30" AG range to replace NXR... any current advice?

6 years ago

last modified: 6 years ago

I know this has been discussed ad nauseum here, and I've just spent an hour reading through various threads, but I am hoping folks can give me some input about the current models (although I'm also looking at a couple of used ranges too.)

So, yeah. The NXR did NOT hold up. I won't go into it all, but we've put a lot of new parts into it and at this point, we either need to replace ALL the burners or just get rid of it. We're choosing the latter. Every time we cook on it it stresses us out.

I was really hoping we could find a used or scratch-and-dent for under $2,000. The best we've found so far is a used Viking NG (I think its the VGI3054 model) or a used Viking that appears to be sealed burners.. I don't know the model numbers right now. I know there have been LOTS of issues with Viking, though, so buying one of these (at $1600 or $1800) makes me kind of nervous....

My ideal is a Wolf sealed burner 30", but it's not in the budget. Thoughts on a sealed-burner BlueStar, maybe? DCS? Any other ideas? I don't want a Bertazzoni or any new/Chinese brand after my NXR experience. If I'm going to shell out for a new range it better last.

Needs:

true 30" width to fit existing space
sealed burners
ease of clean-up is important. I realize different surfaces clean easier/harder.
not a teeny tiny oven (I'm looking at you, Bertazonni!)
burners at least as good as the NXRs re: power and low simmer capability

Current local prices with rebates and stuff:
Wolf GR304 $4,450
BlueStar RCS30SBV2 $3,499
DSC RGVs404 $2,999

Thoughts? Thanks!

-Stacey

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Comments (5)

plllog
6 years ago
Re surfaces, I think enamel cleans a lot more easily than stainless. OTOH, you can use a torch on stainless (I've seen guys do it) though I don't think it's recommended. And stainless is a given with high power burners.

I'm not a range expert, but I am big on happiness. If your ideal is Wolf, why not keep looking until you find a used or scratch and dent or otherwise bargain priced Wolf? And be happy. You've suffered enough.
Stacey Collins thanked plllog
friedajune
6 years ago
last modified: 6 years ago
I think the Viking you mentioned would be a mistake. What about this GE that I am linking below, or other GE range? It's within your $2000 price range, appears to have a large oven, gets very good reviews on the AJmadison website, and the GE parts and service should be readily available, or do-able by your local repair company.

I do not have this GE range. But when my 14-year-old range dies, I am so disheartened by all the posts about expensive ranges having problems, that I will probably replace it with a lower-end GE or one by one of the Whirlpool companies. If that dies, I haven't invested a lot. A friend of mine bought a Maytag AG range for her daughter's apartment. She says it works better than her own more expensive range she paid $4k or so for. These days, it's a crapshoot.

https://www.ajmadison.com/cgi-bin/ajmadison/JGS650SEFSS.html
Stacey Collins thanked friedajune
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Stacey Collins
Original Author
6 years ago
Thanks, all. I updated the post with current local prices for the Wolf, DCS, and BlueStar I'm considering. I really would prefer a simpler piece of equipment than the GE... no touchpad. I just want knobs and switches :)
barryv_gw
6 years ago
I think the used Viking can put you back exactly where your are now, expensive repairs, and hard to find parts. I have the BlueStar RNB, and it is pretty simple to operate, I would guess than the RCS is the same.
M
6 years ago
And if ease of clean-up is important, it is hard to beat the Bluestar open burners. I have had lots of different stoves over the years. If I had to buy again, I would always get the Bluestar that I have right now. The cast iron grates will never look factory new again, as they do quickly develop a patina. And you'll always be able to see which burners I use more frequently. But neither thing bothers me. And as far as keeping them clean, that's super easy.

We have a ~20 year old Viking in the in-law unit. I hate it. It heats very unevenly, and the closed burners are a major pain to keep clean. The enamel doesn't help at all. It in fact makes things so much worse.

On the other hand, the only thing that supposedly (no first-hand experience) is easier to clean than my Bluestar is induction, as it has a large smooth surface that doesn't get as hot. I hear really good things about it, but I just don't feel it's quite ready for my style of cooking. YMMV.

30" AG range to replace NXR... any current advice?

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30" AG range to replace NXR... any current advice?

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