Hey all, just updating this topic. I am finally shopping for a blender replacement. Vicki, I reread your message and it was helpful. I sent you an email a few weeks ago, I hope you got it. I learned a while ago that the Vitamix won't fit under my cabinet, and also learned about the Ninja's six blade technology which seems useful for almost anything.
I am looking to make purees (fruits and veggies), raw/diced foods and juices too -- even though I have a Breville which leaves a lot of waste pulp.
Any thoughts on high-performance blending would be appreciated.