Bose® Lifestyle® 12 Series II Home Theater System (Black) (LS12IIBLK)
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $1,699.90
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Music Center With AM/FM Tuner and Single CD Player
• Direct/Reflecting Cube Speaker Arrays
• Acoustimass Speaker Module
• Integrated System Design
• Radio Frequency Remote Control

Reviews (7)

My poor, poor mother-in-law...
...actually bought one of these, and you should've seen the look on her face when she came over to my house and heard a REAL home theater system!I felt so sorry for her, I offered to come over to her house and check that all the connections were properly set up.

Well, I went and saw that yes all the speaker cables were correctly put in.In fact, she had gone out and used those gazillion dollar Monster cables, poor thing---she was always such a gullible, trusting woman.

But that was that: there simply was no way around the simple fact that for the outrageous amount she paid for this system, it produced barely mediocre sound.Just lots of treble and some exaggerated bass, which would be okay if you only watch bang-bang-wham-bam-kaboom action movies.However, she loves musicals and dramas---which only exposed the total scam that this overhyped and overpriced Bose stuff really is.

To their credit, Bose does however honor their money-back policy which UPS and FedEx probably appreciate greatly.

Move over ... the God's here
This is God himself.Make no distinctions about it.I have heard from many so called "Audiophiles"(basically a bunch of losers who think earth shattering bass and big balls is all there is to life) that Bose products are a waste,they are useless,they are over priced,bla,bla bla and the works.that is until i entered the Bose Store in Uptown,Bangalore,with my Pink Floyd DVD.Once it started playing "Shine on you crazy diamond", time stood still.Believe me.No one moved for another 6 mins,and that is the power of Bose,my friends. it is just different.it is just too good.it makes a clear distinction between hard bass,and depth bass.You get clarity and the depth of music is amazing.this is for the true connosiuers of music.audiophiles included.
i suggest life isnt complete without a Bose.when u die,eventually,u will carry the musical tones in ur immortal journey to another world.
ps: listen to Cafe Del Mar Vol.7 and Buddha Bar VOL 4 CD1,when it is raining and is cold outside.u will experience bliss.u will experience a high that will put crack and extacy to shame.this is life.this is why we all live.eventually help ur soul get liberated,by the Bose.Jesus ain't do it man.Bose do.

The perfect Home Theater system for Quality sound !
The BOSE LS 12 quality sound and "futuristic look" convinced me so much I had to buy it.This system is kind of expensive but it really worths it. First You dont know were the sound comes from because the speakers are so powerfull & small, not like other BIG speakers that don`t fit well and look messy in the house.
Highly recomended for anybody that like to her good sound in CD`s, CDR`s and movies. ... Read more

Asin: B00005UV2R
Sales Rank: 79038
Subjects:  1. Home Theater System (Theatre)   

Toshiba 53H71 53 HDTV-Ready Projection TV
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $2,499.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Bring stunning digital picture and sound from the theater to your home with the Toshiba 53H71 53" HDTV-compatible projection television.

Video Features
In addition to being HDTV-ready--fully able to appreciate incoming digital signals--the set is equipped with IDSC (Intelligent Digital Scan Conversion), which produces a high-end progressive scan picture with artificial intelligence that helps avoid artifacts and jagged lines caused by motion. IDSC also includes Advanced Video Noise Reduction, which virtually eliminates picture "snow." This set is also built with Toshiba's Powerfocus Optic System, a high-quality, four-element lens system designed to maximize both sharpness and brightness, as well as TouchFocus, for easy returns to sharp, accurate focus from corner to corner of the screen. Adding to your home theater experience, the set's Cinema Mode more accurately reproduces in DVDs the film's original 24-frame material (television signals reproduce images at a faster but often incompatible frame rate), eliminating the possibility of other errors or artifacts caused by simply doubling the signal, as with conventional televisions.

Audio Features
The set features SRS (Sound Retrieval System) Surround Sound. Touted by Toshiba as the leading 3D Sound technology worldwide, it essentially retrieves and restores to its original depth the sound data from any stereo recording, resulting in sound that is much closer to that of a live performance. The 65H81 also sports MTS Stereo with SAP (second language decoding) and SBS (Sub Bass System), which provides a noticeable boost to the unit's low frequency. Connections include: two Sets of ColorStream HD component video Inputs, two rear A/V inputs, two rear S-video inputs, two RF inputs, front panel A/V/S inputs, one center channel audio input, A/V output, and one variable audio output.

