This machine would get 4 or 5 stars if it didn't break within a week or two of use.
I purchased the Artisan for Christmas 2005. It failed (gears froze) a week after receiving it. The replacement unit failed on it's second use. I am now awaiting my third replacement.
Kitchenaid sends a replacement in 5 days and picks up the failed unit. That is good customer service. However, each unit has failed within short time, if the third one fails, I will request my money back and purchase a different brand.
Update March 2008: The third mixer was the charm. It's been working perfectly. Sorry to be so late getting back on this.
Update Sept 2009: The third mixer is starting to act up. The stirring blade is bumping the side of the bowl. You can see the mechanism is not spinning properly any longer. Only a little over a year and now it needs repair. No quality here. When it works, it's wonderful. But 3 times means you're out.Get more detail about KitchenAid KSM150PSER Artisan Series 5-Quart Mixer, Empire Red.
