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Among recent actions taken by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) were charges against a former hedge fund advisory firm and two of its executives for fraud and numerous actions on reporting failures, unsuitable investments and supervisory failures.
Former billion-dollar hedge fund advisory firm, execs charged
The SEC charged a former $1 billion hedge fund advisory firm and two executives with scheming to overvalue assets under management and exaggerate the reported returns of hedge funds they managed so that they could hide losses and increase investor fees.
The case, the seventh to do so, arose from the SEC's Aberrational Performance Inquiry, an initiative by the Enforcement Division's Asset Management Unit that uses proprietary risk analytics to identify hedge funds with suspicious returns. Performance flagged as inconsistent with a fund's investment strategy or other benchmarks forms a basis for further investigation and scrutiny, the SEC says.
The SEC alleged that New Jersey-based Yorkville Advisors LLC, its founder and president Mark Angelo, and chief financial officer Edward Schinik lured pension funds and other investors to invest in their hedge funds by falsely portraying Yorkville as a firm that managed a highly collateralized investment portfolio and employed a robust valuation procedure. They misrepresented the safety and liquidity of the funds' investments, and charged excessive fees to the funds based on the investments' fraudulently inflated values.
According to the SEC's complaint filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, Yorkville, Angelo, and Schinik defrauded investors in the YA Global Investments (U.S.) LP and YA Offshore Global Investments Ltd hedge funds.
The SEC alleges that Yorkville and the two executives failed to adhere to Yorkville's stated valuation policies and ignored negative information about certain investments by the funds. In addition, they kept the adverse information about the investments from Yorkville's auditor, so that the firm could continue to carry some of its largest investments at inflated values. They also misled investors about the funds' liquidity, underlying collateral, and Yorkville's use of a third-party valuation firm.
The SEC alleges that by fraudulently making Yorkville's funds more attractive to potential investors, Angelo and Schinik enticed more than $280 million in investments from pension funds and funds of funds. This enabled Yorkville to charge the funds at least $10 million in excess fees based on the inflated values of Yorkville's assets under management.
FINRA Sanctions Citigroup Global Markets on Reporting, Other Failures
Citigroup Global Markets was censured, fined $900,000, and required to pay $32,355.82, plus interest, in restitution to customers on FINRA findings that it failed to report the correct contra-party's identifier for transactions in TRACE-eligible securities to FINRA's Trade Reporting and Compliance Engine (TRACE). The firm neither admitted nor denied the findings in consenting to the sanctions, and FINRA considered, among other things, the remedial efforts the firm had taken to enhance its supervisory procedures and systems.
FINRA found that the firm failed to report transactions in TRACE-eligible securities to TRACE within 15 minutes of the execution time, failed to report the correct trade execution time for transactions in TRACE-eligible securities to TRACE, failed to show the correct execution time on the memoranda of brokerage orders, and reported transactions in TRACE-eligible securities that it was not required to report.
Findings also included numerous other reporting failures, as well as a determination that in transactions for or with a customer, the firm failed to use reasonable diligence to ascertain the best interdealer market and failed to buy or sell in such market so that the resultant price to its customer was as favorable as possible under prevailing market conditions. Moreover, FINRA found that in some transactions, the firm sold (or bought) corporate bonds to (or from) customers and failed to sell (or buy) such bonds at a price that was fair, taking into consideration all relevant circumstances, including market conditions with respect to each bond at the time of the transaction, the expense involved and that the firm was entitled to a profit. Merrill Lynch Fined $450,000 on Supervisory Control System Failures
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated was censured and fined $450,000 by FINRA over supervisory control system failures. Without admitting or denying the findings, the firm consented to the entry of findings that its supervisory control system failed to include a policy or procedure requiring a review to detect or prevent multiple transmittals of funds from multiple customers going to the same third-party accounts.
The findings stated that the firm's system failed to include exception reports that would have identified multiple customer wires going to the same third-party account. Consequently, the firm failed to detect that a registered representative had initiated fund transfers totaling approximately $887,931 out of customer accounts to bank accounts he apparently controlled. The registered representative has been barred from association with any FINRA member in any capacity and the firm has repaid each of the affected customers.
Merrill Lynch Fined, Censured over Unsuitable Recommendations
FINRA censured Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith and fined the firm $400,000, which includes the disgorgement of commissions received of $47,190.03, as well as requiring it to pay $130,718, plus interest, in restitution to customers. Without admitting or denying the findings, the firm consented to the entry of findings that, through a registered representative, it recommended that customers engage in a pattern of unsuitable short-term closed-end fund (CEF) and unit investment trust (UIT) trading.
According to the findings, most of the short-term transactions involved CEFs purchased at IPOs, with customer sales charges built into the offering price. Even though CEFs and UITs generally were intended as longer-term investments, the registered representative recommended some customers sell their entire positions as soon as two months after purchase. Many of the transactions involved switching, with the customer gaining little or no economic benefit from the exchange.
The firm, through the representative, made these recommendations to purchase and sell CEFs and UITs on a short-term basis without reasonable grounds to believe the recommendations were suitable for the customers, who as a result incurred unnecessary sales charges and suffered losses of approximately $360,000 while the firm and the representative earned gross commissions of more than $47,000. The representative also made unsuitable recommendations that customers open margin accounts and use margin to buy and sell securities. These customers paid in aggregate over $70,000 in margin interest.
FINRA found that the firm failed to detect that the representative was engaging in a pattern of unsuitable short-term trading of CEFs and UITs and unsuitable transactions on margin; it also failed to respond adequately to exception reports and information suggesting the representative's pattern of unsuitable use of margin. The firm did not speak with any customers about the short-term trading or margin activity until they began to complain. In some cases, the firm relied upon the broker's self-serving explanations for the transactions without conducting further investigation. FINRA also found additional supervisory failures. Natixis Fined, Censured over WSPs
Natixis Securities Americas LLC, formerly Natixis Bleichroeder LLC, was censured by FINRA, fined $300,000 and required to revise its written supervisory procedures (WSPs). Without admitting or denying the findings, the firm consented to the entry of findings that it had fail-to-deliver positions at a registered clearing agency in equity securities that resulted from short sales and long sales, and did not close the fail-to-deliver positions by purchasing securities of like kind and quantity within the time frame SEC rules prescribed.
The findings stated that the firm had fail-to-deliver positions at a registered clearing agency in equity securities that were attributable to market-making activities, and did not close out the positions with appropriate purchases within the time SEC rules prescribed. In instances involving equity securities, the firm accepted short sale orders from other persons, or effected short sales for its own accounts, without first borrowing the securities, or entering into a bona fide arrangement to borrow the securities, and it had fail-to-deliver positions at a registered clearing agency in such securities that had not been closed out in accordance with the provisions of SEC rules.
In addition, FINRA found numerous reporting errors in a range of categories, failures in order execution and the exercise of diligence in the area of pricing for its customers, as well as delivery failures. FINRA also found that the firm effected short sales in the publicly traded securities of financial firms that had been banned by SEC Emergency Order #34-58592. Finally, the findings also found failures in the firm's supervisory system. FINRA Expels EKN Financial Services for Defying SEC Order, More
FINRA announced that it has expelled EKN Financial Services. of Melville, N.Y., for numerous compliance violations and for allowing its CEO, Anthony Ottimo, to act as a supervisor after being barred from acting in that capacity by the SEC in June 2008. FINRA barred Ottimo from the securities industry and barred the firm's former president, Thomas Giugliano, from acting in a principal capacity, suspended him from the securities industry for one year and fined him $150,000. EKN, through Ottimo and Giugliano, also violated numerous NASD/FINRA and SEC rules and federal securities laws, including antimoney laundering (AML) violations, net capital deficiencies and widespread reporting failures.
FINRA found that from 2008 through 2011, Ottimo acted in a supervisory role despite an SEC order barring him from doing so, and acted as CEO despite not being registered as a principal. During that time, EKN and Giugliano repeatedly misrepresented to FINRA that Ottimo was no longer acting as EKN's CEO, as a principal or as a supervisor. In 2011, EKN lied to FINRA examiners, reporting that since 2008, it had "never filled" the CEO position when, in fact, FINRA's investigation revealed that EKN's own documents indicated that from 2008 through 2011, Ottimo was listed as EKN's CEO and was operating in that capacity. As CEO, Ottimo supervised other EKN personnel, negotiated and executed agreements, controlled its finances, retained signatory authority over its bank accounts, and represented himself as EKN's CEO to its clearing firm and other third parties.
In addition, FINRA found that EKN, Ottimo and Giugliano, who was aware of EKN and Ottimo's regulatory violations, committed numerous anti-money-laundering violations, including failing to establish an adequate AML compliance program to detect and report suspicious activity. For instance, EKN customers attempted to inject several hundred million dollars of bogus bonds into the U.S.financial system, but the firm failed to detect "red flags" suggesting possible suspicious activity.
Moreover, EKN failed to meet minimum net capital requirements during certain periods from September 2008 to November 2010, and also prepared inaccurate net capital computations, failed to accurately report its net capital deficiencies to the SEC and FINRA, and failed to accurately record expenses and liabilities in its books and records. EKN also failed to report to FINRA, which would have made this information publicly available through FINRA BrokerCheck, that Ottimo and Giugliano each had hundreds of thousands of dollars in unsatisfied judgments and liens.
In settling this matter, EKN, Ottimo and Giugliano neither admitted nor denied the charges, but consented to the entry of FINRA's findings.


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Tuesday, Feb. 12
by, February 12th, 2013 at 05:37 PM (1229 Views)
Warm up:
600 various
8 x 25 back shooters @ :40
6 x 50 @ :15 RI
odds = front scull
evens = caterpillar fly drill
Main sets:
10 x 25 burst + cruise @ 1:00
10 x (25 AFAP from dive + 75 EZ) @ 3:00
-- 2 of each stroke + 2 shooters
-- calf cramps
Total: 2650
Woke up feeling like crap. I have the cold that Teen Fort has had the last few days. Couldn't do the workout I had planned; did some wee sprints instead, which was all I had the energy for. Even forgot my equipment bag. After, I headed to my thyroid for for my 6 month check up. My T4 is down again and my magnesium is very low, both of which likely account for the cramping I've had lately. I take a ton of magnesium, but I am apparently a fast metabolizer and don't absorb it well. I will have to be more diligent about getting magnesium injections.
