Finally, a good electric razor

I've been through several Norelcos and a Braun and have never been fully satisfied with an electric razor, until now. Unfortunately, blade razors make my face break out. I usually choose an inferior electric shave over the irritation of a blade.

For the record, I have a fairly thick, bristly beard and an angular face and neck. To complicate things, the hairs on my neck grow very flat and pose a challenge to any razor. This may be more information than you wanted but it makes a big difference when shaving.

I received the Spectra for Christmas and have been extremely satisfied so far. It has exceeded my expectations.

The noise and vibration levels are so quiet that it is hard to believe it's on. It is quiet compared to old Norelcos and very quiet compared to the Braun.

The Spectra has a comfort dial that essentially sets the spring tension in the head. I adjust between normal and sensitive, depending on what part of my face I'm working on. Even on the normal setting, the comfort level is far beyond anything I've ever experienced.

The shave closeness is also unmatched in any other electric I've tried. It's still not as close as a blade can get but my face is in much better shape. I'm able to reach all the tricky spots around my chin and adam's apple. All of this without any skin irritation or heat buildup.

Like most other Norelcos (unlike the Braun) most of the trimmings stay in the razor's head. The blades can be removed for detailed cleaning and the whole head can be rinsed under the faucet.

The only gripe I have is something that has not yet happened but will. The NiCd batteries will eventually develop a memory and shorten their time between charges. I don't know why manufacturers won't spend an extra few cents and use NiMH batteries.