I purchased my Immersion Blender right before the holidays and I absolutely LOVE it!  I have used it for making zucchini soup right on my cooktop and for making smoothies right in my 32oz wide mouth jar.  It is so easy to use and clean up afterward.  I do have an Ascent 3500 but the Immersion Blender is just so easy and quick when in a hurry.  Would definitely recommend this product!