On the upside, I checked the SCM relay rankings last night. Our small team did well. The mixed relays I swam with Teen Fort, Speedo and Bob Hansen in the 160-199 age group were 200 medley (#2), 200 free (#2) and 400 medley (#1). Teen Fort was psyched and has started plotting for the Albatross meet. Speedo has not been in the pool for a month, but swears he's getting in later this week. We shall see. One of our other 200 medley relays in the 200+ age group (that I swam with Barb, Gustavo and Tim) was also #5. Go us!

subset: commoncrawl


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Cadillac CTS Front Grills, CTS Mesh Grills, Aftermarket Grilles, Replacement Grills
Cadillac CTS Front Grills (whether they be replacements of overlays) are the most common exterior appearance upgrade that CTS owners will do. That's because compared to other exterior appearance upgrades like body kits and spoilers, replacing a CTS's grille is usually quick, painless, and doesn't require painting. Also, the simple upgrade usually leaves the vehicle with a completely different look.
Our line of Cadillac CTS Front Grills carry thru 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 or 03, 04, 05, 06, 07 models.
03-07 CTS Front Grills
CTS Front Grills: What do they do?
The Front Hood Grill on your Cadillac CTS is not just for looks. The grill allows for ventilation into the front part of your CTS to allow for better cooling for your radiator and engine bay. If your CTS had no grill, you would suffocate your engine bay and significantly raise the amount of heat in your engine's environment, leading to decreased performance. The factory Cadillac grille is there to let air in while keeping larger debris out to prevent damage to the relatively fragile radiator.
While most Aftermarket Cadillac CTS Replacement Grills can increase performance a bit by allowing even more airflow, they are not generally considered a high performance upgrade. Basically it's just a looks thing. Change the look of the grill and your entire front end is transformed into a different vehicle, setting it apart from the thousands of other CTSs out on the road.
Types of Cadillac CTS Front Grilles
While there are plenty of companies out there that make grills for Cadillac CTSs, they generally can fall within a few categories of fitment and look.
Replacement Type CTS Front Grills
Replacement CTS Grills are the most common type of grill and require you to completely remove the Cadillac grille from your CTS. These types of grills can be the hardest type to install since they require undoing several tabs and/or screws, and then fitting the new grill in. They usually have the advantage of being more securely attached and having more of a stock flush look to them.
In some very rare occasions where the stock grill is physically a part of the rest of the bumper, you may have to make modifications by cutting out a proper install area. You could usually tell by looking at your stock grill whether cutting would be required or not (if the grill is not a separate independent piece, then you probably need to cut). While such grills exist, we try not to carry cutting type grills due to the amount of labor and permanent modification involved.
CTS Front Grill Overlay
For a small amount of vehicles, grill overlays are available. In this case, you would leave your stock CTS alone, and the grill overlay would fit over the existing grill. The grille overlay would then snap in or have hidden screws to attach somewhere around the edge of the stock grill. The overwhelming majority of overlay type grills are billet type.
Usually, installing a CTS Grille overlay is simple, but due to the nature of the grill, it may sit out further than your stock Cadillac Grill, which may or may not look right depending on your tastes. Also, if it is a snap on type (which is also pretty rare), it might pop off in the event of a hard collision... which would probably be the least of your worries if your CTS hit something that hard.
Cadillac CTS Front Mesh Grills, CTS Mesh Grills
Mesh CTS Grills are the second most popular type of grill. The prototypical mesh consists of a crisscrossed metal design, the thinnest of which might resemble chicken wire. Designs can also include the honeycomb type mesh seen on larger speaker grills, or even plastic materials.
CTS Mesh Front Grilles typically have an outer shell made of painted or flat black ABS plastic. Installation for mesh grills USUALLY requires moving the original grill and then replacing the whole thing with the new mesh grill. Color wise, the mesh is usually either black or the natural metal color (typically chrome, stainless steel, or aluminum).
Most people do not paint the mesh itself, but will instead paint the outer shell. This is easily accomplished on mesh grills with removable mesh (typically, the thinner type of mesh grills), which allows for removal of the mesh by unscrewing a few phillips screws that hold them in.
Protection wise, larger holed mesh offers less protection from larger debris, but make up for it by offering the best ventilation possible short of driving your Cadillac CTS with no grill. Thinner mesh grills look nice on light or bright colored vehicles as they tend to detract attention from the grill area to the rest of the car. Thicker mesh grills with a heavy chrome look would work best for larger and darker vehicles.
Cadillac CTS Front Mesh Grilles are the favorite of the sport compact, drift, and drag racing enthusiasts.


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Applicable discounts not applied and Taxes included in price.
2020 Annual Stickers Valid At: Bay Shore Park, Lily Lake, Suamico, Wrightstown, Bomier, Fox Point, Perkofski And Green Bay Metro. This Pass Is Valid From January 1st To December 31st Of The Year The Pass Was Purchased In.
Annual Stickers Will Be Mailed. If You Are Looking To Use Your Annual Sticker Before Receiving It, Please Print Your Receipt And Placed It On Your Vehicle Dashboard, Making Sure The Receipt Date Is Visible.
|Receipt Document(s):
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About time too.
We think it looks quite nice, all things considered.
TomTom has launched the second of five phases in its topical island mapping project.
LIKE ALMOST EVERYTHING this year, Halloween in 2020 will be a bit different from usual.
Large scale fancy-dress parties shouldn't be happening under Level 5.
One thing we can still do, however, is watch some horror films.
There's plenty to choose from ranging between the child-friendly to the very scary ones available on streaming platforms and set to be shown on TV in the coming days.
So, this morning we're asking you: Do you plan to watch some horror films this Halloween?
Poll Results:
Luke O Callaghan White says China's leader was being strategic when he stunned the international community recently by declaring ambitious climate action plans.
One mother, who has seen her daughter suffer, feels the Government and HSE are badly failing people with eating disorders.
Eoin McGee runs the numbers in the wake of Budget 2021 and says Ireland's savers will need to step up after Level 5 to bring the economy back to life.
This week, our reader is working from home in his parents' house which means he's able to save a substantial amount.
Opinion: Eating disorders are ruthless but specialised regional care is hard to find
Joyce Russell
Eoin McGee: We will have the power to kickstart the economy
Eoin McGee
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Petit Palais, Paris
3, avenue du Général-Eisenhower
75008 Paris
artist / participant
press release
Giuseppe De Nittis (1846–1884) was the most influential of the Italian artists living in Paris in the second half of the 19th century. A contemporary of Boldini and the Macchiaioli, he was a friend of Caillebotte, Manet and Degas.
Prepared in association with the museum in De Nittis's home city of Barletta, near Bari in Apulia, the exhibition comprises some 110 paintings and pastels from public and private collections in Italy, France and the United States. Some of these works have never been shown publicly before. This is a thematic/historical presentation of a painter who exhibited at the Paris Salon from 1869 to 1884 and took part in the first Impressionist exhibition in photographer Nadar's studio in 1874.
Ever attentive to elegance and changes in fashion, this true painter of modern life observed the Paris boulevards, building sites and the horse races at Auteuil and Longchamp. He was also a sensitive landscape painter, as much at home with the contrasts of light of his native Italy as with the misty skies of the Ile de France and the fogs of London.
With Manet and Degas, he was one of the first to use pastel for large-scale works. He was also one of the leading exponents of "Painterly Japonisme" and his late work abounds in boldness of composition and layout.
This exhibition will subsequently be on show at the Palazzo del Governatore in Parma, from 5 February to 8 May 2011.
only in german
Giuseppe de Nittis
Elegant modernity
21.10.10 - 16.01.11 Petit Palais, Paris
05.02.10 - 08.05.11 Palazzo del Governatore, Parma


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Malloy stuns Lamont to win Dems' governor nod
Dannel P. Malloy became Connecticut's comeback kid Tuesday, erasing Ned Lamont's 17-point lead of two months ago in the polls and winning the Democratic gubernatorial nomination by a landslide.
Malloy will be the party's standard-bearer this fall, when Democrats try to regain the governor's office for the first time since William A. O'Neill completed his term in January 1991. He will appear on the November ballot with his running mate for lieutenant governor, Nancy Wyman.
Though the campaigns of both candidates became increasingly bitter as the primary grew near, Malloy pledged they would work together to "make sure the next governor of the state of Connecticut is a Democrat."
"We have got to unite Democrats, Independents and Republicans to change Connecticut," Malloy told his supporters during his victory party at City Steam Brewery in Hartford.
Malloy called on Democrats throughout the state come together and "recreate the state of Connecticut."
Malloy said the difference between this year and 2006, when he lost to New Haven Mayor John DeStefano Jr., is that his campaign has stayed intact.
"I've worked really hard. We've had wonderful support across-the-board, across-the-state," Malloy said. "We split labor support, but I think I got the hardest workers. What really is the difference is that our team never came apart from four years ago. It always stuck together and it only got larger. I went from winning a convention by one vote to winning a convention by two-to-one. Our team never broke apart."
Lamont became a two-time statewide political loser, adding the gubernatorial-primary campaign to his 2006 loss in the U.S. Senate election to Joseph Lieberman, after he caught lightning in a bottle in the primary, using his opposition to the war in Iraq as a wedge to defeat the incumbent, who then ran as an Independent.
The mood at Testo's, a large ballroom restaurant and catering hall owned by Mario Testa, the Bridgeport Democratic Town Chairman, was never charged with pending victory Tuesday. Returns never showed Lamont in the lead and the crowd of supporters never numbered more than 300.
Lamont and his running mate, Mary Messina Glassman, appeared just before 10 p.m. and tried to put on their best faces urging supporters to join the Malloy-Wyman camp.
"So we're driving over here and my cell phone goes off," Lamont began in his concession speech. "And my daughter in the back seat says `Oh God I hope is not another of those Ned Lamont robo calls.' "
Lamont pledged his support to Malloy and began chanting "Don't look back, look forward."
