I'm looking to make this purchase as a gift to my wife. I'm looking at roughly $440 for a new Turboblend VS or $600 for the Pro 500. My question is, what are the differences between the 2 besides the presets found on the Pro Series? From my research, both blenders are identical beyond the presets.

Is it worth the $160 premium for the presets? I've been getting mixed reviews whether or not the presets actually are worth it. Some say it is great for soups while others say it doesn't warm it up enough and you need to put it on the stove anyways. Any thoughts or advice would be appreciated!

On a side note, if you do recommend just getting the Turboblend VS, what are your thoughts on getting a reconditioned 5200 for $330? Clearly quite the savings but you lose 2 years of warranty and of course it's used.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 07/24/2012 04:24PM by Cares.

Cares,

I own both a Vitamix Pro 500 and a Blendtec HP3A with a 72 ounce wildside carafe. I paid 550 rather than 600 for the Pro 500. And at that price point, the automatic presets are worth it for me because it saves me time in the kitchen. That said, at $150 difference, it probably wouldn't be for me. I'd say go 5200 if the carafe is BPA free and it's a VS (7 year warranty rather than 5), go for the Turboblend VS.

On the reconditioned one, it's a value but not for me. I want a new machine, not a hand me down. but that's just me.

Paul

Oh so the local Costco has a Vitamix 6300 for $499. Looks basically identical to the Pro 500. 5200 for $399.

hmmm... some good value there. I'm assuming they are rebadging the Pro 500 to make way for the new 750/300 design carafes.

Paul

750 is way too expensive for me.

I just went to Costco to pick up the 6300 @ $540 after taxes. The lady doing the demo said it's basically a rebranded Pro 500. I think it's a good price. You think paying an additional $99 is worth it for the dry blade container?

I don't know. The blades on the dry blade container are different from the regular "wet" container. More like a grinding mill. Do you think you will be milling much flour? If not, pass.

Cares, you will enjoy the 3 presets. Wouldn't have been worth 140 but at your price, it's a steal. enjoy.

Paul



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 07/24/2012 10:06PM by pborst.