I can only answer from a man's point of view so Im sure there will be many differing opinions about the faucet difference but I would not want a faucet that just poured water straight down the drain. There might be a splash factor but when I think of rinsing dishes, as an example, the water pouring into the sink is rinsing the sink and other dishes as it runs. Additionally if you are filling the sink to wash a few dishes or other items, the water aimed at the sink will start the dilution of your soap more readily of it is playing off the sink bottom as opposed to the drain. Before I mention names of online suppliers that offer free shipping I feel it necessary, because of a recent accusation, to say that I am reasonably well known for a blogsite I maintain that is sponsored by National Builder Supply. I am not an employee, do not own it (I wish I did) nor am I paid (the owner is a good friend and I give him credit on the blog site because he does a great job and Im a satisfied customer). I am disabled retired accountant with parkinsons and I pass my days by writing the blog and reading and participating in over 30 discussion groups such as Garden Web and just enjoy helping folks. With that said there are many sites that give free shipping on merchandise, including NBS, but most have a requirement for a certain purchase amount usually $100 to $199. Watch the sights carefully because the prices can seem low but by the time you get done with your shopping the freight if not free at some level can make the price exorbitant. Now so that it will be obvious that I am not prejudiced to just NBS, my experience level and the retailers that I hear the most good about that have these free shipping policies are NBS, FaucetDirect, E Faucets. Im sure there are many more and you will probably be swamped with other suggestions but I believe reputation wise those 3 are the best. And no I also am not employed nor own any of the other 2 either...LOL

sshrivastava, Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I happen to love my Chicago faucets, and you won't find a better-made fixture at any price. Personally, while I love my Blanco sink, I think their faucets are all way too trendy or over-embellished looking. You couldn't give me one. Different strokes... James

Our water heater is set at a typical 120-130F, so nothing unusual. And we rarely run things at full hot for long. Water pressure is also typical, at 40-45psi on city water. The Blanco's primary undoing was a leak that developed in the main body around the cartridge. the sprayer wasn't perfect, but wasn't dripping/leaking too badly. This current Hansgrohe, though, is definitely not right at the sprayer connection threads. I've got it locked down for the moment, but i'm sure it's only temporary. Hopefully enough to get through the holidays, at any rate. Regarding finishes, probably looking at stainless or chrome. The KWC's do look nice, particularly the Suprimo (which is the general configuration we're going for). Just need to figure out how far it throws the water, as the nozzle is at a 30 degree angle. No bricks and mortar places that sell them locally, so I can't try before I buy.

We used Rohl’s Perrin & Rowe lineup in our bathroom reno and couldn’t be happier. Exposed thermostatic shower system, sink faucet and tub filler for claw foot tub and a whole host of accessories. The quality is tangible. We had a minor issue with the diverter valve in the shower (it worked, but it didn’t feel smooth) which Vintage Tub & Bath replaced, no questions asked. Fortunately it was an easy fix on the exposed shower (a few unions). And Rohl’s polished nickel finish is exquisite Now were doing our kitchen and another bathroom and we keep going back to Rohl. We’ve found few options which tickle our fancy and the ones we have, (Lefroy Brooks, Graff, etc.) we’re unsure of the quality. Being a car guy, I like car analogies: A Lexus LS460 is in the same class and possesses most of the same features as a Mercedes S550, BMW 7-Series or Audi A8, and may even give you less problems than the German marques, but a Lexus will never have that same “carved from billet” feel.