"That's the way you win and that's the way Dan will win -- by telling the truth."
Lamont said the Democrats need to show voters they can deliver an honest, balanced budget and create the first new jobs Connecticut has seen in over 20 years.
Nancy DiNardo of Trumbull, chairwoman of the Democratic State Central Committee, said earlier Tuesday night that she expected whoever lost to work for the winner.
"As I've traveled around the state, both our gubernatorial candidates were saying come Aug. 11, we have to come back as one," DiNardo told reporters at City Steam Brewery while Lamont was publicly conceding in Bridgeport at 9:45 p.m.
When asked if he thought it was worth dropping $9 million of his own fortune on the gubernatorial run, Lamont quipped "You had to remind me" before adding "it was an honor to run for governor" and try to get to Hartford "with no strings attached . . . I'm proud to have invested in a campaign to change Connecticut."
About his political future, Lamont said "tonight is not a good night to ask that question . . . maybe I'm not a natural born politician."
Still, he said "tomorrow is a new day." He said he will meet with his advisors to "talk and start healing."
Glassman also hedged when asked if she would run for political office again.
"Right now, I'm going to spend time with my family and get my youngest son, Sam, ready for college next week . He's going to Johns Hopkins where he's going to play soccer."
Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch extended congratulations to Malloy and said he and DeStefano would support him in the November election "so we can take back the governor's mansion."
Outside Black Rock School in Bridgeport, Robert Palkl, an 82-year-old retired toolmaker for the former Remington Arms plant, said he voted for Malloy because taxes and schools were the big issues for him.
"I felt that he did a great job in Stamford," Palkl said.
Malloy, a 55-year-old lawyer who served 14 years as mayor of Stamford, used $2.5 million in the state's voluntary public-financing program to defeat Lamont, a multi-millionaire cable TV executive.
Lamont, who lives in Greenwich, spent upward of $10 million on the campaign, including millions of his personal fortune, in a race that included aggressive attack ads.
Malloy held his own in Bridgeport, New Haven and Hartford, despite the endorsements of local Democratic leaders for Lamont.
While Malloy was the party-endorsed candidate by a vote of about two-to-one during the May convention, Lamont, using support from some unions and legislative leaders -- pressed for the primary.
The campaign was marked by dueling Lamont and Malloy TV and radio ads, in which the latter charged that Lamont laid off 70 percent of his workers. Lamont's ads suggested there was something shady about Malloy's home renovations and said Malloy's claims of creating 5,000 jobs while mayor were erroneous.
Lamont claimed employees of a division he sold off were placed in other jobs, while the former chief state's attorney who investigated Malloy's home work, has said no wrongdoing was found in a year-long investigation.
Lamont became a two-time statewide political loser, adding the gubernatorial primary campaign to his 2006 loss in the U.S. Senate election to Lieberman.
Lamont made the concession phone call to Malloy's fifth-floor suite at the Residence Inn in Hartford at about 9:15 p.m.
"It was pretty moving," Malloy said in an interview. "I've won a primary and I've lost a primary. Winning is better."


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Gentouch Android tablet, but lo' and behold, the gadget is now in its rightful home... our home! We don't need to tell you that we ferociously ripped open the box to finally see how the Android 2.1 tablet performs, test out its touchscreen and see if it actually has access to app stores (unlike Augen's smartbook which we toyed with earlier this week). We're assuming you're just as eager to find out the answers to those questions, so hit that read more button for some early impressions as well as a hands-on video.
Augen Gentouch 78 preview
Sponsored Links
- Hardware: Just like some of the early videos indicated, the tablet is made entirely of black plastic. For $150 we can't really knock the build quality of this thing, but we do have to say the $199 Archos 7 Home Tablet feels a lot sturdier and is also a bit thinner. Still, the Augen tablet is satisfactorily light and it's easy to hold up to read a website or e-book. As we've said before, 7-inch tablets are an ideal size for holding in one hand. Oh, and as you will see in the gallery, Augen throws in a faux leather case -- probably to hide the 78's cheap aesthetic. Surrounding the tablet is a micro-USB port, a 2.5mm headphone jack (yeah, it's a bummer!) and a microSD card slot. As for that headphone jack, Augen has told us that if you email them at email@example.com, they'll send you a pair of 2.5mm headphones or some sort of adapter -- cheers to that!
- Screen: Come on, you're not really shocked that the display is resistive and only has an 800 x 480 resolution, are you? For the price, we expected nothing more really, though in use it wasn't as bad as we'd imagined. Obviously, you have to press pretty hard on the 7-inch display to make selections, but there's also a stylus that pops out on the top of the tablet. We've actually defaulted to using the stylus, but a fingernail certainly gets the job done as well. Either way, resistive is, well, resistive. Also, you may notice in the pictures that there's a slight gap between the glass of the screen and the actual display. There's also no accelerometer or software for adjusting the screen orientation. No beating around the bush on this one: this screen is cheap, but then again so is the tablet.
- Performance / Android experience: We actually have to give Augen some credit for shipping the Gentouch 78 with Android 2.1. It's not 2.2 -- though Augen says it may be upgradeable sometime -- but at first boot we were greeted by a live wallpaper and shortcuts to the browser, YouTube, the Market, iReader, Skype and others. Basically, if you're an Android user, you'll feel quite at home. However, we cannot tell you how badly we wish there was a home and back button on the front of the device -- there are a few cheap, very clicky buttons on the back, but it's incredibly annoying to guess what each one does when you're looking at the screen. The good news is that the GenTouch tablet is nowhere near as slow as the GenBook, but its 800MHz processor and 256MB of RAM makes Android smartphones, like the Droid X, Incredible and Evo 4G, look like Usain Bolt. As you see in the video, the application panel jiggers across the screen, scrolling is quite delayed and launching applications takes a noticeable few seconds. Still the tablet is capable of doing things like loading and watching YouTube videos as well as surfing the web, albeit on Hawaiian time. There's 2GB of onboard memory, but the microSD slot should support up to 16GB cards.
- Apps / Market access: So, yes, the Gentouch does come preloaded with the Google Market, but just as we experienced with the smartbook, applications won't install. When we chatted with Augen, we were told that an update should restore access, though they also mentioned they'd be chatting with Google soon about the access. (We can't imagine Google is all that happy that this company is shipping tablets with the Market preloaded.) However, Gmail and YouTube are both pre-installed on the device, and we have had no issues with either one. Skype, on the other hand, doesn't work at all. We'll be burning through our weekend trying to sideload some .apks, so stay tuned on how that all turns out. Augen tells us the updates for the store will appear on its support site.


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Technical Support Analyst is very similar to another occupation for which we have
a full profile.
Check out our full profile for:
Computer Support Specialists
Provide technical assistance to computer system users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone or from remote location. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
Automatic Data Processing Customer Liaison (ADP Customer Liaison)
Call Center Manager
Call Center Supervisor
Computer Hardware Technician
Computer Instructor
Computer Lab Assistant
Computer Specialist
Computer Support Technician
Computer Technical Specialist
Computer Technician
Computer Technologist
Computer Technology Instructor
Computer Trainer
Customer Service Representative
Customer Service Technician
Customer Support Analyst
Desktop Analyst
Desktop Support Specialist
Desktop Support Technician
Education Technician
Electronic Data Processing Auditor (EDP Auditor)
Help Desk Analyst
Help Desk Manager
Help Desk Operator
Help Desk Representative
Help Desk Specialist
Help Desk Support Specialist
Help Desk Technician
Helpdesk Analyst
Helpdesk Manager
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Information Systems Technician
Information Technology Analyst (IT Analyst)
Information Technology Consultant (IT Consultant)
Information Technology Specialist (IT Specialist)
Information Technology Specialist, Customer Support
Information Technology Technician (IT Technician)
Maintenance Technician
Micro Computer Specialist
Microcomputer Support Specialist
Microcomputer Technician
Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)
Microsoft Office Specialist
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Network Support Analyst
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Office Systems Coordinator
PC Installation Engineer (Personal Computer Installation Engineer)
PC Support Specialist (Personal Computer Support Specialist)
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Mali: the humanitarian situation in the north, hovering between hope and doubt
GENEVA, Switzerland, February 4, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The recent fighting and troop movements compelled thousands of people to move within Mali or to seek refuge in neighbouring countries. Some of them are now starting to return home, but they are totally destitute and living in extremely precarious conditions. The ICRC and the Mali Red Cross continue to provide them with assistance, in particular food.
"We're seeing that the displaced are starting to go home, especially in certain parts of central and northern Mali," says Jean-Nicolas Marti, head of the ICRC regional delegation for Mali and Niger. "Returning families, like those that are still displaced, have no food or basic necessities. As for the families who never left, they have no more resources to share."
Displaced persons and returnees in urgent need
"The people who fled Konna for Mopti and Sévaré are starting to return," observes Philippe Mbonyingingo, head of the ICRC sub-delegation in Mopti, who is on the spot. "But their situation is precarious and we distributed food to them yesterday." In all, more than 7,200 people have received food aid from the ICRC and the Mali Red Cross.
On 30 and 31 January, over 3,300 displaced people still in Mopti and Sévaré also received food assistance from the local branch of the Mali Red Cross.
Population movements have also been reported in the Kidal area, in north-eastern Mali. On 31 January, an ICRC team travelled to Tinzauatine, near the Algerian border, to assess the needs of the displaced there, who are said to number several thousand.
"We've already provided assistance to over 15,000 people since the fighting resumed, and we will continue our emergency activities for as long as needs exist," says Jean-Nicolas Marti. "We now have greater access to the areas affected by the recent hostilities and we're trying to respond as quickly as possible to the most urgent needs."
In terms of medical assistance, the priority now is to ensure displaced civilians and returnees can obtain care. To that end, the ICRC is providing support to the hospitals in Gao and Sévaré and to six health centres between Ansongo and Timbuktu.
