Alas, the inevitable occurred. The epoxy failed, and I had to consign the old Farberware to the landfill. (Actually, the garage, which is my appliance and electronics graveyard.) I started my search anew, but had a hard time finding a blender that would also play well with the other black-and-stainless gadgets on my pantry shelf. I ordered one anonymous monstrosity because of its looks and purported power, then immediately returned it when it left large shards of ice in my margarita (after having blown out my eardrums). (Note so self: no more unrated Amazon products.)
I needed a blender. So I looked again and landed on this one, even though I was leery of the plastic pitcher. Y'all, this thing is giant! I'm usually making drinks or recipes for one. However, I performed the litmus test (hello, margarita), and even with one serving, this thing performed admirably. Plus, it came with a recipe book and a little brush thingie for the disgusting things the dishwasher might miss.
I won't lie; it's loud. I wonder if that's because of the plastic (vs. glass) pitcher. But my dog and I can hide while it's working, because you pre-set it and go. It does all the speed-shifting magic for you, once you choose the setting.
It remains to be seen how it does with anything other than margaritas or post-workout smoothies, but honestly, that's all I've ever used a blender for anyway. This one has a dough hook though...and I'm a big sourdough snob...who knows? Hard to imagine consigning my whole rye sourdough starter to this chunk of plastic, but maybe I'll try something more pedestrian.
Meanwhile, can you tell I'm enjoying my margarita while I write this review?