I'm not sure there is anything that approaches the function of the Karbon, especially with respect to its "compactibility." I have another Kohler that has been a major workhorse and has a fabulous reach, but it doesn't get much love on these forums: Kohler Promaster.

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I am thinking through the same set of decisions you are.

(Also sold on the stages 45, but not sold on the looks or price of the karbon. I have an added complication of a non-standard depth sink run of cabinets in an old house though.)

I think a pull down faucet would have a lot of the same function as the karbon. It wouldn't allow you so much flexibility on positioning and then having the faucet staying in place. But you would have the reach and the ability to clean out the entire big sink using the sprayer.

(I am considering a rohl wall mount faucet and a kohler hirise independent side sprayer to hopefully work with my funky cabinet size, give me more the look that fits my 1926 house, and give me the function of two faucets and a sprayer--still working out the details on whether that set up is possible and will work as hoped.)

As an aside, I am considering a tapmaster, largely because dh really wants one. So that adds a different kind of functionality to whatever faucet is used.

Have you seen one in person? I too did not like the look until I saw it in person and was able to play with it. I fell in love with it right then. It's so minimal, it really doesn't draw the eye to it. Here's mine. Can you find it?

Another GW user has the silver one in a traditional kitchen and it looks good there too. I know it's expensive, but it is really worth it. We've had ours for almost 2 years now and is one of the most loved parts of the new kitchen.

I agree wholeheartedly with TexasPenney! I thought it was very odd looking when I read the posts here years ago, then when I saw the video of them in use and understood the function I knew I had to have it. It is a very unassuming little work horse. Any pullout with a long enough hose will work, but the function to position as you need it, then have your hands free is fantastic.

I am not aware of another faucet that functions in this way, except for knock-offs. It is very loved in this kitchen too and quite a conversation piece with guests.

KitchenDetective, I can't say I LOVE the look of that faucet, but i like it better than the Karbon -- yours looks kind of "neutral" rather than ultra-modern.

CRL -- yeah, you're in a rougher spot since you're working with "funky cabinets". I'm talking about a new build, so at least I do have a straight run of cabinets and more choices.

TexasPenny, I attempted to see one in person today, but Home Depot doesn't carry it. I'm going to do some looking around at high-end places and see if I can find one to see. But, yeah, I can spot yours in the picture right away. The positive is that it ties into your stainless steel appliances.

I'd be interested in hearing whether you're satisfied with your range -- I'm considering something in that genre, and it's not something that's discussed around here often.

BBTrix, I've seen the video too, and I totally agree that the function is amazing! No, I wouldn't buy the knock-off; my concerns aren't about cost, though the price is substantial!

Thanks for your feedback. I'm thinking that the ultimate answer to my question is, "No, no similar product is available with a less cutting-edge look." Bummer 'cause I do want this product.

The range we have is KitchenAid Freestanding Double Oven- gas KGRS505XSS. My husband really wanted a Wolf but I was adamant that I wanted a little oven and a big oven so I could get rid of the toaster oven on the countertop. I really like it. It's not as powerful as the Wolf, but really, I don't need that kind of power.

I'm quite sure I'd like the little oven: Common sense says it'd heat up quickly, and it'd be big enough for many of the things I cook.