Families separated by the conflict
Because of the conflict, many families have been separated and scattered within Mali and beyond its borders. Their situation has been exacerbated in recent days as telephone networks have been cut in the main towns in the north of the country. The ICRC and the National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in neighbouring countries are working to reunite family members or to help them re-establish contact.
Respect for international humanitarian law: a must
The ICRC continues to remind all the parties to the conflict of their obligations under international humanitarian law, in particular as regards the protection of the civilian population and people who are no longer fighting. "Our field teams are monitoring the situation closely, and we're taking all reports of violations of international humanitarian law very seriously", says Jean-Nicolas Marti. "When the allegations we receive are confirmed, we raise the matter without delay with the parties concerned, as part of our strictly bilateral and confidential dialogue with them."


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Getting rid of your old computer? Grab a hammer
If you've ever wondered how to be sure some crook can't steal the information stored on your personal computer when you get rid of it, federal officials recommend "pounding with a hammer."
The idea is to "disfigure, bend, mangle, or otherwise mutilate the hard drive so that it cannot be reinserted into a functioning computer," according to the Commerce Department's National Institute of Standards and Technology in its "Guidelines for Media Sanitization."
The advice might seem peculiar in this tech-savvy age. But it reflects a fundamental problem people face when discarding their computers and smartphones. Other methods commonly used to eliminate stored bank records, Social Security numbers, and other confidential data can't always be counted on to work, experts warn.
"Ultimately it does mean the consumer has to do their due diligence," when disposing of such devices, said Mark Oldfield, communications director for California's Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, which promotes the reuse of electronic and other items.
Removing sensitive files from computing devices -- a process called "clearing" -- is crucial. If done improperly, criminals can still steal information such as the owner's identity and financial records. Two MIT graduate students several years ago reported finding scores of credit card numbers, medical records, email and other personal records in hard drives bought through eBay and other sources.
Because simply hitting your computer's delete button won't eliminate what's stored on its drive, one popular alternative is to use special software that wipes the information clean by writing over it with random data. Microsoft recommends Active@KillDisk or Softpedia DP Wiper software, which can be freely downloaded.
However, that approach isn't foolproof, according to the federal Homeland Security Department's U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team.
"While experts agree on the use of random data, they disagree on how many times you should overwrite to be safe," it warned in a report on disposing of computing devices. "While some say that one time is enough, others recommend at least three times."
Consequently, it agreed with the idea that "physical destruction is the ultimate way to prevent others from retrieving your information."
Choosing the best way to do that, however, can be problematic.
Although some businesses destroy data on tapes and hard drives by exposing them to a powerful magnet -- a process called degaussing -- that's often too expensive for individuals.
Other methods are to melt, pulverize or shred the computers. But experts warn that not all companies offering such services can be trusted to destroy the gadget's data. Similarly, they caution against assuming the information will be obliterated by every place that accepts electronic gear for recycling.
"As a collector, we just intake the computer parts," said Greg Sanborn of Tri-CED Community Recycling in Union City. He added that Tri-CED then sends the machines to other recyclers, but he wasn't sure how they deal with the hard drive's contents.
People also should be careful about shipping their old phones to companies offering money for the gadgets, said Robert Johnson, CEO of the National Association for Information Destruction, which represents businesses that eliminate computer data.
"If you are sending them off to be reused to one of these websites," he said, in many cases, "you have no idea what the fate of it is."
But don't despair. You can always take matters into your own hands.
"It is possible for you to destroy your hard drive by drilling nails or holes into the device yourself or even smashing it with a hammer," according to the government's Computer Emergency Team, though it cautions that it's unwise to "burn a hard drive, put it in the microwave or pour acid on it."
The National Institute of Standards and Technology has another tip. Anyone bashing their PC to bits, it notes, should consider "wearing appropriate safety equipment."
Removing SENSITIVE data
These are among the most common methods for expunging information safely and securely from a computer's hard drive:
Using sanitizing software: This wipes the information clean by writing over it with random data. But experts say it may be necessary to write over it at least three times to be effective.
Hiring data-destruction firms: Many companies promise to melt, pulverize or shred discarded computers. But experts warn that not all of them can be trusted to eliminate data stored on the devices.
Taking a mighty swing: To be sure crooks can't retrieve information from your old computer, some experts recommend pounding nails or drilling holes into the hard drive or obliterating it with a hammer.


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The Caterham Seven is one of the purest and most exciting cars on the road. It has most everything you need in a car, and absolutely nothing you don't need.
And now there's a version with a shit ton of powwwwwerrrrrr.
Caterham apparently figured their cars were too tame and said "what the hell, we'll supercharge the Seven." That's just what they did and the Superlight R600 was born. The R600 has 275 horsepower, 200 pound feet of torque, a sequential gearbox, and weighs the same as a small dachshund, or weiner dog, to the layperson.
It runs on slick tires and is basically a track day special. Caterham will have a special one make series for the car next year, which should be good fun for the nutcases at the local psych ward to participate in.
The performance should be staggering, much like the price. It's nearly $74,000 for what is basically a Campbell's Soup can with an engine. We approve.


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I am mother to 5 kiddos. I have three teenagers, who can be Meanagers sometimes!! My other two are 9 years and 18 months old. It's interesting to say the least juggling not just different personalities but going back to baby steps again! This is my life, my food, my humour, and my sanity....well, at least I think I am sane!!
Sunday, February 26, 2012
HotMix Pro vs Thermomix TM 31 part 2
I will say first and foremost. All the thermal cooking machines that I have mentioned in all my posts are good machines. What I assume a lot of you are here for is what is the best machine. There is a lot of things I need to tick boxes for when looking for the best cooking machine. I have been researching this topic for quite sometime now and I am very critical. I ask a lot of questions and have drilled thermomix reps like crazy and likewise for HotMix Pro. The price of these machines are not everyday pricing. You have to know what you are spending your money on and you have to know why you need to spend the money. So, naturally your choice has to be the best choice.
Here are is what the Thermomix TM 31 looks like:
With your TM 31 machine you get a 2L bowl, the Varoma, which for steaming, you get a spatula, a paddle for things like whipping cream. You also to my understanding, if you hold a party for your friends a bowl that keeps foods either hot or cold for up to 4hours. There might be other things I am missing, but my critique today is purely about the machine.
One thing I do like about the TM 31 is the bowl is that is has a wide base. I like wide base bowls and glasses in general, because I think they are easier to clean. That being said, its not the be all and end all! Its just a good feature.
The HM Pro bowl looks like this:
What I don't like about the TM 31 bowl is the bottom attachment.
There is a lot to get off to take out the blades to clean the bowl out. On the HotMix Pro there is no bottom attachment or heating prongs. All you have to do is take the button 'nut' off by unscrewing it, remove blades and you can clean bowl or pop it into the dishwasher, its easy as!
I want to show you what you will see on the front of the TM 31 machine. The temperatures and the other dials etc.
As you can see, there is a lot going on here!! It's a bit busy, and I have heard it takes some time getting use to working it. In comparison to the HotMix Pro Gastro, there is one LCD screen, with easy push buttons for speed, temperature, time, up and down, menu program (will explain later), start/stop, pulse/turbo.
A few things that I like about the HotMix Pro Gastro, is the fact that the bowl can be fitted either in a left hand position of a right hand position.
You will notice from any of the above pictures that there is no 'Varoma' style add-on for the HotMix Pro machines. Thermomix pride themselves on this feature. I do have to admit, its a good feature. Its a healthier cooking option. However, if you have never had a TM 31 machine and already steam your food in another way, then you can keep doing this. Its just an added bonus for the TM 31 but I don't believe it should be your deciding factor between the two machines. You can cook sous vide in the HotMix Pro which is just as healthy as steaming. If you are unsure of what sous vide is check it out here. You can cook prawns using the sous vide method in a HotMix Pro machine on 51C within 30mins, which is amazing! This is also why cooking using 1C increments is so useful and important in making amazing food and dishes at home.
One feature that the HotMix Pro machines do not have, is the inbuilt scales. Again, this is a feature that Thermomix pride themselves on. It's a good feature. For a novice in the kitchen that either never used scales or doesn't like using them, I can understand why you like this feature. However, I don't personally like the inbuilt scale option, and its a personal thing. I like to measure my ingredients separately and I like to make any measurement mistakes outside the bowl where it can be easily corrected. I have discussed this point with other foodie friends who don't own either machines and they have surprisingly agreed, that measuring the ingredients separately would be the better way to go. That being said, my TM 31 using friends swear that the in built feature is one of the best things about their machine. Again, its personal and I really don't think it should be the reason why you make a decision over one machine or the other.
So what should your decision making be based on? I believe it should be performance. Both machines perform well, to a certain extent. On an even playing field you can only compare the two machines when their features are equal. The HotMix Pro excels beyond the TM 31 in speed and temperature. It is a faster machine, and because you can increase the temperature by 1C increments and the fact that the temperature cooks as a max temp of 190C, it beats the TM 31 hands down! It is a superior machine and if you are serious about your cooking its the better machine. Its kinda like comparing the top 10 fastest sports cars. They all look and sound good, but you have to know or research the specs to know the what the best really is!
The higher cooking temperature allows you to make things like candied nuts, nougats, pralines, toffees etc. If any of you know what its like to stand at a hot stove stirring constantly for up to 20minutes to achieve caramels or nougat, then you will be able to celebrate with me know that this machine does this for you! How bliss!!
In my opinion the HotMix Pro machines are the better machines. If you are serious about your cooking and would love to be able to cook dishes in a variety of ways, just like the top chefs do, then you need to choose the best machine, which is the HotMix Pro Gastro. If you are not as serious but still want the best machine the meets your cooking level, then the HotMix Pro Easy is your machine. The price of the HotMix Pro Easy is not much different to the Thermomix TM 31. The HotMix Pro Gastro model more expensive, but you are paying for a quality machine.
In my next instalment, I will share with you some recipes that you can achieve with the HotMix Pro Gastro machine. If you have any questions, or comments, please don't be shy in sharing your thoughts below.
76 comments:
- Unknown said...
I like reading about alternatives to thermomix. When I first heard about them, it seemed they were the only type around. Pity they are all around the same price!