Other Features
Among other features, this set includes dual tuner picture-in-picture, so you can watch one program while monitoring another, a backlit universal remote, and two-level mute. ... Read more

Features

• Includes backlit universal remote control
• 53-inch projection set with HDTV compatibility (540p/1080i)
• Dual ColorStream HD component-video inputs for sharp image delivery
• 30-watt SRS 3-D surround sound and MTS stereo sound with dbx noise filter
• Theater-like 16:9 widescreen picture aspect ratio (1080i vertical compression and 810i letterbox)

Reviews (3)

Great Value
Upgraded from a 27" Wega to this beauty. This set is on clearance everywhere, which makes it great value.

1. Cable image quality depends on ur signal. Your results may vary.
2. DVD / Component input image quality is simply superb. Fantastic pictures.
3. Lots of manual tweaking options.
4. Sound quality is good.
5. Relatively small cabinet.
6. Widescreen not worth the premium it commands.

Hope this help.

LOVE IT
This is a great TV, it is not a big bulky monster, it has a slim cabinet, and a great picture. I am very happy with it.

superb tv
After doing quite a bit of research, I went for Toshiba on the basis of picture quality, reputation and the number of connections. After comparing this to other HDTVs, there is no comparison in picture quality. We are very pleased with it - superb picture, great sound and it really brings DVD movies to life. ... Read more

Asin: B00005NJ60
Subjects:  1. Projection    2. Big Screen    3. HDTV (HDTVs)    4. High Definition Television    5. enroute    6. Television (Televisions, TV, T.V., TVs)   

American Woods 1305T Windsor Collection Chaise Lounge with Sidetable
Average Customer Review:
Lawn & Patio
list price: $169.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Outdoor lounges are excellent for barbecues, afternoon lemonade breaks, and summer tanning sessions. Crafted from beautiful Western red cedar, this chaise longue is 62 inches long and features hidden steel-rod reinforcements to help it endure years of outdoor use. Sealed with a clear preservative to weather rain and snow, the cedar with mortise-and-tenon joinery will last for years to come. The seat is wide (24 inches across) and offers three angles: fully upright, reclined, and almost completely flat, encouraging hours of outdoor leisure. Assembly was relatively easy thanks to wing-nut tightening, but the cryptic directions slowed us down, and it took 45 minutes to get the chaise together. --Ariel Meadow Stallings ... Read more

Features

• 62" x 24" x 33 3/4"
• Made of western red cedar
• Treated with clear oil preservative
• Sturdy construction and plated hardware
• Made in USA

Reviews (46)

Highly Recomend
This Chaise lounge was easy to assemble.Very sturdy and I feel I got a great deal for the price.I have been pricing these types of chaises and am extremely happy with what I got

Liking Them
Looked around quite a bit and decided on these because of the price.Yes, they are a little short, but like I said, the price was right.I bought through Target and so far, they are fine.The frist one was a little challenging to put together, the second -- easy!They arrived almost overnight!!

Nice chaise lounge for the money...
Assembly takes a little time which is to be expected.But overall, very sturdy and well made. Side table which tucks underneath when not in use is a great extra.Love the look, and it was reasonably priced compared to simular lounges offered elsewhere.

As with most natural woods left outdoors, you'll have to spend the extra money and time oiling it on a regular basis if you want to preserve the color.Of course, getting into the tight spots with all of those slats will prove to be a challenge!

... Read more

Asin: B00005AWCZ
Subjects:  1. Cedar    2. Patio & Garden Furniture    3. Lounge Chairs    4. (Outdoor)    5. Outdoor Living    6. Patio Furniture    7. Wood    8. (Wooden)   

DeLonghi BCO110 Caffe Figaro Espresso, Cappuccino, and Coffee Bar
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $260.00 -- our price: $169.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Both a regular coffeemaker and espresso machine, this1,500-watt appliance has separate water tanks for simultaneouslybrewing drip coffee and espresso. The espresso machine side has abuilt-in frothing system with a milk tank for creating cappuccinos andlattés in their cups. Separate knobs select the strength of bothregular coffee and espresso. Making espresso follows tradition: tampcoffee into a filter basket inside a filter holder, twist the filterholder onto the machine, pour water into the machine's boiler, andpress a button. Depending on the amount of water added, up to four2-ounce cups then flow into an 8-ounce glass carafe.

