Choosing a breadmachine

I bought a breadmachine for myself last year. I started out my search by reading the Consumer Reports reviews of breadmachines. Consumer Reports concluded that machines for around $100 were adequate for most people's needs and did a pretty good job of reviewing several machines. I bought the Breadman Plus for about $100 and my friend bought the Regal machine listed. We found that it was difficult to find some of the models they reviewed, particularly around Christmas, and at least one was no longer being made. I would suggest that you read the article at the library or wherever just to start, as it points out some things such as the cost of replacing the pans, paddles, the noises they make, various features, etc. Several places on the internet have comments and reviews as well(start at the Kitchenlink Breadmachine Center, there should be some links there. I was on a Breadmachine list for several months, and many of the ardent bakers loved their Zojurushi machines, since they are more flexible than most in allowing you to program them to accomodate fussier breads with several rising stages or whatever. I like my Breadman because it is a good, reliable, basic 2 lb machine. If I ever need a new one, I might go on up to a more expensive fancier one.