Vitamix Explorian Blender: Is It Worth It?

by Benjamin Cohen 43 views

Hey guys! Are you on the hunt for a high-performance blender that can whip up everything from smoothies to soups? Then you've probably heard of Vitamix. They're like the Rolls Royce of blenders, known for their power and durability. Today, we're diving deep into the Vitamix Explorian Professional Grade Blender, specifically the Renewed Premium model in Black. We’ll explore its features, performance, and whether it lives up to the Vitamix hype, especially as a renewed option. Let’s get blending!

Unboxing the Vitamix Explorian: First Impressions

Okay, first things first, let's talk about what you get in the box. This Vitamix Explorian comes with the motor base, a 64-ounce pitcher, a tamper, and a cookbook. Now, being a Renewed Premium model, it might raise some eyebrows. But don’t worry, “Renewed Premium” from Vitamix means it has undergone a rigorous inspection and testing process to ensure it meets their high standards. Think of it as getting a like-new blender at a more wallet-friendly price. The black finish is sleek and modern, fitting seamlessly into any kitchen decor. The 64-ounce pitcher is a great size for families or anyone who likes to batch cook. It's made from BPA-free Eastman Tritan, so you know it's safe and durable. The included tamper is crucial for processing thicker mixtures, ensuring everything gets properly blended. And let’s not forget the cookbook – a treasure trove of recipes to inspire your culinary adventures. The initial impression is solid, and the blender feels every bit as robust and professional as you'd expect from Vitamix. You can tell right away that this isn't your average countertop appliance; it's a serious piece of kitchen equipment designed to last. Considering that the Vitamix Explorian has three pre-programmed settings for smoothies, frozen desserts, and hot soups, this blender is clearly designed for convenience as well as performance. The variable speed control also offers flexibility for a range of recipes, which is a great feature to have. So far, so good! It looks like we're off to a promising start with this renewed gem.

Power and Performance: Does It Blend?

Alright, let's get to the heart of the matter: how does this Vitamix Explorian actually perform? The answer, in short, is impressively well. This blender packs a serious punch with its powerful motor. It effortlessly pulverizes ice, frozen fruits, and tough vegetables into silky-smooth concoctions. We're talking smoothie perfection every time, guys! The three pre-programmed settings – Smoothie, Frozen Dessert, and Hot Soup – are super handy. Just load up your ingredients, select the preset, and let the Vitamix do its thing. The Smoothie setting delivers a perfectly blended drink in seconds, while the Frozen Dessert setting churns out creamy, ice cream-like treats with ease. Now, let's talk about the Hot Soup setting. This is where the Vitamix Explorian truly shines. It can actually heat up soup from cold ingredients through friction heat alone! That's right, you can toss in your veggies, broth, and spices, and in about six minutes, you'll have a piping-hot, ready-to-serve soup. It’s seriously mind-blowing. Beyond the presets, the variable speed control gives you full command over the blending process. Whether you need a gentle chop or a high-speed puree, the Vitamix Explorian delivers consistent results every time. Even tough ingredients like nuts and seeds are no match for this powerhouse. It turns them into smooth nut butter or finely ground flours without breaking a sweat. We put it to the test with a variety of recipes, from green smoothies and protein shakes to chunky salsas and creamy sauces, and it handled everything like a champ. There were no clumps, no unblended bits, just perfectly smooth, delicious results. The self-cleaning function is also a huge time-saver. Just add some soap and water, run the cycle, and you're done. This blender's power and performance definitely live up to the Vitamix reputation. It’s a true workhorse in the kitchen.