Making regular coffee also follows tradition: insert a filter (apermanent Gold Tone filter is included) into the filter basket, spoonin coffee, add water to the coffeemaker's removable tank, and press abutton. Up to 10 5-ounce cups of coffee then flow into a 50-ounce glasscarafe on a warming plate. (For five or fewer cups, speed up thebrewing process for full flavor.) A digital clock/timer makes itpossible to program a select time for "wake-up coffee" up to 24 hoursin advance. The brewing process pauses if the carafe is removed for amidbrew pour. A water filter removes chlorine, and a cup-countingsystem blinks a reminder when the machine requires decalcification.Encased in both bright and matte-finish black plastic, the machinemeasures 16 inches wide, 13-1/2 inches high, and 9 inches deep andcarries a one-year warranty against defects. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Dual-purpose machine brews 10 5-ounce cups regular coffee, 4 cups espresso
• Separate water tanks coversimultaneous coffee and espresso brewing
• Built-in frothing system with milk tank for making cappuccino and caffe latte
• Programmable 24-hour clock/timer for "wake-up" coffee; brew-pause feature
• Measures 16 by 13-1/2 by 9 inches; 1-year warranty

Reviews (21)

lights on but no coffee brewing
Before you think I don't know what I am doing, I know how to reset the brew counter.I re-read the manual and I pushed both the prog and power buttons simultaneously for 2-5 seconds.This worked once before but this time its just not responding.The power light and 5-10 cup light come on. But the coffee just won't brew.No water passes through the system and the hot plate is cold.That's why I titled this "lights on but no coffee brewing"
I liked this figaro machine for all its features. But mine just quit today and I would hate for someone else to have this trouble.My machine is only 5 months old.Come on, it supposed to work for much longer than that.This DeLonghi model is not reliable.You're lucky if you get a good machine that lives past the warranty.Good luck, if you get this as a gift, I hope you have no problems.For 150 dollars or more, there has to be more reliable machines out there!Cheers!

Great.....for awhile
We got this coffee maker 2 years ago and loved it....great tasting coffee and loved the pull out water tank.We really loved the cappuccino side with the milk tank...I do not like to bother to froth milk in a seperate container and this was a great solution.

BUT....the clock doesnt keep good time...by HOURS....the clock evens goes on the fritz when I would grind the coffee plugged into the same outlet...had to go to another room (another circuit I suppose?).The frother started leaking at the top of the milk container...spraying steam and milk...have to put that little lid on and clean it all up.Now it started to go dead after brewing coffee...had to unplug and plug back in the next morning and it would work.Now it is completely dead.

Oh, and the carafe from the very beginning drips if you dont pour the coffee fairly slow.I expected more durability from $150...made in China I am sure.

Still not a perfect replacement choice out there....annoying.

Great machine... Unless you're a moron...
I love this machine.It makes great coffee and espresso.I can see that all the negative reviews are from morons who probably could barely operate a telephone... ... Read more

Asin: B000063CBU
Subjects:  1. Drip Coffee Machines    2. Coffee Makers    3. (Coffeemakers)    4. (De Longhi)    5. (De Longi)    6. (Delongi)   

KitchenAid KSM150PSOB Artisan Series 5-Quart Mixer, Onyx Black
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $289.99 -- our price: $249.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

KitchenAid's Artisan stand mixer is a substantial piece of equipment: 325 watts of mixing power make child's play of creaming butter, kneading dough, and whipping cream. The kid in you will appreciate how quick and easy it is to mix up a batch of cookie dough. This model comes with three attachments: a flat beater for making batter, meat loaf, and all textures in-between; a wire whip for egg whites, mayonnaise, and more air-infused creations; and a hook for mixing and kneading yeast doughs. All three are solidly constructed and easily secured to the beater shaft with a simple twist. This model also includes a pouring shield for guiding ingredients to their proper destination, and the bowl itself locks tight to the base. Standing about 15 inches high, jutting out a foot, and weighing more than a grown woman's bowling ball, this stand mixer isn't the sort of appliance you'll wipe down and put away. Better to find a square foot of free counter space for easy access; besides, this machine is as pretty as it is rugged--you'll want to show it off. --Betsy Danheim

From the Manufacturer

The Artisan mixer's strong 325-watt motor delivers the power to handle the heaviest mixtures, and mix large batches easily.