I do like the scales in the thermomix, but honestly I only use scales when baking and I wouldn't use the thermomix for that. I really like Bill Grangers cook books because the baking ingredients are all by weight. Its so much quicker and less fiddly that way.
- February 27, 2012 at 1:02 AM
Found your review just in time, we're contemplating buying a TM31! Thank you for such an in depth analysis.
I'm a home cook and I enjoy baking and making sweet stuff. I haven't done nougat and toffee, but I think the easier it is, the more likely I am to do it (and be successful), right?
Do you feel that for someone like me, the newness of the HotMix Pro (whether Easy or Gastro) and the relative lack of support network (no consultants in some states, smaller online forum sharing recipes, no dedicated recipe books, etc) would be a hindrance to using the HotMix Pro effectively?
Thanks again for your time in doing these reviews!
- February 29, 2012 at 3:41 AM
- FoodMuster said...
HI there, I understand some of your concerns. HotMix Pro is fairly new to Australia and originally, only began in the commerical industry, so that is why there is no forums like Thermomix. I'm sure with time, that will change. Thermomix, have been here for many years incomparison so are well established here in Australia, hence the support network you are referring to. That being said, a quick e-mail to HotMix Pro via their website, www.hotmixpro.com.au, will get you someone who can assist you. You can easily speak to your state rep for information and ideas on recipes, my rep, Ralph Goodwin is very knowledgeable and willing to help. With time, you will see more information and recipes being developed, but there are a fair amount on www.hotmixpro.com. I will be listing some recipes in my next blog post which will go up in the next week or so. I am happy to answer any of your questions, so feel free to contact me anytime:)
As for Easy or Gastro? If you want to do the toffee or nougat you really need the Gastro, the Easy won't go to the temp you need for that. I highly recommend the Gastro because its the better machine, and you also can program your favourite recipes into the machine. I haven't mentioned that yet in my posts. It might be best to contact Stewart Fruhwald, the link is on the Part 1 post.
- March 1, 2012 at 3:36 AM
Thanks for your quick reply! I suppose I'd feel better if they had a recipe book rather than just the website listings, but I can come to terms with that. ;) TBH the website isn't the most user-friendly and it's obviously written by someone for whom English isn't a native language.
Does the HMP have a reverse function like the TM31? My understanding from TM31 users is that this function is one of the special things about the TM31, to prevent pulverising stuff into a mush.
Apparently the HMP blades don't heat up the stuff that they are processing, does this claim stand up to usage? I have heard that in the TM31 sometimes you need to chill/partially freeze food before being chopping, for best results.
Does HMP have a history in Europe, or is it an altogether new product? How does Italian make and engineering stand up to German -- does it feel good to use, if you know what I mean?
One other question (sorry!), I live in QLD and as such there is no state rep, how would I be able to see one in the flesh before purchasing?
- March 1, 2012 at 4:01 AM
Hi, love your blog - I am swaying toward the HMP Gastro after reading your info. But am now interested in your response to the last lot of questions. Thanks for your info.
- March 6, 2012 at 3:27 AM
- Stewart said...
Hi All
First off I must apologise for the slowness in responding to Jln and Curious questions, I am currently moving offices and am without Internet access.
I represent HotmixPRO in Australia.
The HMP does not have a reverse function, as this is a commercial machine and the chefs that I have spoken to do not have an issue with this, it is a feature that they have no need for.
You are correct in saying that the HMP blades do not heat up the food, as they move at a maximum speed of 12500 rpm, the quicker that you can process a food item the less chance of heating up that food item due to friction. You can also stop the blades completely, and still use the heating function. I have in the past used the HMP to do Sous Vide, as the HMP does have accurate temperature control, degree by degree. For example if you select 51 deg C for Sous Vide of prawns this is what you get.
You can also have two types of timing on the HMP, you can cook to a time or to a temperature, what this means is that if you want to cook your creme anglaise to 82 deg C the HMP will switch of at 82 deg c, no need for a time to be set, BUT you can also cook the traditional way with Time.
The HMP has been available into Europe since 2009.
Your concerns regarding the country of manufacture are unfounded, it is a matter of preference, do you prefer BMW/Mercedes or a Maserati/Ferrari? Both countries have excellent manufacturing and engineering capabilities.
As it happens I will be in QLD next week, with a view of appointing a distributor for QLD, we do currently have distribution into Tasmania (Tasmanian Hotel and catering Supplies, both in Hobart and Launceston, Western Australia (HISCO in West Leaderville), SA (Debney Distribution), Victoria (Chefs Hat in South Melbourne, and I am doing a shop front presentation this Saturday 10/03 starting at around 11am, many dealers in NSW, contact Ralph Goodwin at www.mossstone.com.au, and as of today Arafura located in Darwin.
I hope that I have answered your questions and addressed any concerns that you may have had, The HMP machines are a commercial machine with great features that leave our competitors behind, with the high temperatures and safety features, along with the fact that they can be programmed with your laptop and a supplied 1GB SD card, that has a range of recipes already on it.
If you would like to talk further please dont hesitate to call me on 0432 102 680 or via email at stewart at hotmixpro dot com dot au
- March 7, 2012 at 1:08 AM
- Stewart said...
Hi All
First off I must apologise for the slowness in responding to Jln and Curious questions, I am currently moving offices and am without Internet access.
I represent HotmixPRO in Australia.
The HMP does not have a reverse function, as this is a commercial machine and the chefs that I have spoken to do not have an issue with this, it is a feature that they have no need for.
You are correct in saying that the HMP blades do not heat up the food, as they move at a maximum speed of 12500 rpm, the quicker that you can process a food item the less chance of heating up that food item due to friction. You can also stop the blades completely, and still use the heating function. I have in the past used the HMP to do Sous Vide, as the HMP does have accurate temperature control, degree by degree. For example if you select 51 deg C for Sous Vide of prawns this is what you get.
You can also have two types of timing on the HMP, you can cook to a time or to a temperature, what this means is that if you want to cook your creme anglaise to 82 deg C the HMP will switch of at 82 deg c, no need for a time to be set, BUT you can also cook the traditional way with Time.
The HMP has been available into Europe since 2009.
Your concerns regarding the country of manufacture are unfounded, it is a matter of preference, do you prefer BMW/Mercedes or a Maserati/Ferrari? Both countries have excellent manufacturing and engineering capabilities.
As it happens I will be in QLD next week, with a view of appointing a distributor for QLD, we do currently have distribution into Tasmania (Tasmanian Hotel and catering Supplies, both in Hobart and Launceston, Western Australia (HISCO in West Leaderville), SA (Debney Distribution), Victoria (Chefs Hat in South Melbourne, and I am doing a shop front presentation this Saturday 10/03 starting at around 11am, many dealers in NSW, contact Ralph Goodwin at www.mossstone.com.au, and as of today Arafura located in Darwin.
I hope that I have answered your questions and addressed any concerns that you may have had, The HMP machines are a commercial machine with great features that leave our competitors behind, with the high temperatures and safety features, along with the fact that they can be programmed with your laptop and a supplied 1GB SD card, that has a range of recipes already on it.
If you would like to talk further please dont hesitate to call me on 0432 102 680 or via email at stewart at hotmixpro dot com dot au
- March 7, 2012 at 1:08 AM
- FoodMuster said...
In relation to the reverse function. I was told by TM 31 users that this function allows the food to be mixed without chopping it and I was basically given the impression, that if a machine didn't have the reverse function you couldn't make chunky meals like a curry. However, on the HMP I have used speed 1 and cooked recipes that TM 31 machines call for a reverse function and I got the same results.
- March 9, 2012 at 7:11 AM
- FoodMuster said...
I am still working on part 3 and hope to have this posted this week or early next week. thanks to all who comment and please feel free to ask any questions if I can't help then Stewart from HMP Australia can.
- March 26, 2012 at 3:32 AM
Thank you for this in depth review. I was also thinking about buying a TM and now I'm very likely to go with the HMP.
@Stewart, thank you for your reply on the reverse function. As an idea for future product development, it is something a home cook like me would be interested in having; although I'm somewhat reassured by Foodmuster's experience with Speed 1.
For what it's worth, although I'm a home cook I'm planning on getting the Gastro model, and toying with the idea of the Creative, and toss out the ice cream maker. Not every home cook will go for "Easy" devices aimed at the consumer level! I must admit the price on the Creative is a bit off-putting since the difference is much more than many ice cream machines; I'll have to think about whether reducing the number of machines in my kitchen is really worth the extra.
One question - is it possible to buy an additional mixing bowl for the HMP?
- April 29, 2012 at 5:49 AM
- Stewart 0408 132 680 said...
Thanks for your comments Malcolm. I am happy for this week (finishing on the 04/05/2012) to offer a FREE extra bowl with every order of the Gastro model. This is while stocks last, and will be a first in basis. Our dealers listing is on our website under "Contact Us", let the dealer know that you saw this offer on the Foodmuster Blog.
Stewart 0432 102 680
- April 29, 2012 at 2:52 PM
- The Bush Gourmand said...
I can see a huge difference here.
The Varoma Bowl and Tray is the steamer that sits on top of the TM31.
This means that you can cook an entire meal in the TM31.
There's also a basket that sits inside.
Tonight I steamed Salmon (on wet parchment paper) in the top tray of the Varoma, while the Varoma bowl held a range of vegetables and the TM bowl had potato and sweet potato cooking for mash.
All in all, it tok 17 minutes to cook. It was delicious, healthy and meant there were hardly any dishes.
- May 1, 2012 at 7:34 AM
- Bec said...
Just curious, You say you own a HotMix Pro, have you owned a Thermomix? I find that once you start really using something you find out its true abilities. I have been told that the TM31 has a reluctance motor and the heating element is in the bowl can you tell me what the HotMix Pro has?
- May 9, 2012 at 3:09 PM
- Stewart said...
Hi Bec, The elements for the HMP are not part of the bowl, they are placed around the base of the well. The benifit of this is that you have a more finer control of temperature, the HMP has the ability to control temps degree by degree. If you want 106°C that is what you get.
