For years I had "limped along" with a blender that had the cushioning rubber ring separate from the housing that contained the blade. I had ruined 3 of these rings because if they were not set just right on the rim, the blender would malfunction and the ring would snap apart.  After a while, the rings were getting impossible to purchase as these models were obsolete. This GE blender has it all. It is very attractive, the base is slim and holds firmly to the countertop with its suction feet. It has all the power I need from a blender and I love the addition of the 2 blender cups which I use frequently for smaller jobs such as making individual smoothies and pureeing. A great price for a great blender! Thank you, GE!