Thanks for the help, everyone-- the link to the bbq forum was especially useful: those folks take their grills seriously! I think I gained a couple pounds just reading about the food they make... I think that point that this is radiant, in the 500, possibly as hot as 700 degree range, as opposed to 1200 degree infra red is very valid. The Solaires look great, but so expensive: I'm building a new house, and the line of credit might allow me to sneak one of these in, but I'm reluctant-- maybe in a couple years, after the dust has settled. If I didn't have a pretty immeadiate need for a new grill, I'd probably wait a year and see what evolves. But I do need one, and the consensus seems to be that this machine does generate higher temps than a conventional open flame burner. So I may pay a visit to HD tomorrow, and succumb to temptation...

Jacobsfamily: Yes, the Bluestar oven works great for Jewish holidays. It is like the old-time pre-computer ovens, and indeed the Bluestar has no computer electronics. There is a light next to the oven temperature dial that glows when the oven is heating and turns off when it is not. You can raise the temperature when the light is on and lower it when the light is off. On yontefs we keep the oven on and also the simmer burner. Last Shavuos we kept the oven at about 200° just for reheating but we went through all our food so we also baked a chicken at 400°. We used the burner to cook fresh vegetables and to reheat soups and stews. A couple of things to be aware of : 1) The Bluestar doesn't have a Sabbath mode because it doesn't need one -- the misnamed "Sabbath mode" is a result of trying to deal with computer electronics that digitally control temperatures and turn ovens off after 12 hrs. 2) Because of the way the Bluestar is wired you need to have the burner(s) you plan to use already on before yontef begins unless you cut power off to the range (unplug it) -- but then, although you could turn on more burners by igniting them from a flame (without triggering the electronic ignition), you couldn't use the oven. My husband has toyed with the idea of having an electrician friend separate the wiring and make the burner circuit separate from the oven, but I'm fine using one burner and the oven... and it would almost certainly void the warranty. TeacherSuzanne: I do not have a grill. I do know that the Wolf grill works differently than the Bluestar. The Wolf is either on or off; the Bluestar has an adjustable temperature. Try asking on the Bluestar thread or start a separate thread about grills. Have success, Ellene

I have the Solaire infra red grill and it is the best!! Cooking on infra red takes a little practice but when you get the hang of it there is nothing like it. Super quick heat up time, quick cooking time. For burgers 1/3 lb. from the time you turn on the grill untill they are ready is 8-10 minutes. The infra red puts a nice crust on the out side to hold the juices in so even if you like your steaks well done they will still be moist and juicy. Like I said it takes a little practice at first so do not buy the best steak out there the first couple times you cook on it beacuse you might ruin them. Infra red is very hot and very fast so you need to have all of your stuff ready and do not walk away while it is cooking. Once you get the technique down everyone will be over for dinner. I even bought the Solaire anywhere portable grill for camping, tailgating and it is just as awesome.

Bluestar used to offer a 36" RNB configuration with a charbroiler (special order) but I think the built in charbroiler is now only available with the Platinum BS...someone correct me if I am wrong. Here's the platinum version >>>> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXqwCHBan4w This addon charbroiler >>> is another choice if you don't need a built in unit, this might be a good alternative to save some $$$$ if your not looking to charbroil on a daily basis.... This... http://www.webstaurantstore.com/12-x-24-x-5-add-on-charbroiler/117761149.html or this ... http://www.webstaurantstore.com/fmp-133-1207-11-x-24-x-5-add-on-charbroiler/3591331207.html As was suggested give Bluestar a call to confirm....