First, let's look at the construction. The ab slide roller at first appears to be fairly cheaply constructed. It's basically two hard plastic wheels on a handle grip that you use to slide up and down. However, I found the plastic to be more than sturdy enough for what you are trying to accomplish. In fact, I think if they made this out of metal then the tool would not function very well.

Second, I want to look at the functionality and performance--this is what really matters. To be honest, I found the tool extremely difficult to use...but in a good way. Essentially, I could make the abs workout as easy or as hard as I wanted by just not going down very far or by going down extremely far. In fact, when i went down all the way I found this to be one of the most difficult abdominal exercises I have every done.

Third, I looked at ease of use and safety. When used properly I found the ab slide roller to perform very nicely. However, I do feel it's very important to follow the ab slide instructions very closely so you do not put undo pressure one your lower back area.

Overall, I would rate the ab roller as a good buy, with a recommendation especially for those fitness buffs who are looking for a unique way to target their abs.

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This review is of the Panasonic massage chair model EP 1272. The EP 1272 is part of the Real Pro Elite series of massage recliners. Panasonic is known for its advanced massage techniques and simple electronics. This review will point out the main features, functions and warranty coverage for your perusal.

One of the important aspects of the purchase is your long term protection. The warranty coverage is designed to remove the longer term risk from the purchase. Let us take a look at what Panasonic offers with the EP-1272. This model comes with 3 years parts and 1 year labor. Labor is only available at authorized outlets which is not too convenient. Panasonic now offers in home service, but does not include it with this model. We find this warranty under par for the rest of the industry.

There are some interesting features on the EP 1272. Some of the more important are the 4 one-touch automatic programs, 8 manual massage techniques and the 3 manual back courses. There is also effective lower body coverage to target the feet and calves.

The 4 automatic programs include: shiatsu, Swedish, stretch and quick. Shiatsu provides overall stimulation of the back, neck and shoulders utilizing the soft shiatsu, deep rubbing and tapping actions. Swedish provides overall loosening of the muscles in the back, neck and shoulders using longer strokes, circular motions and rhythmic actions. Stretch provides overall stretching of the back muscles using the rolling, pressing, shiatsu and kneading massages. After just several uses, the Panasonic EP1272 massage chair will quickly become your favorite piece of back stretching equipment. Quick provides loosening of the back, neck and shoulders using rhythmic actions, circular motions, squeezing and tapping.

The 8 manual massage modes include the following massage techniques: kneading, compression, Swedish, Hawaiian, soft shiatsu, tapping, regional rolling and full rolling. Kneading is particularly effective for the neck and shoulders. Compression is recommended for full body relaxation. Swedish loosens up large areas of the back. Hawaiian helps to relieve tension in the lower back. Soft shiatsu is excellent for loosening up knots in the back. Tapping loosens up the finer muscles of the neck or as a finishing massage. Regional rolling provides focused rolling out of the back muscles. Full rolling provides overall stretching of the back muscles.

If you like to have your feet or calves massaged, then the EP 1272 can provide relief for you. The leg rest has built in air bags to provide a soothing and comforting compression massage. Position the area of your leg and let the EP1272 work out those tight calf muscles. Raise the leg rest more horizontal and place your feet in for a relaxing and relieving foot massage. The EP 1272 is a treat for both your calves and feet.

The remote control is well designed. It is both simple and easy to understand and to use. Select from the 4 one touch auto programs for immediate full body massage therapy. The side panel contains the 8 manual massage programs. Just select the technique for you and select a back course and let it work you over until your troubles are gone. There are adjustments for the massage intensity and the width of the rollers. The control also allows you to pinpoint a specific target area in your back for custom relief.

The EP-1272 is a solid contributor to the Real Pro Elite massage chair line by Panasonic. You have such a wide range of manual massage therapies. You would be hard pressed not to find relief with this machine. Although, the massage chair is solidly built, we have to say we are not impressed with the short warranty coverage from Panasonic. They also need to work on the industrial design and make it more aesthetic for the average residence. But on the massage side, the Panasonic EP-1272 massage chair is a solid performer and one of the better values in the mid range massage chair recliner market.

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This review covers the top of the line massage chair from Omega Massage. Their new Montage Premier massage chair is evaluated in this product review. We will cover 5 important areas in reviewing this recliner. We look at warranty, ergonomics, ease of use, key features and massage therapy. We score each category up to 20 points and then provide an overall rating out of a possible 100 points. Here is an in depth look at the Montage Premier massage recliner.

