Have the same set up, very strong blender, this is not a Vida-mix and does not make juice in the same way. But it is a very strong unit, last blender you will ever buy
Strong...for a while. If you are using it for smoothies a few times per week, you will notice after a month or two that the blades dull and it takes longer and longer for it to do what it once did. Then you notice that the motor starts smelling hot. Went through of them and then switched to the VitaMix. Costco's replacement/refund policy makes it worthwhile to try it and see if it works for you. Otherwise, skip the hassle and get something more substantial.
^ An inexpensive diamond rod sharpener can be used to touch up blade edges on blenders. Just don't make it too sharp an angle or else it will dull too quickly.
For example I've used a sharpener like the following, though mine was a rebranded Radio Shack model I bought on clearance (they don't seem to carry it any longer) but otherwise identical: (copy/paste link TEXT into browser to make it work) http://www.amazon.com/EZE-LAP-Sharpener-Unique-Shape-Groove/dp/B0001WP21Y
It also makes a nice lightweight/compact field sharpening tool for medium to smaller blades, but due to the small size it's not one of those lifetime-ownership tools, it will wear out someday.
Comments & Reviews (4)
Some reviews:
http://reviews.costco.com/2070/100056570/euro-pro-operating-llc-ninja-ultra-kitchen-system-reviews/reviews.htm?sort=helpfulness
Replaced this obsolete version: https://screen.yahoo.com/samurai-delicatessen-000000556.html
For example I've used a sharpener like the following, though mine was a rebranded Radio Shack model I bought on clearance (they don't seem to carry it any longer) but otherwise identical: (copy/paste link TEXT into browser to make it work)
http://www.amazon.com/EZE-LAP-Sharpener-Unique-Shape-Groove/dp/B0001WP21Y
It also makes a nice lightweight/compact field sharpening tool for medium to smaller blades, but due to the small size it's not one of those lifetime-ownership tools, it will wear out someday.
Thank you!