The 5-quart polished stainless steel bowl with ergonomic handle is big enough to handle large batches of heavy mixtures. Its ergonomically designed handle is contoured to fit the hand and makes lifting the bowl more comfortable.

Unique Mixing Action

The beater spins clockwise as the shaft spins counter clockwise; moving the beater to 67 different points around the bowl. This unique mixing action creates a thorough blend of ingredients and eliminates the need to rotate the bowl.

Multiple Speeds

10 speeds allow the user to select the right speed for the mixing job; from very high to very slow stir. It's easy to select the precise speed needed for a perfect mix.

Versatile Accessories

The flat beater, dough hook, and the professional wire whip add to the versatility of the mixer. The flat beater is the ideal accessory for mixing normal to heavy batters. From cake mixes to firm cookie dough, the flat beater mixes quickly and thoroughly.

The dough hook mixes and kneads yeast dough, saving both time and the effort of hand-kneading. The wire whip incorporates the maximum amount of air in whipped mixtures for fluffier whipped cream and angel food cakes.

All attachments are solidly constructed, and attach easily to the stand mixer.

Easy Clean Up

The pouring shield fits around the top of the bowl and prevents ingredient splash-out. The chute makes it convenient and easy to add ingredients.

The tilt-back mixer head allows for easy access to bowl and beaters. A lock lever holds the mixer head securely in place and the bowl fastens tightly to the base.

Optional Attachments

Optional attachments (sold separately) complete the package to make cooking a pleasure. From citrus juicer to sausage stuffer, KitchenAid stand mixers can handle just about any job in the kitchen.

... Read more

Features

• Measures 14 by 8-2/3 inches by 14 inches; 1-year warranty
• 325-watt mixer with 10 speeds; 5-quart stainless steel bowl
• Tilt-back head for easy access to mixture
• 2-piece pouring shield with large chute for adding ingredients
• Includes flat beater, dough hook, and wire whip

Reviews (172)

Buy one for your significant other!!!
I bought one as an X-mas gift for an ex-girlfriend that I have a rocky friendship with and now she cooks up good stuff for me all the time!It makes hanging out with her a lot more enjoyable, and she freaked out about the color and it gave her an excuse to deocrate her whole kitchen pink and white.If you gave one of these to your current ladyfriend I bet that you would reap the benefits multiple times a day for a very long time.

It was a very very high quality product and I will look to the KitchenAid brand first whenever I have to buy kitchenwares/appliances in the future.Great color selections, great quality, very good power.

Would highly recommend.

Great essential for the baker in your life....you!
I love the mixer's power, capacity and ease of use. It makes even garlic mashed potatoes heavenly. I selected a black model to match my Viking kitchens without realizing the color would need more frequent cleaning. If you use this mixer every day buy a cover or another color to save time.

Fantastic!
I got this mixer about a month ago. I've wanted one for years, but always talked myself out of it (too expensive, too big, etc.) After finding a great deal here on Amazon, I finally caved in and let me say, I'm glad I did. I love this mixer! I was worried I wouldn't use it very much, since I already have a very nice bread machine (a "Zo"). I find that I'm using it all the time though. It really is like having an extra pair of hands in the kitchen. Cookie dough is so much easier. I'm also making bread with it constantly. It's just so simple to throw the ingredients in the mixer and let it do all the kneading. I've been making fresh bread and bagels every week and it's been no hassle. It handles the dough very well and stays put. It's a big heavy machine. The only problem I was having with it was I was finding it very difficult to remove the bowl to clean it after I was done mixing something. My husband suggested rubbing some vaseline on the bottom edge and that has solved the problem completely. Now I can pop the bowl off with one hand. Anyway, if you've been wanting one of these and if you like to bake at all, do youself a favor and get one. You will be amazed at how much easier it will make your life. I only wish I'd gotten one years ago! ... Read more

Asin: B00005UP2L
Subjects:  1. (Kitchen Aid)    2. Small Appliances    3. Electrics    4. Stand Mixers    5. (Standmixers)   

