When my Kitchen Aid blender developed a leak, and the cost of replacing the pitcher was nearly the price of a new blender, I decided to bite the bullet, and upgrade to my Vitamix. Holy cow, what a difference! This piece of machinery is a beast. Built solid as a rock, and power and speed enough to go through anything. My smoothies are coming out so smooth and perfect. I love it. And easy to clean to boot. I regret not making the leap decades ago.