Warranty & Customer Service: For the consumer, the warranty is a form of risk reduction. In any transaction, one party takes on more risk than the other. The warranty is to reduce the risk of the consumer and balance out the transaction. Therefore, warranty is especially important on higher ticket items. The Montage Premier is backed by one of the best warranties available. Omega Massage gives you 5 years on the frame, 3 years on parts, 3 years labor and 90 days in-home service. Omega also covers any parts shipping expense for one year. This is a more comprehensive warranty than any reputable manufacturer. From a customer service standpoint, Omega has a national warranty call center and is responsive and technically competent with minimal turnaround times. The Montage Premier earns a 19 in Warranty & Customer.

Comfort & Ergonomics: The ergonomic design of this chair is well done. The chair comes with a 4 inch leg rest extension. The recliner is wheelchair accessible for users that are physically challenged. The controls are very accessible and this chair comes with the first wireless sub remote. This provides excellent convenience as most of the controls are available on the sub remote. The chair is comfortable to sit in. It can fit individuals who are 6' 6" and has a weight limit of 300 pounds. We score this a 19.

Ease of Use: One thing is for sure, more features and options are being added into massage chairs, which is great. However, as more features are introduced manufacturers need design the products to be easy and intuitive to understand. We have seen our share of complex controllers that only cause frustration with users. The Montage Premier comes equipped with many advanced features and many manual massage options. Omega introduces a wheel button for adjusting the footrest and chair back. The wireless remote is controls virtually 80 percent of the chair functions and is the size of a credit card. Manual controls are still located in the side panel of the main remote, but you have great controls with the convenient sub remote. This is the only chair that you do not have to get up when laid back in the chair to make adjustments. The Montage Elite earns a 19 in Ease of Use.

Key Features: The Montage Premier comes packed full of fantastic features. We will point out two in detail. The lower body traction system and the synchronized music feature. The lower body traction is designed to stretch the lower body from the hips to the ankles. The recliner activates the airbags to hold your ankles and raises the legrest horizontally. It will then recline the legrest to 3 lower positions stretching the lower body as it goes. This is very relieving and helps to increase your flexibility of joints and muscles. The other unique feature is a music synchronization function. When activated, the massage movements actually follow the tempo of the music being played. The Montage Premier comes with an MP3 player and headphones. This is very soothing and helps to induce full body relaxation. We give this recliner a 19 for its key features.

Massage Therapy: There is an arsenal of massage therapy options with this massage recliner. It has 5 automatic full body massage programs. There are 4 manual massage techniques. There are 6 manual massage back courses. The lower body is covered with air compression massage for the hands, arms, feet, calves, thighs, buttocks and hips. You can adjust the speed of the massages to 4 different levels and there are 4 width adjustments for the back rollers. To enhance the massage experience, there is the lower body stretching, music, and full body heat therapy. If you have an ache or pain, this recliner can provide you thorough relief. This is the most complete massage chair on the market today and we give it a full 20 points for massage therapy. Probably the only place you'll get a better massage is from A-Team massage at 'Massage Orlando', don't pass it up on your next visit to Disneyland

This impressive massage chair earns a 96/100 in our evaluation. The Montage Premier Massage Chair Recliner has solid massage therapy. It covers most everywhere to effectively relieve and soothe tired and aching muscles. You get outstanding warranty coverage direct from the factory without the need to purchase an extended warranty. There are the additional treatments of full body heat with individual heating controls for the chair back, seat and leg rest. Get stretched out with the lower body traction system. Relax and drift off with the included headphones to your favorite music. If you are in the market for a massage chair in this range, then this is one of the top contenders.

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What are the best shiatsu massage chairs available on the planet today? This article will highlight the top three shiatsu massage recliners. Shiatsu evolved through the centuries in Japan as a derivative of acupuncture from ancient China. Massage chairs first started in Japan, but have now been picked up by manufacturers around the world. The technology to replicate the subtle shiatsu techniques is nothing short of extraordinary.

The best shiatsu massage chairs are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination. They are a long term investment in your health and stress management. The massage recliners that we will perform the best shiatsu massages will range between $4,000 and $5,000 in price. These provide full body massage capabilities for many years to come.

Shiatsu is a fairly complicated massage technique. It uses a variety of hand movements and it also uses acupressure. Acupressure is a derivative of acupuncture. It uses the body's trigger points to induce relaxation of the major organs and the whole body. Replicating these techniques is not easy and requires software, mechanical movements and electronics to make it all come together.

If you are looking for the best of the best, then you should go with a name brand massage chair like Omega, Sanyo or Panasonic. These companies have solidly manufactured massage chairs and reliable warranty coverage. These companies have developed excellent technology and incorported it into their top chairs. Let us take a look at some of the top models offered by these top firms.