American Woods 1213 Windsor Collection Chair, Set of 2
Average Customer Review:
Lawn & Patio
list price: $199.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Outdoor chairs are wonderful to have for barbecues, afternoon lemonade breaks, and summer lunches for the kids. Crafted from beautiful western red cedar, these two chairs feature hidden steel-rod reinforcements to help it endure years of outdoor use. Sealed with a clear preserve to weather rain and snow, the cedar with mortise-and-tenon joinery will last for years to come. Each seat is wide (26 inches across) and comfortable, encouraging hours of outdoor leisure. Assembly was surprisingly easy thanks to wing-nut tightening--it only took about 15 minutes. --Ariel Meadow Stallings ... Read more

Features

• 26" x 25" x 37 1/2"
• Made of western red cedar
• Treated with clear oil preservative
• Sturdy construction and plated hardware
• Made in USA

Reviews (11)

You get less than what you pay for!
These chairs seemed to be a good price, and with free shipping we decided to take a chance.Boy, are we dissapointed.We've gotten splinters in our hands, butts and the backs of our legs, the chairs have literally split on the legs and backrests, and the matching table has also led to some casualties!I want my money back!!!DON"T buy these chairs!!Better to sit on a (safe) folding chair!!

Decent Product, Great Price
COnsidering the price of these chairs (130 for 2) plus free shipping, they can't be beat with a stick.I mean top value for dollar.Take price out of the equation and they're still pretty darn good.No, they're not teak or other top end wood, but they are a nice cedar and have a pleasing deisgn.Quality was pretty good, in fact 95% on these chairs (less on the potters table I also bought).The only problem was that one drill hole didn't go all the way thru and thus when opened up by a scrediver, it ripped/splinted the wood a bit.No biggie and may even add character.Anyway, the hardware is average (brass screws and wahsers), and the wood is "combined" (not from one piece), but still the product is above average withotu price and outstanding with price.

Poor workmenship
On both chair the holes for screws did not align at all on the top back of chair, and new holes had to be drilled. ... Read more

Asin: B00005AWCY
Subjects:  1. Cedar    2. Gift Sets    3. Patio & Garden Furniture    4. Dining Chairs    5. (Outdoor)    6. Wood    7. (Wooden)   

Consisting of four smart-looking, high-quality bar tools, thisset places contemporary European style in the center of the cocktailhour. The set contains all the tools needed to createprofessional-quality cocktails: a shaker base, a measuring glass, astrainer, and a jigger. Made of 18/10 stainless steel, the three metalpieces have a rich satin finish, with the jigger's flared rim and thestrainer's top polished to a mirror-finish for brilliant contrastnotes. The jigger holds 2 ounces; the shaker base stands 6-1/2 incheshigh; the measuring glass stands 5-3/4 inches high, with clearcalibrations in ounces and centiliters; and the strainer has alarge-diameter coil that sets deeply into the shaker base forspill-free pouring while holding back ice. These pieces are heavy anddurable as well as beautiful and go safely into the dishwasher.--Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher-safe
• Set consists of cocktail shaker base, measuring glass, strainer, 2-ounce jigger
• Contemporary European style
• Made of 18/10 stainless steel with satin-finish
• Measuring glass clearly calibrated in ounces, centiliters

Asin: B00005O65E
Subjects:  1. Bar Sets    2. Barware    3. (Bar Ware)    4. Bartending    5. Cocktail Shakers   

Hoffritz Stainless-Steel Ice Bucket with Lid
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $54.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

This ice bucket will accent any bar or tabletop. Its high-quality steel (18/8) assures you of limited rusting and lasting durability. It's just the right size for casual entertaining or small dinner parties, and the tight lid means your ice won't melt quite so quickly. Dishwasher-safe and beautifully crafted, this set adds convenience and elegance to the serving of drinks. --Madeleine Miller ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime limited warranty
• Sturdy handles
• Durable 18/8 stainless-steel construction
• 7-1/2 inches tall, 7-3/4 inches wide
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (2)

A few more details
For those wanting more details, the bucket is indeed s/s, but a removable plastic liner is included.The lid is smoke-gray acrylic with a s/s knob, and it fits fairly snugly into the top of the bucket.

