Years ago I began my search for the best blender/pulverizer/mixer on the market to make green smoothies among other uses like grinding flax for example.  After many hours and weeks of searching I decided on an entry level Blendetc.  After over 13 years, 3000 smoothies, and grinding a bunch of other stuff, I decided to do my ears a favor and step up to the Pro 800.  I can honestly say that when it comes to the brand name there is nothing that compares to the Blendtec, and when it comes to the Blendtec nothing compares to the Pro 800.  I will add that the Designer 725 also has the 3.8hp and if you want to save a couple hundred but noise is the issue the Designer 725 is a bit quieter then models with the 3.0 hp motor, even without the cover.  That being said I would not have paid $1,100 but for $800 this machine is worth every penny and then some.