The motor on the other hand is a 1500watt conventional brushed motor, it is not a reluctance motor.
there has been other comments regarding this in other posts
- May 10, 2012 at 4:01 PM
HMP has a steamer basket that fits inside the bowl. Also has optional extra sharp blade set especially to cut meat, i.e. to make a tartar.
- May 12, 2012 at 3:34 AM
For anyone undecided I highly recommend a Thermomix demo, there are many more features not mentioned in this review which I believe overall make it a far superior machine. Remember Thermomix pioneered this technology and still hold 25 patents on it, that tells you they are leaders in the development and creation of such a high level of technology. IMHO the HMP would be a fantastic addition to a commercial kitchen who already own a TM31 purely for sugar work and choc tempering as these are it's advantages over a TM.
(I am a chef, TM31 owner working part time in fine dining and part time TM consultant)
- May 14, 2012 at 7:17 PM
Hi Michelle,
Would you care to give a quick list of the features you believe to be superior with the TM31? I love the degree by degree versatility of the HMP (I could sell my Sous vide) and the fact It can do sugar work, but am not keen on the extra price.
- June 8, 2012 at 8:41 AM
Hi, it seems to me that you don't have a Thermomix, hence the comment "There is a lot to get off to take out the blades to clean the bowl out." While in fact the base of the Thermomix comes away in one quick and easy move - no unscrewing of nuts etc! It is very quick and very easy to take the Thermomix apart and just as easy to put it back together again. It can be done without even looking at the base of the bowl. Just gripping the slot that is shown on your photo with one hand and giving it a quick turn. Very userfriendly. Sounds easier to me than unscrewing a 'nut'.
Furthermore your comment "It's a bit busy, and I have heard it takes some time getting use to working it." in regards to the control panel of the Thermomix again tells me that you have never used a Thermomix before as you mention "I have heard...". I do own a Thermomix, I have never been to a Thermomix demo (purchased it second hand after reading up about it) and the machine came without a user manual. It is so easy to figure out that I got it working before I got the manual!
Having said all that in support of the TM31, I'd be happy to test the HotMix Pro should anyone want to send one my way ;-)
- June 21, 2012 at 3:58 AM
- FoodMuster said...
One who loves to cook, thanks for your remarks. I have actually used a Thermomix before, but its true, I don't own one. I have many friends and family members who do, and I am just relaying their comments about their use of the machine. I have been to many demonstrations so again, I do know what I am talking about and I actually was going to purchase one before I came across the HotMix Pro. In realation to your comments about the base, as you can see from the pictures, I know what I am talking about since I have seen it in action and asked my friend to show me how it comes off. There is a lot more involved with the TMX in comparison to the HMP and I think my photos say it all. So rest assured, I do know what I am talking about and I have used and seen a TMX 31 in action to be able to make a fair judgement. The TMX 31 is a good machine, I don't deny this and I have maintained this throughout all my reviews, but I do belive that the HMP is a better machine in more ways than one. HMP Australia will be at the Good Food and Wine show in Sydney this weekend, so you can see it all in action there!
- June 21, 2012 at 6:36 AM
Some rather generalised observations based on your decidedly obvious bias that you prefer the HMP :-)
I do like the sound of some of the features of the HMP but really the precise temperate being sold as great for 'Sous Vide' whilst true is hardly a deal breaker for many that will never bother with this style of cooking.
I know you keep saying you know what you are talking about, but try to do so with less bias :-)
Cheers Matt (neither TM or HMP owner, but interested in the 'all in one' machine concept!)
- June 21, 2012 at 7:55 AM
- FoodMuster said...
Hi Matt, thanks for your views. I suppose if I prefer the HMP, then I must be bias as you say, but I do feel that I have been quite fair there are some limitations to the TMX that HMP can do. You really should read my other posts to see how balanced my arguments are. I will be writing another post soon about my final remarks on both machines, as there seems to be some interesting points bought up recently that I would like to clarify. If you are interested in an 'all in one' machine, then I do believe that HMP is the best of them all, but the model you should look for would be the Gastro. Do your own research and see what you come up with. Good Luck.
- June 21, 2012 at 8:39 PM
As a Thermomix owner for a number of years, your comments about the base are incorrect. You just twist the base (not even a quarter of a turn) and off it comes. The heat pins are part of the bowl so have nothing to do with the removal of the blades. The bowl, base & blades can just be put into the dishwasher if you choose -
- June 22, 2012 at 10:02 PM
HI Foodmuster,
I may be about to buy a gastro, but need your help
1 Does it brown properly? I read the Tm can't. The 190 range should theoretically allow this on the Hmp.
2 If grinding/blending spices etc what is the minimum amount that can be processed? Will a tablespoon work for example?
3 Have you tried Sous vide? How accurate is the water temperature and will i need to buy the steaming basket if i choose to stir the water using the blades?
- June 24, 2012 at 5:45 AM
Great article!
I was wondering if you know if/when the Gastro will be able to be used with a US/Canada standard power plug?
Also, would you be able to post the dimensions? I have fairly low cupboard above my countertop and want to check the Gastric will fit under it
as a note to a couple of posts above, according to the US site, the 'easy' model only goes to 130C (v. similar to the tm31) and the gastro, it claims, it's reversible.
- June 24, 2012 at 10:34 AM
Speak to Michael at HotMixProUS. He is a great guy, very helpful. I'm sure he'll be able to sort you out with a US model.
- June 28, 2012 at 3:05 AM
- lisa_crofts said...
I have had a Thermomix for around5 years. Nothing you wrote in this post convinced me I am missing out. All the features you mention are minor issues. I look forward to reading the next post to see how the recipes compare
- July 7, 2012 at 1:25 AM
Hi. Can you please tell me if the Hotmix and Thermomix use induction cooking as in induction cook tops?
I recently attended a Thermomix demonstration where I was told that the machine works by magnets (I assume that means by an electromagnetic field) I don't know much about it but am concerned as to the potential health risks of induction cooking.
Can you comment please. Thanks
- July 7, 2012 at 6:11 AM
- Stewart said...
The HotmixPRO does not use an induction system for the heating, the heating element is placed in the bottom of the bowl well, and is part of the machine rather than part of the bowl.
The Thermomix heating system is a element encased into the bottom of the bowl, both are non induction
- July 8, 2012 at 3:21 PM
Overall not a bad review, but you do show a definite bias. Comments such as "the Varoma shouldn't influence your decision" and "reverse is rarely used" really don't help as these are features, not add-ons.
Also you really shoot yourself in the foot with your continual comments about the base of the TM and how busy the panel is.
Having said that, the TM31 is far from perfect. I've owned one for about 3 years now and whilst I really love it I think the new version needs to address some issues. Clearly the HMP is a much newer machine and should be a step ahead (at the moment). The key things I think the TM needs to look at (maybe in a TM41?) are:
* Higher temp range with degree range,
- despite comments by some TM users that Sous Vis wouldn't be used I for one would like it and it would be a great selling point.
* Scales
- I use these all the time but they need 1g accuracy.
- I regularly just place a plate on top to measure.
* Finish cooking process
- That bloody warning it's finished drives me bonkas - it should stop after 30 seconds and only give a warning every minute or so!
- Better options on what to do
- I really love the HMP option to stop cooking based on temperature reached
* Size
- I'd really love it to be 3L
- with 3 kids all big eaters I need more capacity a lot of the time
To be honest, that's about it. It's still a great machine and has incredible power - amazing for only 500W. Watching it create icing sugar from sugar in under 10 seconds (castor sugar in about 3s) is fantastic.
I'd strongly suggest to anyone who's considering either of these machines to do at least two demos so they can see what it's capable of, and to be honest see through some of the marketing hype. And by that I mean think of the things you'll use it for day by day.
- July 15, 2012 at 3:46 PM
- FoodMuster said...
Thanks Davo for your thoughts. You bring up some interesting points. The TM31 is a good machine but as you have agreed, has its limitations. I encourage everyone to do some research as now we have more options to choose from, not just a TM31.
- July 17, 2012 at 8:37 PM
I have a TM and could not do without the Varoma and the Reverse function. Also I think the controls being in the front is a huge advantage - I would not like to reach over a hot or boiling jug in order to program in my next step.
Also you do not have to have a demo in order to buy one. You can just ring up and order it over the phone. They will deliver it and show you how to work it, which is very easy.
And finally, as others have mentioned, removing the blade is simple - it takes about 2 seconds!
- July 19, 2012 at 5:50 PM
- FoodMuster said...
Thanks AT for your comments. With the HMP you don't have to reach over a boiling jug nor concern yourself with being burnt at all to program the next step, so that isn't an issue of concern. As for purchasing a TMX without a demo party, it can happen but there are alot of enticements for having a party, such is the nature of a partyplan business, so most people tend to go with the demo party for their host extras. That being said, the person who delivers the TMX is the consultant for your area, so you are actually in essense having a demo party, even if its only you there!!! Rest assured, if you purchase a HMP the rep will show you how to use it and they are always contactable should the need arise.
- July 21, 2012 at 8:14 AM
Interesting, hadn't heard of this newer gadget. Just had a thermomix party, what you say about not being able to make caramel and nougat in a thermomix is interesting. Google 'nougat thermomix' and loads of recipes come up!
- July 22, 2012 at 3:43 PM
- Stewart said...
The recipe below actually states
"Place the sugar, glucose, honey and vanilla in a saucepan over a low heat and stir until the sugar begins to dissolve. Place a sugar thermometer in the saucepan and increase heat to high. Bring to the boil and cook for 7-8 minutes or until temperature reaches 130˚C."
See for yourself
The recipe has as part of the process to use a saucepan to make the caramel. This part of the process IS NOT completed in the Thermomix, the Thermomix is used but not for the important part of making the caramel.
- July 23, 2012 at 4:30 AM
- Stewart said...
The recipe below actually states
"Place the sugar, glucose, honey and vanilla in a saucepan over a low heat and stir until the sugar begins to dissolve. Place a sugar thermometer in the saucepan and increase heat to high. Bring to the boil and cook for 7-8 minutes or until temperature reaches 130˚C."
