KitchenAid's Pro-Line Dryer KHGV01RSS(gas)/KHEV01RSS(electric) is well made and attractive -- but bafflingly expensive. KitchenAid has decided to replace all its dryers with just this one model and slapped a sky-high price tag on it. The original MSRP of this model is $3,499.

Although well made and designed only for custom built-in applications, this model is not worth the excessive cost, and we can't see why anyone would ever spend this much money on a dryer. If you appreciate getting value for your dollar, the KHGV01RSS/KHEV01RSS is beyond incomprehensible.

In all fairness to this product, it does offer quality components we've never seen in a dryer before. What concerns us, however, is that in spite of these components, actual performance differs very little -- if at all -- from dryers that cost less than half as much.

In the case of the KHGV01RSS/KHEV01RSS, it's what you don't see that's costing you the big money. Made of expensive 18-gauge stainless steel, this model sports a solid steel frame, welded seams, sound deadening pads and double paned glass. These components come together in a dryer that's solid and incredibly quiet.

When it comes to performance, we can't find a way to justify the added expense of this model. Like models priced far lower, this dryer offers a sensor, nine cycles, six temperature settings and a 120-minute wrinkle preventing extended tumble. Its capacity of 7.5 cubic feet is large, but plenty of less expensive models are this big as well.

The KithcenAid KHGV01RSS/KHEV01RSS does offer two motors instead of the usual one. Having two motors allows the heat to be used without turning the drum. This is useful when using the drying rack to dry items such as sweaters, gym shoes or pillows.

KitchenAid's dryer lacks the newest trend to hit the industry -- a steam feature. If shopping for a dryer, we would be more likely to take a risk on one of the new and less expensive steam technology models, than invest in the KHGV01RSS/KHEV01RSS dryer with its ho-hum features.

Truly a product for those who have the luxury of spending more than $3,000 on a dryer, the KitchenAid KHGV01RSS/KHEV01RSS is extravagant, but very well built. If the price remains near the original MSRP, then we think that it is far too expensive. If the retail price moves more in line with other top-of-the-line units, then it may be a unit worth considering.



Pros: Solid construction of 18-gauge stainless steel, two motors, sensor, built-in installation, 5-year warranty
Cons: Unbelievably expensive, offers no value-added performance features other than high-quality components, lacks steam

Warranty
5 years