Very useful!
Not everyone has an ice bucket and I always want one but never would buy myself one, this is one that I would consider.Its classy and stainless steel.Easy to clean! ... Read more

Asin: B00004RHMV
Subjects:  1. Ice    2. Barware    3. (Bar Ware)    4. Bartending   

These practical ice tongs feature concave grasping ends with embossed pyramid-shaped depressions designed to keep a firm hold on a slippery cube any way you grab it. Eight-inches long and made of a single piece of stainless steel bent into a springy shape, these tongs have no hinges or mechanical parts to rust or wear out. An essential tool for the civilized cocktail hour, ice tongs are elegant, sanitary, and in all respects vastly superior to any alternative. --Victoria Jenkins ... Read more

Features

• Attractive enough for any occasion
• Indispensable party time accouterment
• Concave grasping ends for a firm hold on ice
• Durable, one-piece stainless-steel construction
• 8 inches long

Asin: B00004RHRX
Subjects:  1. Ice    2. Barware    3. (Bar Ware)    4. Bartending   

KitchenAid KFP670 Professional Food Processor, Onyx Black
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $279.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

This sleek appliance demonstrates why KitchenAid food processors enjoyan unsurpassed reputation. It's big: the main bowl holds 11 cups. It's powerful:a 670-watt motor guided by an electronic sensor provides smooth, consistentspeed. It's remarkably easy to use: precisely fitted parts assemble anddisassemble quickly, the flick of a fingertip controls the on/off and pulseswitches, and a two-piece food pusher makes it easy to process herbs and othersmall items. It's flexible: a 9-cup chef's bowl nearly doubles the processor'scapacity while permitting a second ingredient to be processed without cleaningthe main bowl, and a 3-cup minibowl with its own blade fits inside the big bowlfor smaller jobs.

Operating the processor is a thrill--like driving a luxury car. It weighs 10-1/2 pounds and measures 14-1/2 inches high, 8-3/4 inches wide, and 10-1/2 inches deep. There are no seams to trap food, making cleanup a simple matter of wiping the base and placing all the parts in the dishwasher.

Included with this model is a citrus press for quickly extracting juice; a whipfor egg whites and cream; a dough blade; a thin (2 millimeters), reversible discfor slicing and shredding; and medium (4 millimeters) shredding and slicingdiscs. All store in a transparent plastic case (10-1/2 by 7-1/2 by 7 inches).The instruction booklet is exceptionally easy to follow and includes dozens ofrecipes. Should the processor fail during its first year, KitchenAid's totalreplacement warranty guarantees delivery of another machine. Other than thatunlikely eventuality, no cook would part with this processor. --FredBrack ... Read more

Features

• Dough blade, egg whip, slicing/shredding discs, with storage case
• Rated number one in its class by a leading consumer magazine
• Powerful 670-watt motor handles all processing tasks
• Three bowls: 11-cup, 9-cup, and 3-cup mini bowl with its own blade
• Citrus press for juice; two-piece food pusher for small items

Reviews (56)

Love it love it love it
We haveno complaints about this processor. I have used probably all the attachments except the egg whip- no, wait, we used that too! It all works great! No problems since everything works as promised. Good to see some things still are made mostly like they used to be.

Difficult cleanup, components not hardy enough
I bought this KitchenAid food processor about three or four years ago after doing extensive research between this and Cuisinart.It functions as promised and I've used it to grate cheese and mix/puree various items.It's a nice-looking and weighty appliance.I've had no problems with the blades gouging plastic as other reviewers have said, and there's been no problem with the motor dragging.

However, I've started making homemade pet food and it seems that the 11-cup bowl is not nearly large enough.Furthermore, the bowl and lid are fragile:I've already had to buy a replacement bowl because one of the safety teeth in the bottom broke off, rendering the machine inoperable.Additionally, the lid has a crack in it; although it still functions, it's only a matter of time before that needs replacing too (and the replacement lid is sold separately from the bowl).You'd think I'm an ogre who treats my belongings harshly, but that's not the case.

Another thing that sorely irks me is that there are many crevices in the lid where ingredients get jammed, and it does not clean up easily.From what I can gather by looking at product photos, they've upgraded the design of the lid (to include a much-needed larger chute), so I don't know if this is still a problem.

Tip:If you're going to grate cheese, stick the cheese in the freezer first to harden it.Soft cheese will definitely be gummed up in the shredder blade and won't make for an easy clean-up.

Fortunately for me, I recently got a good deal on a Cuisinart 14-cup food processor.Here's to hoping it will be more durable and easier to clean than my KitchenAid.

