Putting the question to the hive mind...
Let me start with one of my usual disclaimers. I know that to a certain extent I am pining for those big, floorstanding mixers and it may be that the faithful Kitchen Aid is not really just inadequate, but...
I'm tired of it walking all over the counter, making ominous noises when mixing a stiff cookie dough, and not really stepping up for things like brioche. I still like the thing for cakes, candies, and lighter duty work, but...
I want a new mixer. My grain mill purchasing pattern shows that I can be convinced to part with my hard earned money (after years of thought...), but I want something that I love (have I mentioned lately that I still love my Diamant?). At my house, I am Santa, but I'm not completely sure if I'vemade the "nice" list.
There are 3.5in the running: Bosch, the DLX (or Electrolux Assistent - or whatever name it goes by), and a hand cranked version of the Bosch. The .5 is the mini spiral sold by TMB Baking. The mini spiral has gone to .5 because my beloved Diamant has taken up the last "permanent resident" spot in my kitchen and the space required for the mini spiral would mean that I would need to move it around. I'm pretty strong for who I am, but who I am is a little old lady.
Every day, though, I think about buying that spiral mixer. Every day. For a couple of years now.
Thinking about it: Anyone have strong opinions DLX vs Bosch? If I buy a DLX or Bosch will I continue to pine for the mini spiral or will the step up in size and power to the Bosch/DLX tide me over for 5-7 years? Any advice about how I might become happy with the old Kitchen Aid? Anyone use the Bosch or DLX for cakes/candy and how do they peform? I've done a search for reviews on these pages and they were helpful, just asking one more time.
All thought are welcome. Thanks in advance.