Classic Quality = True Bargain

A 'bargain' at US1600 - US1800? Try AUD3000+ (which is what I had to pay for the N-50 in Australia) and yes, I emphatically claim it is a True Bargain. The reason so many people mention the longevity of the Hobart mixers when compared to the competition, is because so many are still working perfectly after 10, 20, 40, or 50 years -- long after some of the industrial-strength paint has chipped or worn, the immaculate gears and motor will power on and on, and just ... work. And the N-50 will do so quietly and with self-assured strength and dignity.

I previously invested in one of the most 'powerful' US-made mixers (a one-time relative of the venerable Hobart). What a disappointment .... very noisy and although very glossy and beautifully styled, it sadly went 'bung' after just a few months (the electronic control or motor, or both, shorted and the mixer raced uncontrollably). The machine wasn't badly treated and wasn't over-used, as it was just required to turn out dough for 2-3 loaves of bread per week, and 1-2 meals of pasta, etc. Due to shipping costs it hardly seemed worth the effort to return the machine under warranty, and instead I will eventually obtain the parts and repair it myself = my cost, my loss. That mixer will be relegated to 'light duties' or passed on to a friend or relative who doesn't need to make dough.

Why didn't I just buy the Hobart in the first place? Many times I have asked myself this, and probably it was because I thought I could 'save' money in getting the 'lesser' machine. Lesson learnt. There is a reason that the Hobart N-50's cost more .... because they work. Forever, it would seem.

The Hobart N-50 certainly commands attention in the kitchen, but not too much so. It reeks of classic good taste and sensibility ..... it looks practical and strong, and indeed it is. When powered-on, the N-50 simply and comfortably handles anything placed within its bowl, without fuss or complaint, and so quietly it had me wondering why such a significant noise differential with our previous mixer?

The answer of course is that the Hobart is a direct drive machine that relies on its gears for speed changes, rather than a 'noisy' electronic speed controller that has to constantly balance the power drawn against the density and quantity of ingredients in the mixer. The geared and fixed-speed motor on the Hobart N-50 is far more stable and less prone to failure than many of the modern mixer designs which rely heavily upon electronic circuit boards for their RPM control.

I used to worry whether the previous machine could handle what I was placing in it ........ with the N-50 there is no such consideration and it inspires confidence. A machine like this really deserves the respect it holds in so many kitchens, both domestic and professional. Well done and thanks for the bargain, Hobart!