See for yourself
The recipe has as part of the process to use a saucepan to make the caramel. This part of the process IS NOT completed in the Thermomix, the Thermomix is used but not for the important part of making the caramel.
- July 23, 2012 at 4:30 AM
- Unknown said...
Does anyone have information on how machines such as the HMP or TM31 compare to the Kenwood Chef or Cooking Chef with regard to whipping egg whites for meringue?
- August 21, 2012 at 9:01 PM
- FoodMuster said...
Hi Jenifer, I have made macarons with my HMP and the results were simply amazing, and my best results for macarons and its so simple and quick. I personally haven't used a TM31 for whipping eggs whites, but I would say a similar result can be achieved. A friend has a Kenwood (not sure of name), the model down from a Cooking Chef, and she was happy with her results for both macarons and meringue. If you want something just for making/mixing and not for cooking, you might be better with a Kitchen Aid/Kenwood or the like. If you want a cooking/thermal machine, then I do recommend the HMP, naturally;)
- August 22, 2012 at 5:27 AM
- tarasis said...
Foodmuster while I applaud you for doing a comparison review, you call into question your whole review because of your comments in the review and here in the comments section regarding the base.
There is a lot more involved with the TMX in comparison to the HMP and I think my photos say it all. So rest assured, I do know what I am talking about and I have used and seen a TMX 31 in action to be able to make a fair judgement.
If that was true then you would know that to get the blades out of the TMX all you did was push a little on that plastic bracket and take it off and then simply lift the blades out (or tip them out) there is absolutely nothi g else to be removed. You imply (particularly by showing the photos the way you do) that you have to somehow detach the heating elements too.
- October 15, 2012 at 12:27 AM
- FoodMuster said...
Hi Tarasis, I don't believe I imply that you have to remove the heating elements to remove the blades, but you do have to remove the heating elements to wash the bowl if you wish to in the dishwasher, which is not an issue with the HMP. I understand that you love your TMX 31, and my reviews are directed to those who have not purchased either. All parts aside, can the TMX 31 go up to 130C and increase temp by 1C increments? The things you are commenting about are not that important at the end of the day, its a personal view. The facts that are important is what the TMX 31 can't do but the HMP can. The TMX 31 has limitations and you can't deny that. Thanks for leaving a comment so I can make that clear.
- October 15, 2012 at 5:17 PM
- claire said...
Hi - just wondering if there is a warranty on the HMP? can't find it anywhere on the website.
- October 16, 2012 at 4:48 AM
- claire said...
also would have been nice to have the comparison between the TMX31 and HMP "easy" (which is the most similar in price) instead of the "gastro"
- October 16, 2012 at 4:57 AM
- FoodMuster said...
Claire, the difference between the Gastro and Easy is temperature range and a menu saving feature, which stores lots of recipes in the machine. There are some appearance differences as well. So, while I have compared the Gastro model, other than the features I have pointed out, you can get a reasonable picture of what you can get with an Easy. Send an enquiry on the website for the warranty.
- October 17, 2012 at 4:08 PM
I am also interested in a HMP, and wanted to know the sameb thing as Jimbob, to quote:
HI Foodmuster,
I may be about to buy a gastro, but need your help
1 Does it brown properly? I read the Tm can't. The 190 range should theoretically allow this on the Hmp.
2 If grinding/blending spices etc what is the minimum amount that can be processed? Will a tablespoon work for example?
3 Have you tried Sous vide? How accurate is the water temperature and will i need to buy the steaming basket if i choose to stir the water using the blades?
- October 24, 2012 at 7:19 PM
Hi, I am also interested in buying a HMP over the thermomix. I had a thermomix demonstration last week and was concerned that the thermomix didn't brown the onions. You could taste raw onion in the food. So does the HMP easy brown onions?
- November 16, 2012 at 10:17 PM
- FoodMuster said...
To address the last comment, most definitely! You can very easily cook through and brown your onions in the HMP, they may not be exactly the same as what you can achieve on a frying pan for example, but I always get cooked through and lightly browned onions for my recipes.
To address the second last comment about grinding spices. I have used tablespoon measurements for grinding spices, you just need to start the HMP first and on a speed for example 10 and slowly add the tablespoon of spice through the lid and stop straight away, as the spices grind as they pass through the blades. I have also done this with sugar to make caster and icing sugar and I have also used also salt.
- November 18, 2012 at 9:09 PM
- Unknown said...
Hi Foodmuster,
Thanks so much for your very comprehensive and detailed comparisons of the three machines, but more in particular the HMP vs the TM31 which is more applicable to me. I don't find your comments biased at all, so am very amused by the defensive comments made by some TM31 users here. ;-)
I used to be in awe of the TM31, but could not justify paying this price in Australia (particularly when it is sold at half that price in Europe) and not even a commercial or industrially used product, and WAS waiting for something better to turn up in the market- I'm very glad the HMP has arrived and a great competitor, in fact I'm sold on it after your review! May need to ask you more questions re the sous vide utility one day - in the meantime, i just need to save up more in order to get it, but at least, with HMP, I CAN justify getting it because it definitely sounds like the better more superior machine. :))
- February 22, 2013 at 7:32 AM
- Duchess said...
I have just returned my Bellini to Target as it was no where near as good as the Thermomix.I have been to a demo but as yet cant afford to buy one . now there has been another product put in the mix "no pun intended " ..and am confused .. am I able to see the HMP demonstrated anywhere here in Brisbane or the name of a rep that can show me the machine .. am interested in the gastro model.and would like to compare ..both machines.
- February 23, 2013 at 1:58 PM
Have you made quince paste with the HMP? What were the results and what was the process. A friend and I just made amazingly clear perfect consis quince paste with the TM31.
Also, Is there an advantage to a stinless steel bowl vs stainless steel painted bowl?
How many years warrenty on HMP?
Thanks so much.
- May 9, 2013 at 1:50 AM
- Stewart @ HotmixPRO AU said...
There is no reason why a Quince paste made in a TMX would not work in the HMP, as they both share the same technologies.
Both of our machines have a stainless steel bowl, I don't know where the painted stainless steel painted bowl came from. The EASY has a painted steel CASE, the bowl is completely made from Stainless.
The warranty is 2 years parts and 1 year labor
- May 9, 2013 at 10:42 PM
An interesting range of comments regarding the HMP and TMX. I am not from Australia but the UK I advise restaurants (mainly higher end) on equipment and tableware needs. I first looked at the HMP Gastro when it was first introduced in the UK and was very keen to know more. After all at the time there wasn't anything to compete with the thermomix and to me whilst very versatile the thermomix is a light duty machine. So after watching several demonstrations I started advising some of my clients to try it - I supplied ten machines in a six month or so period - within twelve months eight had failed and the agent who was bringing them into the UK could not get any support from the manufacturer in the end the machines were written off completely all of them less than one year old. I was not the only supplier who experienced this disaster either.
On the face of it the HMP looks a lot more robust than the TMX - I don't supply TMX as they sell direct only in the UK but can not imagine they have had this sort of failure rate.
- June 18, 2013 at 9:17 AM
- Unknown said...
Any ideas on the sort of problems they had... was it the same part on all.
or are you a thermomix rep.....?
- June 20, 2013 at 12:49 PM
Stewart, Have paid for my HMP and looking forward to it's arrival. Thank you for all your help. Louren in Adelaide was also very informative.
Thanks Foodmuster for your review. I await your HMP recipes. I also thought about a TM31 but didn't want to buy into the party plan sales thing. I am quite happy without scales or varoma in exchange for the additional features of the HMP. Looking forward to trying sous vide. Clare.
- June 29, 2013 at 4:06 AM
I also did heaps of research before buying my TM31. I disagree with a number of your comments - ie. it is NOT hard to remove blades for cleaning. In fact, it is easy as. It is NOT hard to work the machine. You only need to push/turn three buttons: time, temp and speed. Voila.
For transparency, can you confirm you have not been paid or supported by HMP for your review?
- July 15, 2013 at 10:40 PM
The measuring feature on the thermomix is truly fantastic. If you want to measure things separately, as you say, then pop a bowl on top, push the scale button and then measure into your bowl before putting the ingredient into the thermomix.
For me using the scales means I don't have to use a single measuring cup when cooking (saves a lot of washing up). Next time you bake a cake look at the amount of utensils you use and then know you wouldn't have needed a single one when using the TM - ok maybe a spoon.
It may have been better to poll your 'friends' that actually have a TM and not your 'friends' that don't.
Saying that you've "heard it takes some time getting used to working it" is just rubbish. Set temperature, set speed - that's it. If you are going to write a review, please at least try to keep it factual.
You turn the bowl slightly to one side to disassemble it - not difficult. Certainly easier than unscrewing something.
As an IT person (for over 20) having a LCD screen to me says - replacement. It's not a question of if, but a question of when the screen will break down.
I also wouldn't negate the steaming - I have 3 kids under 5 and one of the things I like about the TM is the safety. I like being able to walk away - if I had a pot of boiling water on the stove steaming vegies I just couldn't do that. With the veroma I can cook an all in one meal and time it perfectly and not have to stand over it waiting for it to cook.
That being said the HotMix pro does look really interesting. I would prefer a comparison though by someone who isn't biased and has actually used the TM before as part of their kitchen.
Basically I don't think either machine does everything. The thing to think about is what you'll be using it for.
It doesn't sound like the HotMix wins for 'normal' family cooking. I love that the HotMix is more sensitive with 1 degree increments, but for day to day cooking I just won't need it while measuring and steaming I use almost daily.
- August 4, 2013 at 3:28 AM
- FoodMuster said...
