I fell in love with the idea of having a high-powered blender when I was at Costco about 3 years ago. My husband and son were in such awe at the demonstration table, they came running across the store to come find me! I sat there for the entire demonstration and sampled the smoothies and soups. I couldn't believe what it could do. What I didn't like was the cost. I never got one of the blenders that day. About 6 months later I started looking online at reviews and came across the omni blender. I loved the videos and tutuorials they had comparing blenders and shearing info. I called to talke with a customer service person and they were extremely helpful! Needless to say, I bought one and have had it for 2 1/2 years and I love it. I use it on a daily basis. My family is always borrowing my blender! I would highly reccomend the Omni Blender. It works as well, if not better than the competion.