ago as a birthday present. He is the king of the frozen cocktail, and the Vita Mix is so far superior to any other blender in getting the perfect "slushy" consistency. The pesto in it turns out creamy, & there is almost nothing that the belender can't do to perfection. Is it worth the money? It would depend on how you view it: we'd rather spend our money on a piece of equipment like this than dining out at mediocre restaurants. So we eat at home a lot and use our money to buy kitchen appliances that give us pleasure since they do their jobs so efficiently.

[MikeB3542]

That is sort of a false choice, don't you think?

I have neither the counterspace nor the amps to support that beast. It is easily in my category of cool appliances that I could justify if and only if someone is paying me to use.

I would shop through e-bay, and let someone else pay the sales commission and initial depreciation.

[roxlet]

I don't think so -- at least not for us. It is really a question of how you choose to use your disposable income. We dine out on special occasions and use the money that might otherwise be spent on meals out buying kitchen appliances that make cooking more fun and give us the results we want. The Vita Mix has paid for itself may times over.

[MacGuffin]

Its footprint isn't much bigger than that of other blenders; it's the height with the container that seems to be a problem for some kitchens. I have a small kitchen but enough space between countertop and cabinets to accommodate it with no problem. It just depends on your blending needs and how you eat. I agree that it's not for everyone--those who aren't going to use it much shouldn't invest in it. But you seem fixed on the notion that it's a blender, i.e., something that can be compared to a Waring or Osterizer. It blends, but it's in a different league altogether, plus it's manufactured here, not overseas. It's a remarkable appliance; those of us who swear by it aren't fanboys (or girls, in my case) and in fact, many are professional chefs. I seem to recall that Charlie Trotter uses it.

[roxlet]

Since we have limited counter space in our kitchen, our Vita Mix lives in a very easily accessible closet. For those who feel that the container is too tall to fit under their cabinets, I would suggest storing the container near-at-hand. There is really no reason why it has to live on the counter with the blender.

[MacGuffin]

LOL I could use more of both, believe me. So many appliances, so little space (not to mention money).

[yayadave]

Another answer to this problem is to just buy the smaller (shorter) pitcher.
https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores...

[roxlet]

Thanks for the link. What's this "wet blade/dry blade" business?

[MikeB3542]

The wet blade, which comes standard with the 5200, is a typical blender blade. The dry blade is extra, and is more of a chopper -- for instance, you can use the dry blade for milling flour from whole wheat grain.

No doubt, the VitaMix and a blender like my old (made in the USA) Osterizer are different. Like comparing a Hobart commercial mixer with a basic Kitchen Aid stand mixer. Just saying that I haven't come close to overwhelming my Osterizer.

And no joke, the 2hp motor on the VitaMix practically demands a dedicated circuit (it would draw nearly 15 amps!).

[MacGuffin]

I'm going to doubt that the 5200's blade is different than the 5000's and on that basis, I can tell you it's not the same as a standard blender's. It's heavier, duller, larger, shaped and oriented much differently, plus it's tooled from one piece of metal rather than two assembled pieces. My blender's blade assembly (I have a Proctor Silex that someone gave me) looks like a Tinker Toy in comparison which is fine because it's not expected to work as hard.
I hear ya about old, made-in-the-USA stuff. I had a 20-speed (yes, it's true) Oster for 30 years before it finally died (which prompted replacing my Vita-Mix 4000 with the 5000). I wanted to give it a ceremonial burial for a job well done, I was that sorry to see it go. I even e-mailed the company to tell them how much use I'd gotten from it; they never even acknowledged it (you'd think they'd want to use it for PR value). We used to make some good stuff; now we don't even make good customer service. :(
I've never had a problem running a Vita-Mix (it's 2+ HP, BTW) plus, in the overall scheme of things, it doesn't run all that much because it does what it's supposed to do rather quickly. The only time I run it more than a minute or so is when I cook in it.

[Paulustrious]

It's that word 'peak' you have to watch. If anyone uses that it tends to mean...nothing. My wet-n-dry vac claims a peak 5 hp. Obviously it cannot draw 3500 watts. The table saw in my workshop claims to 1.25 horse power. It draws over 20 amps. It also weighs about 50lb. Though in this case I think we are looking at output.

[AdamBoy]

Apples and oranges - a basic understanding of what horsepower actually is should make it obvious what the difference is between a table saw and a blender. My dad's 6000 lb pickup truck has a 350 horsepower gas engine. Yet the 40,000 lb tractor trailer he drives only has 300 horsepower... me'thinks you don't know much about horsepower - the vitamix can maintain a steady 2+ horsepower output and it only uses ~1400 watts (1390) - torque is another matter entirely...

[pmadams]

Interesting comparison. I have a Jonsered 59cc chainsaw that, although higher in displacement than the model below it (and lower in horsepower), has far greater torque than that saw, and even some saws in the 65cc range. Torque is the name of the game. But here we're talking about electric motors and not tractor engines or chainsaws. Different dynamic, even though torque still applies. Electric motors are gauged by amp draw, horsepower being somewhat secondary insofar as an engine rated at 2hp that draws x-amps will provide less torque than another 2hp motor that draws greater amperage. The horsepower rating is the same, but torque is defined by the amps. Obviously this is different than internal combustion engines where the torque capacities of a given engine aren't so readily appearant.