Thanks to all who have shared their comments. Different points of view make the world go round. Some of you have not had any issues with using your TMX 31 which is great. Some have and that has been expressed directly to me. If it is so easy to use, why do they have cooking classes? This is not a criticism but an observation. Not everyone will work out how to make it work best for them straight up. I do believe the HMP is a little more user friendly. That being said, the TMX 31 is a good machine, I never have said its not. If you have one already good for you, my articles are primarily for people who have not decided yet and are looking for comparisons. Oh and by the way, HotMix Pro have not paid for my opinions. I did this because I want people to know there are other options available in the thermal mixer world. So settle down and don't take my opinions so personally!!;)
- August 4, 2013 at 6:17 AM
Thanks for you review but I do feel some of your points are not very valid. I love that Thermomix offer cooking classes! There are many independent people out there also offering Cooking Classes using the Thermomix. TENINA for example offers great classes & cookbooks using the Thermomix (she does not work for Thermomix). It is a great way to learn more & give me more ideas. I think this is a positive not a negative. I purchased via a consultant - have not had a demo! but love the fact she came out and gave me a one on one handover :-)
- August 6, 2013 at 7:35 AM
YOUR POST - Hi Tarasis, I don't believe I imply that you have to remove the heating elements to remove the blades, but you do have to remove the heating elements to wash the bowl if you wish to in the dishwasher, which is not an issue with the HMP. October 15, 2012 at 5:17 PM
THIS INFACT IS TOTALLY INCORRECT ... If you have indeed used a Thermomix you would know that is not so. You remove the base & blades with a QUICK turn the bowl with the element attached is then put into the dishwasher!!
Also at the start you say the Thermomix highest temp is 100 deg. It actually is 114deg (varoma temp) These are important facts that NEED to be corrected.....
- August 6, 2013 at 9:32 PM
- FoodMuster said...
ok Varoma temp is 114deg, it is still less than the HMP, which is the comparison here. Please don't take my review to heart and personally. Its just a simple comparison. I am not saying the TMX 31 is a bad machine, it is not. You obviously love your machine and so you should. As I have mentioned before, my reviews are for people who are still not sure what to buy and I want to educate them on the options, now that there are some to choose from. Thanks for mentioning TENINA, she is a good friend of mine and might I add that she supports the HMP too!! ;)
- August 7, 2013 at 2:35 AM
- Unknown said...
I wish I had read Anonymous' comment about 8 out of 10 HotmixPROs failed within 12 months.
We had a HotmixPRO Gastro for 6 months. The problems started after 3 months and after a further 3 months of repeated attempts of repair, we had to return the system.
At certain points it did not mix properly or heat. You can read more about it on our blog (Cook, Cook, Eat!)
In my opinion, on paper, the HotmixPRO is the better machine, however it they can not reliably heat or mix, then it really doesn't matter what features are better.
I'm now looking at either a Thermomix or Thermochef. Probably heading more towards a Thermomix at this stage, just need to organise a demo to see one in person.
- August 20, 2013 at 7:09 AM
Having read this review, I'm baffled on how the TM31 and HotMixPro can even be "compared".. the article itself says "On an even playing field you can only compare the two machines when their features are equal.".. so far the only things it has in common are the 2 litre bowl, the ability to heat, and spinning blades.
But without the ability to weigh in ingredients as you go with a built in scales, or a reverse function, or a steaming unit.. well, you aren't really comparing similar machines at all.. they are apples and oranges.. and your decision doesn't end up being "Do I get a HMP or a TM31"..
The question you ask yourself becomes "Do I need a machine with the ability to reduce the number of dishes I have to wash up at the end of the night, or do I need a machine to make candied nuts"
For my household, we don't even buy candied nuts or have a desire to make them from scratch at home.. we do however have a need to steam salmon on a regular occasion.. and feed a large number of people at a time in doing so.. No sure how many sous vide parcels can fit into the HMP.. even if it was 6 or more, you can't make soup at the same time.. we quite often make soup in the bowl while steaming vegies and fish in the varoma..
I really don't know why you even needed to compare two very different machines, they're not close enough to compare...
- August 21, 2013 at 10:04 PM
- FoodMuster said...
Interesting comment that you don't feel the two can be compared. I actually think anything can be compared if you are considering purchasing either. The ability to weigh as you go in the bowl is a personal preference, you like it because its there to use and you are 'all' protective of this feature because it is part of the list of features that make up the expense of the machine. It is a good feature but if you didn't have it inbuilt but on the side like a ThermoChef you would all be telling me its the best way to have your scales. As for the Varoma, I have been advised by Tenina Holder of www.tenina.com, that because there is a stopper on the top of the lid of the HMP, you can actually remove this and place a bamboo steamer on the lid for steaming much like the Varoma. I will be experimenting with this and will share my thoughts. Steaming function is complete then.
I really do think the two can be compared because you can make healthy meals, use less dishes as you say, and also steam in the HMP, but what the TMX can't do is reach the higher temp, increase temp by increments of 1C which does make a difference for many dishes. I felt that the higher temp of the HMP was the better option for me because I do like to make things like candied nuts or caramel apples, again personal preference, but something that was a deal breaker for me.
At the end of the day, HMP and
TMX 31 can really live together in harmony. It's the users that have to chill out and realise there is room for both in the market as their is room for all the other other thermal cooking machines at varied prices and abilities. Let me emphasize one more time, it's a personal preference and I went for the HMP!
- August 23, 2013 at 2:55 AM
- Stewart said...
Further to Courtney's comments above, I have tried myself with a varoma, which was purchased of EBay, on the HMP and it does work as well if not better than the TMX, it fits perfectly on the lid with the lockable stopper (M/C) removed. Oh and by the way, I am not hiding under the Anonymous heading.
- August 27, 2013 at 9:52 PM
No one said they couldn't live together. There are various machines on the market but if you are going to compare 2 machines in particular they need to be compared properly, with the correct facts via someone who has used both machines else it is just comes off as a sales pitch.
- September 2, 2013 at 6:36 AM
I don't quite understand the Sous Vide arguement.
As far as I know (and I am only a nutritionist, not a professional chef) Sous Vide temperature range goes from 49-87 C degrees.
How could one all-in-one kitchen machine better than the other, when they both cover this range?? But none of them have the vacuum which Sous Vide needs. So one needs to use vacuum pouches (PLASTIC! Do you have any idea what comes out of plastic - and goes into the food - when heated??? dioxins, phtalates,BPA, estrogen like substances, etc . Most plastics leach hormone like substances. )
If this wouldn't be enough, shall I mention that with this method of cooking we are talking about 1 hour to 30 hours of cooking time. THe longer you leave it there the longer your food is exposed to plastic...
Is this really what we want from an all-in-one kitchen machine what supposedly makes things faster and HEALTHIER at home?
- September 2, 2013 at 9:44 PM
So to sum it up, if your priorities are to eat caramelized sugar and candied nuts, and take the blades out by unscrewing the button 'nut' and if you want to press the temperature button 60 times to reach 60 degrees, then buy the HotMixPro.
If you want 60 degrees by pressing one button once, to eat your non candied food prepared on a lower temperatures and lower speed (also means lower temperature) which preserves most vitamins and flavinoids and prevents the oils of going rancid and reaching smoking point, buy the Thermomix.
Did I get that right?
- September 6, 2013 at 8:46 PM
- FoodMuster said...
Well 'anonymous' no you didn't get it right. I keep getting the same argument about cooking at lower temps to preserve the vitamins and flavinoids (do you know what you are refering to?) as you have said. Higher temps are required for some foods, but the higher temperature option that you get with the HMP does in any way inhibit you from cooking at lower temps and for that matter a lower speed. So you can still cook healthily.
Yes you do have to add and lower your temp using a button, but you don't have to press it 60 times to get to 60C, holding your finger on the button will make it go faster and reach whatever temp you need a lot quicker than pressing it each time.
Controlling your temperature will actually help you control how 'healthy' you want your food to be. A health conscious person such as yourself, wouldn't you prefer that control rather than having a machine dictate to you what (they)it thinks the healthier way to cook is? Think about it!
- September 6, 2013 at 11:34 PM
Hmmmm. This review is interesting. These products sound amazing. Scraping the bowl out looks like as issue with gastro. Yuk. This name reminds me of a bucket and stomach spasms. They could have come up with a better name. Question? What is your commission from selling the gastro?
- October 28, 2013 at 5:48 AM
- FoodMuster said...
I don't get a commission. I share my thoughts and views for free! Your welcome!!:)
- October 29, 2013 at 6:27 AM
We have a Thermomix and have had it for about two weeks. One thing I will say about it is, it is very very noisy
- January 3, 2014 at 3:26 PM
Hi there, I heard the hotmix pro also has recipes programmed in it's computer? is this true, because that would be super awesome. Also I heard you can program it to drop off the temperature to get lovely custards?
- January 20, 2014 at 11:11 PM
- FoodMuster said...
Yes, both are correct.
- January 24, 2014 at 7:37 PM
- Unknown said...
Hi, I am looking to purchase a thermo cooker mysef, and have been pouring through blogs for reviews. One thing stood out to me and put me off the TM- childlike aggression that permeates from Tm owners/consultants. It reaks of over compensation for an appliance that should speak for itself. A quick search of "gumtree" to purchase a secondhand unit, quickly showed me there were many owners trying to recoup money impulsively spent. That being said, I was so excited about the HMP until your statement.."you should get a Gastro, not an Easy". While I was leaning towards the HMP, I simply cant afford the Gastro version, and you have pitted the Gastro against the TM instead of using the HMP Easy. For a fair, and true comparison, TM and HMP Easy should stand side by side. Truly you can see this. I love the time you've put into this blog Hun, but, I'm back where I started:- Hmp Easy, or Tm!
- February 26, 2014 at 3:10 PM
- Stewart Fruhwald said...
Hi Tiffany, I can offer you an interest free arrangement, over 12/24 or 36 months for both models.
Contact me via our website or click on the HMP ad at the top of this page.
It is true that the Easy is the closest comparison to the TM.
- March 3, 2014 at 9:03 PM
I live in Canada and I tried to go to www.hotmixprous.com but this site doesn't seem to exist anymore, and hotmixpro.com doesn't list Canada nor the USA. I guess it's not available in America because of the power needed, am I right?
- April 23, 2014 at 1:14 PM
- Stewart said...
Try this site
Good Luck,
- April 30, 2014 at 11:27 PM
Thanks for putting up this article, it was good to find out that there are alternatives to the Thermomix. Having competition is a good thing after all, for the consumers that is ;)
I am based in the UK, and was wondering if you could give the best contact there?
- June 13, 2014 at 1:42 AM