I just cashed in a bunch of expiring United miles on a $500 Amazon giftcard and thought I might upgrade my blender to something better equipped to handle the fruit and vegetable smoothies I've taken a liking to. I know that there are some differences between Vitamix and Blendtec blenders (I believe it's Vitamix that has instructions indicating that you shouldn't fill the carafe more than halfway), but if someone has a specific recommendation, I'll take it.