[MacGuffin]

With money so tight now, it's actually insulting to go to a neighborhood restaurant and pay a lot of money for food when in most cases, what I make at home actually tastes better and is WAY cheaper. For that matter, why should I pay a lot of money for a smoothie or other blended drink when again, I can make something that tastes better, with high-quality ingredients, for much less money? My Vita-Mix has paid for itself many times since I bought it and runs like a dream; I had my previous model for about 18 years and it still ran fine before I traded up. Their customer service bends over backwards to do right by their clientele, too.

[MikeB3542]

It's a $500 blender -- what am I missing?

I will say that it has one thing going for it, it is cheaper than a Kirby vacuum cleaner or a set of Regal Ware.

Like Kirby and Regal Ware, I am certain that it is awesome machine. I am sure some couldn't imagine life without it. I am sure I would save my money.

If you can't figure out why their marketing tactics might bother you, I have some ShamWows to sell you!

[onocoffee]

Vanity-

Look for the blender marked "VitaPrep." It has an adjustable blade speed controller on the front so you can start off slow and go to full-speed. Much more versatile than the standard VitaMix.

[MacGuffin]

Sorry, but the controls on the Vita-Prep and Vita-Mix are the same; starting off slow and increasing the speed is SOP for "Vita-blending." I posted the differences on another board; the Vita-Prep is for restaurant use and has a much shorter warranty. You can always call their toll-free number and ask to speak to someone in the commercial division to confirm what I've written.
As for the machine itself, go for it. You can use it as a normal blender without overkill (it's incredibly powerful) but it does so much more. One thing I like to make is cashew gravy. I add the ingredients to the Vita-Mix (I heat the water first for speed) and rather than blending and then cooking on the range, I just blend it in the Vita-Mix until it's done--it literally COOKS it with no fear whatsoever of scorching or lumps. It's amazing and I understand the 5200 is even better than my 5000.

[onocoffee]

As I work in the professional field, I'm used to working with Vita-Prep blenders and those labeled VitaMix have been timed blenders for drink work. You can always ask their commercial division to confirm what I've written.

As to the original question, the VitaPrep is certainly a large blender - and typically too tall to fit under standard cabinetry (although I think the smooth sided beakers might fit). I've used the gamut of blenders from Hamilton-Beach to Waring Commercial to Blendtec and VitaPrep - when you're talking about the last three they're relatively the same but I've come to prefer the VitaPrep better.

I keep my home unit on the counter with the blender beaker off to the side.

[MacGuffin]

They're all "Vita-Mix," which is the name of the manufacturer, plus the home-use blender is referred to as "the Vita-Mix," followed by an adjective (depending on the extras) and a model number, the most recent of which is the 5200 (I have the 5000). It's to that blender that everyone on the board is referring, as opposed to the Vita-Prep, which functions identically and has the same controls. They're built to take more punishment, have a MUCH shorter warranty, and one of them has a 3+ HP motor which allows for a larger fan so that it runs cooler.

[breadfan]

I got a Vita-Mix for a juice bar I owned in '97. Since the bar closed I have used it daily and went so far as getting the dry goods container and make my own flour. It is by far the best blender out there.

[hancosa]

I have a Vita-Mix 5000 and I absolutely love it. I have made soups and various other things in it. It makes smoothies really great and super fast. My husband and I are on a diet and we drink a lot of protein shakes. We can blend up ice and all in less than 30 seconds it is so easy and we use it probably at least 6 times a day. I am going to make my own peanut butter as soon as I get the nuts, I can't wait. I say it is the best purchase I have ever made for my kitchen, even better than a microwave!!

[Bramble]

We have had the Vita-Mix Super 5000 for 2+ years, and use it at least twice daily. We got the 32oz compact container, which is ample for us. Love it- much more powerful than our old blenders.

[yayadave]

For the OP's information, that 32oz. container allows the whole unit to fit under the cabinets if you want to leave it on the counter all the time. The "standard" 64oz container is to high.

I don't know what "The marketing techniques of Vitamix" are that bothered renov8r. You can check out their offerings and/or purchase on their web site, the same as anyone else. Or you can call and talk to someone.

[HealthGuy]

I agree, Bramble -- I ordered the Vita Mix 5200 blender from: http://www.3hpblenderreviews.com/vita... some say the Vitamix 5200 blenders aren't worth the money, but if you're using it one or more times each and every day I think it's totally worth the investment. I mean, if you burn through 3-4 cheat ones, it's gonna be about a wash anyway ;-)

[scubadoo97]

This is what I've said as well. I know for a fact that I have burned through at least 4 blenders over the last 20 yrs or so. Paid more than the list price for the 5200 in those crappy blenders. These high powered blenders are certainly worth the money when you look at what they can do and how long they will last.

[HealthGuy]

right on. couldn't agree more. although my fam and friends still think i'm crazy. they're just not into the whole blending thing like me -- it's kinda like a lifestyle choice i guess ;-)

[renov8r]

The super blenders are very capable machines. I routinely use my BlendTec to make frozen drinks that are as smooth as anything from a commercial outlet. The marketing techniques of Vitamix turned me off. I also considered the commercial units from Waring and Hamilton Beach, but I prefered the size of the BlendTec, it is among the "least tall".

[macjonesnz]

We got ours from Amazon (http://astore.amazon.com/vtmx-20/), looked hard at the Blendtech but they just seem to be more complex with all the buttons and stuff, I'm more a kind of on/off gimme a big switch kind a guy. Lots of buttons = lots of things to go wrong in my experience.

[sprucehen]

I'm curious -- what in particular was it about the Vitamix marketing that you found off-putting?