Oster Smash Blend 14 Speed 300 Blender with Smoothie Cup

After hearing my 23 year old Hamilton B. blender groan crushing half a tray of ice cubes, I knew it was time to replace it. I wanted to stick with the brand but the products they make go from the extreme high end price to the $14.95, one plastic 16oz jar type. I needed a large jug for mixing Summer time drinks and this Oster Party Jar is huge! It crushes a full 8 cups of ice in under a minute. Add some liquid and it takes even less time. I have used it to make sauces and with the pulse button you can puree veggies to just the way you like them. The negative remarks I have read seem to be the result of improper use. The owners guide will tell you to prep items you want to blend and what speeds to use to do different jobs. I read through mine before I used it and have had nothing but pleasure with it. The person that said they smelled burning plastic most likely didn't take the time to go by the book. If you want a Ninja, this is NOT going the do thesame job. if you want a practical, everyday, light to moderate blender, Walla! this one is great. and the Walmart only special price cannot be beat.