Toastmaster's 6-Slice Toaster Oven Broiler 328BC offers expanded capacity and traditional styling at an affordable price.

Designed in black and brushed stainless steel, this unit is large but still manages to maintain a low profile. The dimensions (17 inches wide by 14 inches deep by 9 inches tall) are more middle of the road than upper-end models in this category. A spacious interior accommodates up to six standard bread slices, as well as a variety of standard baking dishes, including an 8-inch cake or pie pan, 6-cup muffin tin and 1- and 2-quart casserole dishes. The supplied 9.5x11.5-inch bake pan has a nice enamel finish and is extra heavy duty. A standard chrome broil insert is included as well.

We were surprised at how nicely this unit toasted. Using the medium setting, several bread slices were evenly browned in less than 4 minutes. We also achieved good results with baked potatoes and broiled hamburgers. We liked the thorough instruction booklet, which provides hints for best performance. Using the Broil and Bagel settings, only the top heating element is active.

There are three dial controls to set the temperature (150-450 degrees Fahrenheit); select a function (Toast, Bake, Broil or Bagel); and turn the unit on or start the timer. The "On" button also acts as a toast color selector with setting from light to dark. We found the toast dial to involve a bit of guesswork, since it's difficult to select the exact some setting time after time.

The dial turns quite easily in a clockwise motion to set a time or start toasting. An audible clicking sound signals that the unit has begun counting down. If you need to stop the cooking before the time has elapsed, you can turn the dial counterclockwise until it reaches the Off position. You need to exert a bit of pressure to compensate for the resistance when turning the dial counterclockwise.

Both the function and temperature dials turn easily in both directions. We liked the fact that the function dial clicks into place at each setting. A large indicator light signals when the oven is in use.

We liked the convenience of the 60-minute timer, which shuts off automatically when the set time has elapsed. The oven emits a steady ticking sound when the timer is used. If you prefer silent operation, you can use the "Stay On" setting, which activates the chosen program until you manually turn the unit off.

The wire rack on this unit was unusually snug in its track. This is a plus in terms of stability -- the rack stays perfectly level, even when pulled halfway out of the oven. Since it is so snug, though, you need a firm pull to move it forward in the track. Other features include a full-view glass door, large stay-cool handle, nonstick interior and front access slide-out crumb tray.


Pros: Multiple functions, including a Bagel setting
Cons: Wire rack is overly snug in its track

Warranty
1 year, limited