Pre-programmed Settings: Smoothie, Frozen Dessert, and Hot Soup

Let's dive deeper into those pre-programmed settings on the Vitamix Explorian. These are game-changers for convenience and consistency. First up, the Smoothie setting. If you're a smoothie fanatic like me, you'll appreciate this one. It's designed to create the perfect smoothie texture every time, no guesswork involved. The Vitamix automatically ramps up the speed and then adjusts it to ensure all the ingredients are fully blended, from leafy greens to frozen fruit. You end up with a silky-smooth, lump-free smoothie in seconds. It’s so easy to get a healthy and delicious breakfast or snack on the table in minutes. Next, we have the Frozen Dessert setting. This is where you can unleash your inner dessert chef. Whether you're craving a creamy sorbet, a decadent ice cream, or a healthy frozen yogurt, this setting makes it a breeze. The Vitamix Explorian expertly blends frozen ingredients, creating a smooth, scoopable texture. The key here is the tamper, which helps push the ingredients into the blades and ensures even blending. You can get creative with flavors and ingredients, making everything from classic vanilla ice cream to exotic fruit sorbets. It’s a fun way to enjoy healthier frozen treats. And now, the star of the show: the Hot Soup setting. This is where the Vitamix Explorian truly sets itself apart. As we mentioned earlier, it can actually heat up soup from cold ingredients through friction heat. It’s a magical process! The blades spin at such a high speed that they generate enough heat to bring the soup to a piping-hot temperature in about six minutes. This is not only incredibly convenient but also preserves the nutrients in the ingredients, as you're not boiling them on the stovetop. You can make everything from creamy tomato soup to hearty vegetable stews. Just toss in your ingredients, select the Hot Soup setting, and let the Vitamix work its magic. These pre-programmed settings make the Vitamix Explorian incredibly versatile and user-friendly. They take the guesswork out of blending and deliver consistent results every time. Whether you're a busy parent, a health-conscious individual, or simply someone who loves delicious food, these presets are a huge win.

The 64oz Pitcher: Size Matters

Now, let's chat about the 64-ounce pitcher that comes with the Vitamix Explorian. Size really does matter when it comes to blenders, and this pitcher strikes a great balance between capacity and practicality. The 64-ounce size is perfect for families or anyone who likes to batch cook. You can easily make large batches of smoothies, soups, sauces, or dips, saving time and effort in the long run. If you're prepping for a party or just want to have leftovers for the week, this pitcher has you covered. It’s also a great size for entertaining, allowing you to whip up cocktails or appetizers for a crowd. The pitcher is made from BPA-free Eastman Tritan, which is a durable and shatter-resistant material. This means you don't have to worry about it cracking or breaking, even when blending tough ingredients or making hot soups. It's also lightweight and easy to handle, which is a bonus when you're pouring out large batches of your creations. The clear design of the pitcher allows you to easily monitor the blending process, so you can ensure everything is being properly incorporated. It also has clear measurement markings, making it easy to follow recipes. The lid fits snugly and securely, preventing spills and splatters during blending. It also has a removable plug, which allows you to add ingredients while the blender is running, a handy feature for adjusting the consistency of your blends. While the 64-ounce pitcher is a great size for many uses, it's worth noting that it might be a bit too large for single-serving smoothies or small batches of sauces. For those situations, you might consider investing in a smaller container attachment. However, for most everyday blending tasks, the 64-ounce pitcher is a fantastic size. It's versatile, durable, and makes it easy to create large batches of your favorite recipes. Whether you're making a family-sized smoothie, a pot of soup, or a batch of homemade nut butter, this pitcher has the capacity to handle it all.

Renewed Premium: What Does It Mean?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the term “Renewed Premium.” It might sound a little mysterious, but it’s actually a fantastic way to get a high-end blender like the Vitamix Explorian at a more accessible price point. When a Vitamix is labeled as “Renewed Premium,” it means it has been returned to Vitamix for various reasons, such as a change of mind or a minor cosmetic imperfection. However, these blenders are not simply resold as-is. Vitamix puts them through a rigorous inspection and refurbishment process to ensure they meet their strict quality standards. Each “Renewed Premium” blender undergoes a multi-point inspection, where technicians check for any mechanical or electrical issues. Any worn or damaged parts are replaced with new ones. The blender is then thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Vitamix also tests the blender's performance to ensure it operates at its optimal level. This includes checking the motor's power, the blade's sharpness, and the functionality of the controls. Only blenders that pass this rigorous testing process are certified as “Renewed Premium.” In essence, you're getting a blender that performs like new, but at a discounted price. It’s a smart way to save money without compromising on quality. Buying a “Renewed Premium” Vitamix is also an environmentally conscious choice. It helps reduce waste by giving a perfectly good blender a second life. It’s a win-win situation for your wallet and the planet. Of course, it's always a good idea to check the warranty on a “Renewed Premium” blender. Vitamix typically offers a warranty on these models, providing you with peace of mind in case of any issues. Overall, the “Renewed Premium” designation is a sign of quality and value. It means you're getting a Vitamix Explorian that has been thoroughly inspected, refurbished, and tested to ensure it meets the brand's high standards. It’s a great option for those who want the performance and durability of a Vitamix without the hefty price tag.

