So here it goes; googled the model # and the product is much different in appearance. A good thing in hindsight because they probably would have jacked up the price by now. This unit is definitely of laboratory quality solid construction it has the feel and weight to prove it .The product is made in China nothing to take away from in this case. It came well packaged no damage to ceramic top was enclosed in another box filled with packaging materials. The instructions are clear and concise for instance it suggest not using round bottom flasks because of improper heat distribution from the heating plate will or can cause early wear, fair enough as well as this is made I will definitely pay attention to the instructions recieved before I had to leave town but wanted to test her out so I grabbed a flat bottomed pyrex measuring cup i know i know but could not help myself.Brought 1 liter of water to a rapid boil in under ten mins. used the 5 centimeter stir bar, 2 in. standard that was included and brought a vortex down to bottom of glassware in seconds flat and on the setting of 1 , lowest etc. for me this is more than enough machine for my needs hope this helps. Will post picture as soon as i figure out how.