I am an experienced home bread baker who routinely bakes artisan breads, whole wheat, multi-grain, and SD rye breads.  I have successfully used my KA, Bosch Universal, or even my Cuisinart for all types of dough.  

After reading King Arthur's Whole Grain cookbook, I was struck by their assertion that when they field-tested three methods for kneading:  bread machine, electric, and hand, the bread machine consistently demonstrated superior results. 

When I bake bread, I incorporate a preferment, autolyse and, depending on the dough, fold and stretch.  I wonder if anyone has had successful experience with a particular type of bread machine.  Having read Amazon bread machine reviews (I always read 5 and 1 star reviews), I am more confused than ever.  I do not necessarily want to bake my bread in a bread machine, but I would enjoy the luxury of being able to program a series of good kneading times.

Thanks,

Diane