I bought this as a gift for a relative having always wanted one myself and thought that this would be a perfect opportunity to 'try before you buy' . I have since spent many a happy hour in the kitchen with the recipient and her kitchenaid and my belief in this product as a top of the line 'food mixer ' has been confirmed beyond doubt. Not only is the kitchenaid a beautifully made, very attractive and a sturdy piece of equipment, it does of course do so much more than mix food. So far, I have only used it for mixing batters, dough and making pastry which I hasten to add has turned out perfectly every time. I am of course in the process of purchasing the same product for myself and will have no hesitation in acquiring the various attachments in order to maximise its many capabilities. Furthermore, because the mixer is stand alone (and one may think way too heavy given it's title of food mixer) the very fact that it is heavy means that you can be confident that when you walk away from it whilst it is in use, you can rest assured that it is not likely to have moved or that any 'splillage' will have occurred. It's many speeds allow precision in food preparation and it's deep stainless steel bowl (and bowl cover) allow for clean, dust free (from flour, icing sugar etc) working making for a much speedier and cleaner baking experience. All in all, whilst it appears expensive for a food mixer' it is as I have suggested, so much more and worth every penny!! I can't wait til mine arrives!!
