The SmartPower 7-Speed Electronic Blender SPB-7CH is Cuisinart's basic blender, yet it still boasts all the power and performance you'd expect from a Cuisinart.

This model is part of the Chrome Series. It features a gleaming mirror-finish chrome-plated base with black touchpad control panel. The 40-ounce glass jar has a coordinating black ring base and black plastic lid. A 350-watt motor provides ample power for stirring, mixing and blending all sorts of ingredients.

The first thing we noticed about the SmartPower SPB-7CH was the fast, efficient blending delivered by all the speeds. There are five continuous speeds, including Stir, Chop, Mix, Puree and Liquefy, as well as two specialty speeds: Pulse and Ice Crush. We loved the easy touchpad controls, which provided a seamless transition from one speed to the next.

The SPB-7CH is extremely powerful. Even the lowest speeds are capable of preparing basic recipes, from frozen orange juice concentrate to mayonnaise. The motor is a bit on the loud side but not extreme.

When fully assembled, this unit stands 14.5 inches tall and has a 6.5x8-inch oval footprint. Four slip-proof rubber feet hold the base securely in position during use. An interesting design feature of the SmartPower SPB-7CH is that the base actually weighs less than the carafe. The carafe weighs 3.75 pounds, whereas the base weighs only 3.5 pounds. The carafe has a self-aligning locking ring, which nests on top of the base. The extra-wide jar tapers only slightly so the bottom diameter (4.5 inches) is only slightly narrower than the mouth of the jar (5.5 inches).

The SPB-7CH did a great job chopping ice cubes, and it prepared some of the smoothest drinks we've seen. Even thick mixtures emerge evenly mixed, with few, if any, stray ice and/or food particles left unblended. The glass jar is extra thick for added strength and protection against chips or cracks. The thicker glass is a bit heavier to lift, but we felt it was a fair tradeoff.

We were also impressed with the assortment of excellent recipes included in the instruction booklet. The clear explanations will have you blending like a pro.


Pros: 350-watt motor, touchpad control panel, five speeds plus Pulse and Ice Crush options
Cons: Glass jar is heavy, noisy

Warranty
3 years, limited