automatic polent stiring machines  never heard of those ... well thats not stricktly true... I have a polenta stiring machine but its not terribly efficient and is inclined to protest about the stirring ( and wander off at key moments) but hes always back when the food is ready to eat !!!!!

I havn't got a thermomix , like Ashen they do look interesting but I am unlikely to ever buy one.

I think your automatic polenta stirring machine must be the same make as my automatic drink dispenser Grand-ma!

I have one and love it! Nothing stopping you from chopping and boiling away without it, but a lifesaver in a rush : )
It is quicker for me to make a pumpkin soup or risotto in my thermomix, then it is to order a pizza - and much cheaper!
I now have my home made, no chemicals/preservatives stock in the fridge, so I am saving there too!

I almost fell off my chair at the demo I went to when I saw the price - $1939 australian dollars, but then I started breaking it down; that is only $37 a week for a year, so all I need it to do is save us from ordering or eating out once a week and it pays for itself in a year, plus the benefits of making things I would have considered too hard before!   I also considered the fact that our last laptop cost more than that and at 3 years old -  its now a dinosaur,and needs replacing! I have met someone who has been using her thermomix (the old model) for 20 years!

last week I  got home from work at 6pm and proceeded to make focaccia from scratch and a spaghetti bolognaise to go with it - then my 7 minute, no lumps, no custard powder yummy real custard. All of dinner with no preservatives, thats gotta be good for us!

I love my thermomix!  

I am admitedly a  bit of a cynic but I suspect Rennie has a bit more invested  than just owning a thermomix .  the patter seems a bit too tight to be anything less than pitch to me.  when someone breaks down price to small  increments it is usually a sign of salesmanship.