The Krups KB720 Blender has all the power and performance you'd expect from a high-end unit, but you'll be surprised by how little noise it makes.

The KB720's heavy-duty die-cast metal base houses a 1,000-watt motor that is ready for just about any blending task. The large-capacity 60-ounce (7-1/2-cup) glass jar has a sturdy locking ring that rests securely atop the base, as well as a unique lid with two side grips that lock in place during blending. We loved the look of the brushed metal base, which resisted fingerprints to retain a clean appearance.

The Krups Motor Technik electronic motor control system is unlike any we've seen. The start-up mechanism engages the blades slowly before increasing to full throttle, but even at top speed, the KB720 was remarkably quiet. There are four dedicated speeds, plus three additional options:  Vari Pulse, Ice Crush and Slow. A stop button halts operation at any time. Each button is an individual touchpad, nestled in its own recessed space.

We were fascinated by the versatility of the different speeds. The ultra-powerful Ice Crush option initiates a preset pulsing process that spins the blades in three bursts before pausing and beginning again. The process continues until you press the stop button. The Slow button engages a gentle, constant speed that is ideal for stirring delicate items like berries or chocolate chips into muffin or cake batter.

The KB720's Vari-Pulse function was our favorite. Pressing this button turns transforms each of the speed buttons into a press-and-release pulse function for exacting control over the blending process. We also liked the way the illuminated buttons clearly showed what mode was in operation.

The KB720's extra-thick glass jar resists scratching and is thermal-shock resistant, so you'll have no problems preparing hot or icy mixtures. In addition, the jar's round design pours smoothly with little or no dripping. On the negative side, the jar weighs nearly 4 pounds when empty, and it can be quite heavy when fully loaded. The molded glass handle is also a bit on the narrow side, and we were often forced to support the jar with two hands.

Several features truly impressed us. The locking ring and blade assembly leave no room for error, as the components click together and have raised indicators to let you know you've assembled the parts correctly. Likewise, the KB720's snug-fitting lid has a ridged top lip that sits atop the jar, with a 1-inch plastic ring that fits inside the jar to contain splatters.

The stainless-steel blades on the KB720 are long and narrow, like a four-prong star. Three sides of the blade are bent at different angles, while the fourth side remains horizontal. The design works well with both thick and thin batters, and it quickly crushes cubed ice. We found it best to process the ice first, and then add the remaining ingredients.

While the price is somewhat high, the Krups KB720 Blender is a sophisticated kitchen tool that gives you complete control over all your blending tasks.


Pros:  Quiet operation, 1,000-watt motor can power through any mixture, illuminated touchpad controls, heavy-duty die-cast base, multiple speed options
Cons:  Glass jar is heavy and can be difficult to handle, expensive

Warranty
1 year, limited