I received this two weeks ago.  It is a beautiful red for the base.  The manufacture is solid and durable.  Crushes ice fairly well, blends items that are moist; struggles a little with smoothies, I believe because the blade is a bit too small and blunt, and the motor speed a little slower than needed to pull the liquid into a good vortex.  The cord is also very short, so will need a place on the counter right next to an outlet.  It is fine as a basic, solid blender.