janestclaire95

From Consumer Reports: For better performance and efficiency (WASHERS) • Bosch Nexxt 500 Series WFMC3301UC , $1100 • Whirlpool Duet HT GHW9400P[W] , $1200 • LG WM0642H[W] , $1000 All three front-loaders combine fine washing with energy efficiency and quiet operation. The Bosch offers better water efficiency and low vibration, the Whirlpool and LG larger capacities. But the Whirlpool is being phased out, so its availability is limited. For Dryers: Best overall dryers at a reasonable price: • Kenmore (Sears) Elite 6697[2] , $570, CR Best Buy This dryer scored excellent overall and cost hundreds less than most other models near the top of the Ratings. It does lack some frills, such as custom programming, a stainless-steel drum, and a reversible door. Its door is drop-down style. Nearly as good for less (DRYERS): • Kenmore (Sears) Elite 6692[2] , $500, CR Best Buy • GE Profile DPSE810EG[WT] , $550 The Kenmore scored a notch lower for drying than the Kenmore (Sears) Elite 6697[2] did, but it offers ample capacity and a moisture sensor and is relatively quiet. It lacks custom programs, a stainless-steel drum, and electronic controls. It also dried delicates more than we would have liked. The GE provides excellent drying performance overall and can handle big loads. It has a moisture sensor, stainless-steel drum, rotary controls, end-of-cycle signal, and a drying rack. This is a noisy machine, a consideration if you place it near living areas.

If you're tech-savvy you might like SageTV + a TV tuner card for your PC. I just bought one for myself for $139 at PCAlchemy.com (I bought the Hauppage 150 card+SageTV +remote control in a bundle). This works just like a TIVO, but you don't have to pay a subscription fee, and you can record live tv to your computer's hard drive and then output it to your television. A great use for an old computer. It is really cool, and it is wonderful to not have to watch commercials! If you live in an urban area, you can even get a HDTV tuner card to work with Sage and an antenna to record over-the-air signals of high def broadcasts. Jane