Making the switch from Cuisinart to KichenAid
When I wrecked by decade-old Cuisinart, I was all set to buy a newer model Cusinart to replace it. That is until I looked at various consumer reviews and decided to switch to KitchenAid (I have the KitchenAid large mixer, which has been reliable for many years). I'm thrilled with this model KitchenAid food processor and glad I made the switch. I ordered the black model to match all of my other appliances. The old Cuisinart looks like a toy compared to this model KitchenAid (to be fair, a comparable new Cusinart might be just as large and powerful.) The juicer is a plus; I'll be putting away two other electric juicers. The KitchenAid is fast, heavy (an asset) and quiet. Great new toy. I appreciated all the other comments, which helped me make my decision. Best yet...I ordered it from Amazon (free shipping plus a rebate) and it was delivered in LESS than two days! Could not believe it! Wonderful service. Thank you!! ... Read more

Asin: B00005LA9E
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Full-Size Food Processors    4. (Foodprocessors)    5. (Kitchen Aid)   

Debbie Travis' Painted House : More than 35 Quick and Easy Finishes for Walls, Floors, and Furniture
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (09 July, 2002)
list price: $19.95 -- our price: $13.57
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Believing that wonderful paint effects need not entail the many complications of oil-based materials, acclaimed painted-finishes expert Debbie Travis has developed easy step-by-step methods for terrific-looking treatments, all achieved with water-based supplies. With large, beautiful photos, clear instructions, and well-chosen colors, she demonstrates 35 different finishes for walls and floors (textured, patterned, and stone types) and for furniture, trim, and accessories (antique and specialty, metallic, and stenciling methods), plus four "master techniques" (colorwashing, ragging, sponging, and dragging). Travis also gives careful attention to getting started, which she believes intimidates people even more than learning the actual techniques. She explains how to find inspiration, choose a style appropriate to your own tastes, and select colors. Even the most timid of amateur decorators should be able to handle most of the techniques presented in Debbie Travis's Painted House. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Ugly rooms and ugly color
I find the rooms in this book to be so overdone that it is painful!Tacky, dated interiors and poor color choices.Just plain messy and often ugly!

Don't waste your money on this dated book!

I expected more...
I was looking for a design idea for my house and I got a quick overview of detailed techniques. I didn't get a good idea of all of the techniques to use on a floor, what I'd need for vinyl..It is alright to look through.

Where to put the lamp? Paint it on the wall...
OK to be fair this book teaches different painting techniques successfully. But throughout the examples it seems like they HAVE to paint everything possible. Rather than put a real plant in a room, they paint one onto a wall. Rather than install a tile floor or brick wall, they paint fake ones in. It all just has sort of a comical feel when finished. If you flip through a Pottery Barn catalog and consider that tasteful, then these designs leave alot to be desired. Buy this book for technique, but consider others for inspiration. ... Read more

Isbn: 0609808168
Subjects:  1. Amateurs' manuals    2. Decorating - General    3. Do-It-Yourself    4. Furniture painting    5. Home Improvement / Construction    6. House & Home    7. House painting    8. Interior decoration    9. House & Home / Decorating   

Powermatic 1660760K Model 66 3 HP Table Saw
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $2,580.00 -- our price: $2,299.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Known as one of the few quality saws still made in America,what really sets the Powermatic 66 apart from the competition is about200 pounds of solid vibration-reducing cast iron. The weight of thismachine makes it the smoothest-running tool in its class. A 40-pound,single-piece, cast-iron trunnion reduces vibration from the3-horsepower motor. Combine this with the 28-by-38-inch cast-irontabletop and you have one beefy machine weighing in at just under 600pounds. The unique belt-drive system distributes torque moreefficiently with less wasted energy going to heat. Staying cool means alonger motor life and less wasted electricity. The Powermatic 66 has aconvenient, hinged front access door and a 4-inch dust collection portfor easy connection to standard dust collectors. The 50-inch Accu-Fencehas an interior spring that applies constant pressure when not lockeddown, which takes the slop out of fence movement, improving accuracyand the speed of fence adjustments. It also has replaceable sides witheasy-access screws. Users can adjust the sides so close to the tabletopthat laminates will not slip underneath. The Powermatic 66 is theclassic choice for professional cabinetry and furniture shops, as wellas for hobbyists who spend more time in the shop than on the couch.--Nancy Gleason ... Read more

Features

• Includes $292 worth of free options: dado insert, motor cover, extension table, and legs
• Heavy cast-iron trunnion reduce vibration and ensure smoother cuts
• High-efficiency 3VX drive-belt system delivers torque more efficiently and generates less heat
• Left-tilting blade prevents binding during bevel cutting, reducing the risk of kickback
• Award-winning Accu-Fence system creates an easy-gliding, precision fence

Reviews (19)

AND THE MOTOR WENT SOUTH
Three years ago I sold my Unisaw, which I had had for 25 years, and bought the PM 66. I thought it was time to own the saw that many consider to be the benchmark standard of the industry.

