We bought this ice cream maker because ice cream from the grocery store is just not very good anymore.  This little unit far surpassed our expectations!  We've had it for nearly a year, and have used it approximately 15 times.  The ice cream always turns out flavorful and creamy -- much better than anything you can buy in the store.  We've tried several of the recipes in the included book, and they've all been great.  It's very easy to use, so making delicious homemade ice cream is simple.  We were so happy with ours that we got one for my father-in-law as a gift.  He loves it, too!