One excellent massage chair being offered by Sanyo is their HEC-DR7700. The DR7700 is the top of the line for Sanyo. It comes with a barrage of fabulous features and functions. One such feature is the GK roller mechanism that can literally "reach out and grab you". This shiatsu technology allows for the massage mechanism to reach over the shoulders to perform a gripping massage. This is a very soothing and relieving massage incorporated into this shiatsu lounger.

Another shiatsu lounger is the Montage Premier by Omega Massage. This high end, luxury recliner is packed full of great massage therapy functions. The Montage Premier comes with a body scan technology that identifies your shiatsu trigger points. The Montage Premier then targets these areas to stimulate to induce full body relaxation. This is a massage chair that comes with other important features such as an MP3 player, full body heat therapy and a lower body traction system.

Panasonic has been a leader in shiatsu massage chairs and with their Real Pro Ultra series they continue this tradition. One of the best models from the Real Pro Ultra series is the EP-30004 shiatsu massage chair. This model has a unique shiatsu massage that performs ultra fine kneading. This is also called Junetsu in Japanese. This massage applies firm pressure while making a circle movement that penetrates deeply through the muscle tissue. This is a very effective massage and wonderful for taking knots out of your muscles.

Shiatsu massage chairs are evolving at an incredible rate, with these top companies pushing the technological limits. These massage chairs are simply amazing in the range of capabilities and the effectiveness of the massage therapies. They perform full body massages from your head to your toes. They can provide so many different types of massages. There is virtually no muscle that they cannot effectively soothe or relieve. These are not your father's massage chairs!

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Nothing beats getting a full body massage when you are tired and your muscles are aching. The initial tension and muscle stiffness makes you sensitive to the massage therapy. As you relax both your body and mind, the massage starts to relieve those aches, pains and anxieties. The relief from the soreness is very positive. Most people view a massage as a treat and something they have to go to a spa to receive. The advanced massage chair recliners of today are starting to change all that.

There is always an interesting set of perceptions with regard to massage by a therapist or a chair. Certainly, the environments are different. If you see a massage therapist, then they set the mood and ambience. If you have a chair, then it is in a room or office and others may or may be present. However, the massage therapies can be equally effective from therapist or chair. A therapist massages from the top and must use their weight to vary intensity. Whereas the chair, massages from the beneath by using your weight to vary intensity. Most people are surprised at how effective a recliner can massage.

An advanced massage recliner made by Panasonic performs whole body massage. The EP 30004 comes equipped with specialized rollers for the back, neck and shoulders. For the lower body the Real Pro Ultra has an air compression system. The air compression system powers 22 airbags throughout the seat, leg rest and armrests. This system provides gentle or firm compression massage to soothe and relieve aching muscles.

Create the spa environment in your own home. Omega introduces its Montage Premier massage chair that comes with an MP3 Player. Put on the headphones and hit the music synchronization button and the massage movements are orchestrated to the rhythm of your music. This fascinating technology provides for a total immersion environment as your mind clears out and your body soon follows. You will certainly drift off to higher levels of comfort and relaxation.

The features that are being added into massage chairs increases every year. The massage programs keep getting more varied and include many more techniques like Hawaiian, Swedish, deep tissue, shiatsu and many more. More complimentary functions are being added such as lower body traction which extends the muscles and ligaments of the lower body. The back massage rollers contain more finger-like mechanisms that replicate the movements of hands. The technology keeps advancing and coupled with software has produced a tremendous variety of massage therapies.

Getting a whole body massage should be simple and easy. I am tired. I come home. I sit down and press a button. Ah, finally, relief from the stress of the day. Just a few minutes can work wonders. Do not worry, you can come back later and get a few more minutes. No need to make an appointment. This is the convenience of a massage chair. It is always available. It does not get tired and no appointment is necessary. Just of few minutes of your time is what is needed. Relief is just the push of a button away. It could change your attitude. It could change your life. That is up to you. It will at least make you feel great. Get a full body massage in the comfort and convenience of home with a massage chair recliner.

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Panasonic has advanced its massage chair product line with the Real Pro Ultra Series. The Real Pro Ultra series uses a technology platform concept. Low and high end models share the same technologies. This scalable technology permeates the Real Pro Ultra line. We will look at the EP 30004 model which is second in the series.

First, we want to look at the long term protection given to the customer. You want to make sure you get adequate warranty coverage. It is just like an insurance policy. You hope you don't need it, but if you do, then it is there. The other factor is to make sure you go with a name brand company. You want to make sure the company will be there down the road as well.

