We have a Breville Excel, Platinum Edition.... haven't used it over summer because it warms up the kitchen a bit and we don't have air con... but looking forward to using it in winter with lots of homemade soups. I agree, it's more of a special treat thing rather than a daily staple. I've experiemented with lots of success in doing flavoured breads too (they usually come with a recipe book) and I made a stollen during that cold spell before Christmas. They are very verstile.

I can't remember who posted about the doughiness on the top of their loaves but that sounds to me like the seal isn't tight and heat is escaping.

I also agree that even though homemade bread does go stale quickly it's kinda better than eating preservatives all the time. Also, if you like bread and butter pudding this is a perfect solution.

The only thing I find a little frustrating with my breadmaker is that the churning device is sometimes tricky to extract from the bottom of the loaf after it is cooked. Otherwize it's all very easy to use. I've never had a failed loaf... they've all been very yummy... good luck!