I'm looking at replacing our microwave with the micro/conv combo so I'm interested in responses too. We have a convection gas range but I would probably still use the smaller oven quite frequently. Do you have a toaster oven? Might it replace part of that functionality too? We just had our toaster oven die and I couldn't find a new one I liked so we ordered a toaster for now and I'm not sure I will replace the toaster oven if the combo oven would do the trick. Still deciding...

Thanks, but I'm still a bit confused by it all. Tell you why. On YouTube, there is an old Panasonic commercial featuring what looks like my exact model: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7TvVuKf53k They clearly show the cook using the grill pan, but the ceramic tray is present. I found a manual to an older Dimension 4 model (NE-993) that is relatively similar to my NE-9970c. It states that you use the ceramic tray and roller guide at all times! Moreover, it says not to put food directly on the ceramic tray. Yet at the end of the Panasonic commercial, they show a roast chicken directly on the tray. I called Panasonic btw, and they were no help. They couldn't tell me anything about how this oven is to be used! They can't even sell me a rack. I would like to be able to use the convection, but it came with no rack. Now I'm wondering if I can just stick in a metal rack that will fit the width, or if that will cause arcing during the combination cooking mode.

I have a KitchenAid Superba range w/convection and a Whirlpool Gold w/convection microwave. I just really started using the convection setting on the range for baking cookies, etc. It does cut down on the baking time, especially if you use at least three of the racks. The cookies bake and look the same when finished baking. I used it today for lasagna. You cut the temps. by at least 25 degrees and also the baking time. The convection feature with the microwave I REALLY appreciate at holiday dinners & parties since it bakes/roasts like a regular oven. Combo cooking is available - use the MW for speed cooking and the convection to finish. I have never tried it for toast. I would think a toaster and hopefully, a toaster oven, would be faster since the heating elements are very close to the bread. The only con, if any, is that the microwave I have is large. I am trying to find a good toaster oven (for toast, etc.) since our present toaster needs replaced. I figured the toaster oven has more uses, but I do not want a large appliance taking up counter space. Our microwave is incorporated in a wall unit with a cabinet above, and a cabinet below, not on the counter. If you have any tips on a good toaster oven I would appreciate them. Good luck. Jane

Dixie, I just spent a LOT of time researching this subject. Besides the usual microwave options, one thing to consider with a CMW is venting...some require specific clearances on sides, top, or back to dissipate heat. Another consideration is the size of the turntable if you plan to use the unit for baking as many won't accommodate a 9x13 pan. The biggest generalized complaint that I read is that they can take a long time to preheat to higher temps. I looked at hundreds of reviews from multiple sites. I thought the Panasonics and GE got consistently good reviews, and the Kenmore Elite was pretty bad. Others were all over the map. I ended up ordering a Cuisinart simply because its size was just what I needed. It's supposed to arrive tomorrow. ;-)