Pros and Cons: Is the Vitamix Explorian Right for You?

Okay, guys, let's break it down. After putting the Vitamix Explorian through its paces, it's time to weigh the pros and cons. This will help you decide if this blender is the right fit for your needs and kitchen.

Pros:

  • Powerful Performance: The Vitamix Explorian is a blending beast. It effortlessly pulverizes ice, frozen fruits, and tough vegetables into smooth, consistent results. Whether you're making smoothies, soups, or sauces, this blender delivers top-notch performance.
  • Versatile Functionality: With its pre-programmed settings and variable speed control, the Vitamix Explorian can handle a wide range of tasks. From making hot soups to grinding nuts and seeds, this blender is a true kitchen workhorse.
  • Convenient Presets: The Smoothie, Frozen Dessert, and Hot Soup settings take the guesswork out of blending. They deliver consistent results every time, making it easy to create your favorite recipes.
  • Large Capacity: The 64-ounce pitcher is perfect for families or anyone who likes to batch cook. You can easily make large quantities of smoothies, soups, or sauces, saving time and effort.
  • Self-Cleaning Function: The self-cleaning cycle is a huge time-saver. Just add soap and water, run the cycle, and your blender is clean in seconds.
  • Renewed Premium Value: The “Renewed Premium” option offers a fantastic way to get a high-performance Vitamix at a more affordable price. These blenders are thoroughly inspected and refurbished to ensure they meet Vitamix's quality standards.

Cons:

  • Price: Even as a “Renewed Premium” model, the Vitamix Explorian is still an investment. It's more expensive than many other blenders on the market.
  • Size: The 64-ounce pitcher can be a bit too large for single-serving smoothies or small batches of sauces. You might need a smaller container attachment for those situations.
  • Noise: Like most high-powered blenders, the Vitamix Explorian can be quite loud, especially at high speeds.

So, is the Vitamix Explorian right for you? If you're looking for a powerful, versatile, and durable blender that can handle a wide range of tasks, it's definitely worth considering. The “Renewed Premium” option makes it a more accessible choice for those on a budget. However, if you only need a blender for occasional use or small batches, you might be able to get away with a less expensive model. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and preferences. But if you value performance, quality, and convenience, the Vitamix Explorian is a top contender.

Final Verdict: A Blending Powerhouse Worth the Investment?

Alright, guys, we've reached the final verdict on the Vitamix Explorian Professional Grade Blender (Renewed Premium). So, is it a blending powerhouse worth the investment? In my opinion, the answer is a resounding yes! This blender lives up to the Vitamix reputation for power, performance, and durability. It effortlessly handles everything from smoothies and soups to frozen desserts and sauces. The pre-programmed settings are incredibly convenient, and the variable speed control gives you full command over the blending process. The 64-ounce pitcher is a great size for families or batch cooking, and the self-cleaning function is a huge time-saver. The “Renewed Premium” option is a fantastic way to get a high-end blender at a more affordable price. You're getting a machine that has been thoroughly inspected, refurbished, and tested to ensure it meets Vitamix's strict quality standards. Of course, the Vitamix Explorian is an investment. It's more expensive than many other blenders on the market. However, you're paying for quality and performance that will last for years to come. This isn't a blender that you'll need to replace every year or two. It's a durable, reliable machine that will become a staple in your kitchen. If you're serious about blending and want a machine that can handle any task you throw at it, the Vitamix Explorian is an excellent choice. It's a true blending powerhouse that will elevate your culinary creations. Whether you're a smoothie enthusiast, a soup lover, or a culinary adventurer, this blender will help you create delicious and healthy meals with ease. So, if you're ready to take your blending game to the next level, the Vitamix Explorian Professional Grade Blender (Renewed Premium) is definitely worth considering. It's a blending investment that will pay off in delicious results for years to come!