Almost from the beginning, the motor would occasionally have a strange sound upon starting. The Tech people claimed that dust had migrated into the (sealed) magnetic switch, and I should just blow it out. I don't use the saw everyday, but this would happen every few months, and I would drag my air hose out once again.

Well, one day last week the motor screamed, heated up and died.

Took the motor to an authorized service center for Baldor. They said motor was completely shot, and was defective from the getgo.Said a new motor would be less expensive than fixing this one.

Cost of new motor = $412.

Wrote and called Powermatic.They were sypathetic ("yeah, that happens sometimes"), but said they could not help because the warranty period had expired.

Went up the chain of command, and finally found a guy that said he would give me a new motor for $200. Tired of the battle, and frustrated, gave him my credit card number.

MORAL OF THIS STORY:If you have a problem, don't procrastinate, and don't take no for an answer.That motor was defective out of the box. I knew it, and so did the people at Powermatic. I should have pursued the issue more zealously at the first sign of a problem.And even now, I know I should not have accepted their settlement offer ($200 for a new motor) so meekly.

1/4-20 screws don't cut the mustard!!!
The eagle has landed!!! I finally added the PM66 to my arsenal of tools and it's a beautiful site. I haven't finished the assembly as of yet but here's what I've found so far:
1) The extension tables will not sit flush from front to back. The center area seems to be bowed ever so slightly on both sides.
2) The 1/4-20 screws that connect the front guide rail to the saw are crap. I've already broke two of them. I DID NOT OVERTIGHTEN THEM. It just seems that there will be so much stress and strain on this front rail that a larger, coarser thread should be used. I have purchased stainless steel screws to replace the 3 cent garbage shipped with this $2200 saw. Come on PM, for this kind of money you can't use a better screw???
3) I was told that the saw DID NOT come with a dado insert and I purchased one when I picked up my saw. The insert DOES come with the saw.

I can only hope that the reat of the setup goes smoother than first two steps. I spent the additional money for quality which I can only hope is what I get.

Professional Engineer & Woodworking Hobbyist
First let me start by saying that I am a product engineer for one of the largest high quality furniture manufactures in the world. Believe me when I say I know what kind of quality equipment it takes to get the job done right. I did a lot of researching before making my decision.

After I purchased my model 66 in March of '04 I had no problems with the assembly. Everything fit just like the instructions said. I did have to make an adjustment to the top to get the miter slots parallel to the blade. I encourage everyone to check this from the start. This makes it a much easier task to square the fence or any other sled that you make.

After seeing the mobile base at a local woodworking show, I chose not to purchase one. It appeared to be too weak and too expensive at $199 to hold a 600 pound saw. I went to a local steel distributor and purchased the materials I needed to build my own. I also purchased some swivel casters from McMaster Carr. With all that in mind, including having someone to help me fabricate my own mobile base, I have less than $100 in it. I believe my base is far better than anything you can purchase - not to mention cheaper.

In the 6 months since I purchased my 66, I have had nothing but success. I had even read one review where someone had taken a penny and placed in on the top on its edge, turned the saw on and off without the penny falling over. I had to try this myself - it's like magic. Absolutely the smoothest running saw I have used. I was ripping 8/4 lumber with very little effort. By far the smoothest gluing edges I have seen yet. I find it hard to believe that some people had a poor review with their 66. I have heard since purchasing my model 66 that a cheaper Taiwan built saw is available. Could be that someone got one of those. I recommend staying with a USA made saw - this could be the difference. Although the Delta and Jet are a little cheaper, the powermatic is well worth the extra spending. Let face it, you are going to spend $1500 to $1800 anyway - what's another $300 to $600. There's an old saying; you get what you pay for. Being a professional furniture engineer and a woodworking hobbyist, the powermatic model 66 is simply the best saw and investment you will ever make.
... Read more

Asin: B00005OQM4
Subjects:  1. Saws    2. Table Saws    3. Stationary Table Saws    4. (Tablesaws)