KitchenAid redesigned its iconic mixer so you can set an exact speed

KitchenAid calls the Artisan Plus its biggest upgrade since 1955; it adds a half-speed setting and a redesigned control lever to select exact speeds among 11 presets.

The lever is capped with a knob to disengage detents; an alternate mode lets the lever slide smoothly for fine speed control.

A new microcontroller-based system with a Hall effect sensor and upgraded electronics detect extra friction and increase motor power to maintain speed.

New silicone-edged beater scrapes the bowl and is compatible only with this mixer; an LED points down into the bowl with tuned color temperature and intensity, turns off when tilted up, and can be manually activated.

Available starting today for $599.99, in 11 existing colors plus four new shades (sundried tomato, wild blueberry, iron ore bronze, oat); price is higher than Classic Series ($399.99) and Artisan Series ($499.99).