LOVE my Bertazzoni, 36inch, stainless, 6-burner!!!! Purchased it as a blow-out floor model and was a little nervous at first. I've had it for 9 months now without issue. Well, when it was delivered, I noticed one of the little black feet had a crack--called Bertazzoni--they sent me 2 replacements within days! For the first week I had it, I called Bertazzoni Cust. Service for every little bit of info I could think of and they were great. If the rep didn't know the answer, they found someone who did. The oven is incredibly consistent. I don't understand how it can be so accurate. I have TWO oven thermometers and this oven is dead on, without fail. As for the vented heat, no problem there, either. I live near Chicago, but our summers get pretty hot, and it never was an issue. In the cases where I've read about excessive heat, I would say that is NOT the norm. I have a very good hood, also. Maybe that helps? It's the Broan with the clock/timer display and "theater lighting" (Evolution QP3 Series) The appliance store recommend one with higher cfms but if you do the calculations, this one is fine. At least once/week I have all 6 burners + oven going and the two work great together.

I looked at the 30" Berta today in person, and thought it was OK, but ultimately felt less substantial than the DCS, Thermador, and Viking next to it. Now considering Viking as well. I like the way they look and really feel like the bad comments are exaggerated. Here's a question: Between Viking and American, will Viking have substantially better curb-appeal/resale when it comes to selling a home?

Did you try to search at the bottom of the page on both the Bertazzoni and the American? There is quite a bit of info on both on the site. That said, I have had both ranges. Currently we have the 30" American and would absolutely positively recommend the American over the Bert. The performance, in our case, is far above! However, the best thing you could try to do is see the ranges in working order in person. Short of that, try to review the owner's manuals. The Bertazzoni has some unique operating requirements you should be aware of. (For one, you need to hold the oven door open to ignite the oven burner) Good luck with your choice.

Have you tried Bertazzoni's customer help? I found them very helpful with a question about my range hood. 1-866-905-0010