PeteK, thank you for mentioning the yahoo groups, they (mixer-owners and wacem) are treasure troves of cool information (and my newest time sinks)! I'm in no hurry to get a new mixer (still using the food processor), which is a great opportunity to do research or even find a cool mixer in a thrift store or something. I much prefer home-made bread, but lately have been buying more often than baking, but come winter, I'll probably start baking more often and a mixer that will allow me to double or triple my recipe will be a great thing to have.
As for the electric knives, yes, I have one (Black and Decker, less than 5 years old) that is not only great for bread and pies, but my partner's sister-in-law is fascinated by them, so during Thanksgiving all I have to do is give it to her after the turkey rests out of the oven and she goes to town carving the roast, which I appreciate -- I find it easier to make the roast than carving/presenting the dish.
Cheers,
-- Paulo.