KitchenAid Classic Plus Stand Mixer Review

I inherited my Kitchen Aid stand mixer from my Grandmother back in 2001.  I have heard, but not experienced personally that the quality of the 'consumer grade' Kitchen Aid mixers have deteriorated since.  (Not the professional models.) 

I love this mixer!  It has the 'crank' on the side to raise and lower the work-bowl.  The paddle doesn't get hung up in heavy mixes.  The whip beats egg whites to meringue perfection, and the bread dough hook really works wonders on a butter rich dough! 

It is heavy, I suggest finding a home for it where all you have to do is pull it out to use it.  The nice thing is that with the paddle turning rather than the bowl turning you don't have to leave quite as much space as with a standard mixer. 

It is expensive, but then it's a 'you get what you pay for' thing.  I've made very butter rich brioche (80%+) and have been able to crank the speed up to beat in the butter without any real overheating.  With back problems it becomes a lifesaver when making homemade breads.

Your mileage may vary of course, but I really like it.  It makes a great gift for anyone who does much cooking/baking.