Kitchen Mixer Help

I am so disappointed.

This is a terrible way to start a review, especially of a product I was so excited to purchase. I believe KitchenAid has a hard-earned reputation for quality, that they are squandering today due to the use of a poor quality component in their mixers.

Product

DSM5

Key Features
Mixer Type
Stand
Speed Settings
6 Speeds

Other Features
Bowl Size
5 quart (4.7 liter)

Dimensions
Height
11.7 in.
Width
15.75 in.
Depth
9 in.

Miscellaneous
22904211

Details

The DeLonghi DSM-5 stand mixer (formerly the Kenwood Chef Classic) sets the standard for home mixers. Since acquiring Kenwood in 2001, DeLonghi has updated the name and added valuable new features to this gourmet stand mixer, while maintaining the legendary power and quality that made the Kenwood mixer so famous.

The price : $340.00

My wife and I decided we wanted to start making focaccia, bread, and pizza on a regular basis. Although we’re both in our mid 30s we didn’t enjoy the time and effort it took to knead the dough. The thinking was: if it takes too long and it tires us out, we won’t do it very often.

The search for a stand mixer began. I wanted a mixer that worked well for dough. That was the main purpose for us. We considered the Kitchen-Aid, but three things bothered us. One, the reports on Epinions about burnt motors by those who attempted to work large amounts of dough. Two, the unbelievably short warranty of one year. Three, the low power of 300 watts (325 and 525 are also available).

I just bought a DeLonghi 5-Quart mixer (705 watts), and made a triple batch of heavy cookie dough. This is quite a departure from my Mixmaster.

Pros: IMPRESSIVE. After all that mixing; I cleaned up in about 12 minutes! No “flour cloud” or splashy drops everywhere-AMAZING. Simple directions, logical; easy to read-they remove intimidation (705 watts compared to 325 of the Mixmaster). Even offers helpful food tips! PERFECT weight, balance, design, guides on mixer are clear. “K” beater and dough hook are substantial-non-stick finish, quite slippery. Whisk praiseworthy. Has overload protection device. Chose over Kitchen Aid (reluctantly) after checking out comments, history of company, VALUE.

Cons: Manufacturer should be ASHAMED of the fragile splash guard! Should offer a heavier-duty one, even after-market. Mixer is LOUD from “Minimal” setting to mid-level (but not much louder at highest setting). Weird using splash guard, must put in about 1/2 (dry) cup at a time, and not needing to constantly scrape bowl. Tilt feature more complicated than Mixmaster. No small bowl but probably this “habit” will disappear. Most problems I had were in comparing what I am USED TO with what I HAVE. Needed MORE POWER.

COOKIES ARE GORGEOUS, DELICIOUS.

The Delonghi DSM7 is a wonderful looking mixer. But that is about it. Despite the advantages of using the blender and other attachments, after only a few months of light duty usage- the planetary motion on the mixer failed.

When I was considering this mixer, I was also considering KitchenAid mixers. The Delognhi DSM7 won out because as countertop stand mixers go- it had the largest mixing bowl, highest wattage on the motor, and a blender attachement. It also had the option of many other attachments such as a fruit & veggie juicer, food processor, meat grinder, etc.

Key Features
Mixer Type
Stand
Speed Settings
6 Speeds

Other Features
Power Output
700 Watts
Bowl Size
5 quart (4.7 liter)

Warranty

10 Years

Dimensions
Height
11.75 in.
Width
14 in.
Depth
9.25 in.

Miscellaneous
20303342

Details

The new DeLonghi DSM-700 stand mixer (formerly the Kenwood "Chef Classic") sets the standard for home mixers.Since acquiring Kenwood in 2001, DeLonghi has updated the name and added valuable new features to this gourmet stand mixer, while maintaining the legendary power and quality that made the Kenwood mixer so famous.It features a powerful 700 watt motor, continuously variable speed control with planetary action mixing, and beautiful and durable all metal casing and gears.

I was shopping for a Kitchenaid Professional when I read some reviews on Epinions and decided that since I make alot of cookies I wanted something with the power to do it…

Especially the bread makers panning the Kitchenaid made me decide on the Kenwood/Delonghi and since I make 1000s of cookies at a time, well the DSM7 with the 7 qt bowl seemed ideal…

Well after the first 2000 cookies 1 day after I got it, I can say that I’m impressed…