Product review (5 stars): This was by far one of the worst purchases we've ever made
Back in 2004, we bought a Whirlpool front loader. This was by far one of the worst purchases we've ever made.  The washer constantly smelled like mildew, so I had to buy something to wash my washer. Crazy! There was no way to control the water levels nor to really add something unless you wanted to go through the entire cycle again. The matching dryer failed to dry after a year and it was going to cost over $300 to fix it. The technician suggested we just put it on 'timed' dry. Clothes never dried in less than 75 minutes. Well, my point is that these fancy high-tech machines are just a joke. Washing clothes shouldn't be high tech!

I went to a couple of the big box stores and talked to sales people. I did a lot of online research. Consumer Report, Lowes, Sears, Home Depot, Amazon, CNet, LG, etc. After reading the reviews and product description, I was sure this is what I was looking for but I wanted to see it for myself. These machines are not found in big box stores, but I found it at a locally owned appliance store. Let me tell you why I bought this machine and why I love it.

1. Bought locally
2. Made in U.S.A
3. No plastic gears (metal)
4. 3 year-warranty verses 1 year on all others
5. Hoses were included (saved $40)
6. I can control my water levels
7. I can add items throughout the cycle
8. Clothes look AND smell clean
9. Clothes come out and they aren't twisted. My front-loader without the agitator just mangled the clothes.
10. Simple to operate

Con:
1. It ain't pretty....but don't judge a book by its cover!

I believe these companies like Samsung, LG, etc just wanted to make this a high-tech thing to raise the price. Don't do it!