The LG Electronics Over the Range Convection Microwave LMVH1750ST is packed with smart technology. This unit has all the features consumers look for in a microwave (e.g., sensor cook technology, auto programs), plus convection and combination cook options that are indispensable for baking, roasting and defrosting foods. We loved the look of this oven, with its stainless steel front, complemented by a black tinted glass door and digital touchpad control panel, as well as black sides. The interior of the oven is also constructed from gleaming stainless steel for a beautiful appearance and enhanced heat conductivity.

In terms of convenience, you can't beat the many Sensor, Auto, and Speed Cook options offered by this machine. The control panel has well labeled buttons for Sensor Cook, Sensor Reheat, Popcorn, Auto Defrost, Speed Auto Combi Cook and Auto Cook. There are also choices for basic Microwave, Convection and Combi Cook, as well as Soften and Melt, which are specially designed for chocolate and butter.

With its multitude of options, you might expect the LG Over-the-Range Convection Microwave to be overly complicated, but it isn't. Although you may have read the instruction manual to gain a complete understanding of the features, this unit's controls are simple and straightforward. For basic tasks, you can easily determine which buttons to press (especially when the digital LED readout prompts you to enter a time or to press Start).

We tested a number of this unit's functions -- all with great results. The microwave options worked as expected for heating beverages, cooking frozen entrees and convenience foods, and reheating meals. We loved the Sensor Cook functions, which did a splendid job with fresh vegetables, baked potatoes and popcorn. We used the Auto Cook feature to cook barbecued chicken legs, and while the results were not comparable to grill-cooked chicken, the food was perfectly cooked throughout and still retained a good bit of its moisture.

We also baked using both the Convection and Combi Bake settings. We appreciated the speed of the Combination Bake function but preferred the basic Convection setting, which allowed for more rising of cakes and breads. We achieved excellent results, however, with both functions. We also were impressed with LG's thorough and informative instruction booklet, which has step-by-step instruction and charts for using each of the unit's functions. The instruction booklet not only explained the various settings but also gave a clear indication of the best method to use for various foods.

The LG Convection Microwave comes with a large 13-3/5-inch glass turntable, a 12-inch raised wire rack and a 12-inch round shallow baking tray. The oversize oven cavity (21-5/9-inch width, 14-1/4-inch depth, 9-6/15-inch height) accommodates round or square pans or casserole dishes. Heat-resistant glass and ceramic dishes are preferred cookware options. Metal pans may be used on the convection setting only. This model is designed for over-the-range mounting and offers five-speed venting, a powerful hood light and other convenient features such as a handy countdown timer, clock, an EZ-ON button (to start cooking immediately in 30 second increments), and more/less buttons to add or subtract 10 seconds of cooking time.

The LG Over-the-Range Convection Microwave performs nearly all of the functions of a regular oven, making it an invaluable tool in the kitchen. It browns and crisps meats and baked goods even faster than a traditional oven, thanks to the powerful convection fan. The only limitation we noticed was broiling, which the LG cannot manage. Even so, you can obtain similar results (melted cheese, for instance) using the convection feature on its highest temperature setting (450 degrees Fahrenheit). The unit took a while to preheat at the high setting (a full 15 minutes) but performed quite well once heated.


Pros: EZ-ON function, roomy interior accommodates oversize pans, multiple cooking options including microwave, convection and combination
Cons: Takes a while to preheat for convection, no broil function

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor (limited); 10 years, magnetron tube