The Panasonic warranty coverage is the following for the EP 30004 massage chair recliner: 3 years parts, 1 year labor, 1 year shipping on parts and 1 year in home technician specialist service. The 1 year in home service is generous, but they jip you on the 1 year labor. We would expect more from a name such as Panasonic. There are situations where you can get additional warranty coverage, so find out if you are interested in this model.

You are reading this review to learn about the advanced features of the Panasonic EP30004 massage recliner. The Junetsu massage therapy is a deeply penetrating massage type. It makes use of thumb like motions in a circle pattern. While in motion it penetrates into the muscle through to the bone for excellent relief. Additionally, the EP 30004 can stretch you out at both the shoulder and the lower body.

The EP-30004 comes with an arsenal of massage therapies for your enjoyment. There are four pre-programs which are shiatsu, deep, Swedish and stretch. There is also a 5 minute Quick pre-program for which covers a variety of massage techniques and functions. You can use the some massages in manual massage mode for a total 8 possible manual massages. These include ultra knead (Junetsu), shiatsu, kneading, Swedish, stretch, tapping, rolling and grip. There are also 5 ways to target certain regions of your back including: neck, shoulder, middle, lower and full back.

Besides the voice guidance, Panasonic includes the self programming feature. The self programming button will remember the last 5 minutes of massage performed. It then stores it in memory for instant recall. This is particularly effective for regions you want to target for repeated massage therapy. After all, massage therapy is most effective when done on a recurring, frequent basis. You can use the self program for up to four users.

The EP-30004 make use of an air massage and compression system. Air is pumped with an air compressor to airbags. These airbags provide a squeeze, hold and release action. This soothing compression massage covers the calves, feet, hips, shoulders, arms and hands. This air massage system provides adequate coverage to the major muscle groups. There is also a shoulder stretch and a lower body stretch function.

We are unimpressed with the look of the design. It tends to be very industrial. However, it is very functional, which hopefully makes up for its lack of savvy design. There is a leg extension which goes an extra five inches. The arms and hands are massaged by lifting up a cover on the armrests. The compression is actually firm. At least the Panasonic design team got rid of the unsightly arm massage apparatus.

This is a high end luxury model with some great massage therapy features. The design is a bit industrial and the warranty lacking for a name brand. The air massage covers most of the body. The Junetsu massage therapy is great for working out knots. If you are looking for a chair, then try this one out, but it is not the ultimate massage chair recliner. It is however, fairly close.

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This is a review of the luxury massage chair by Omega Massage. The Omega M-5000DLX massage chair is the subject of this product review. Omega is known for its striking aesthetics, advanced technology and effective massage therapy. The M 5000DLX is in the $3,000 to $4,000 price range. We will evaluate the major features, functions and warranty of the DLX.

The warranty helps to offset the risk the consumer is taking in purchasing a manufactured product. Machines are made by humans and humans make mistakes. You want to get sufficient warranty coverage to protect your investment down the road.

Let us take a look at the warranty coverage provide by Omega Massage. The DLX comes with 5 year warranty coverage on the frame of the chair. You also get 3 years coverage on parts and also on labor. Omega also gives you 90 days of in home technician service. They also cover 1 year of shipping for parts. This is the most comprehensive warranty coverage of the major massage chair manufacturers.

Let's go through some of the important features of the M-5000. This massage chair comes with 5 automatic programs, 4 manual massages, and 4 manual massage back courses. The automatic massage functions include full back, neck and shoulders and lower back. The manual massage functions include finger press, kneading, tapping and combination kneading/tapping. The manual massages can also be adjusted to three levels of intensity to find the rate level of penetration to suit your needs.

The automatic massage functions are very effective in the DLX. This is perhaps one of the strongest massage chairs on the market. In fact, Omega includes an extra removable back pad (and more if needed) to soften the massage for those more sensitive. The neck and shoulders massage is very effective. The programming of the sequences of the massage techniques and variations is soothing, penetrating and relieving. We have not found a better upper back massage and we have tried many, many chairs.

For your full body pleasure, the DLX comes fully equipped to massage your buttocks, thighs, calves and feet. The M5000 has an air massage system to cover the lower body with soothing compression massages. The airbags are specifically designed to target each region of the body. The gentle or firm squeeze, hold and release helps release those aches and pains. The footwells contain reflexology nodes to penetrate into the feet relieving tension throughout the body and inducing total relaxation and balance.

The M 5000 comes with many designer touches to enhance the appeal of this massage recliner. Omega uses top grain ox hide leather for all the upholstery. The armrests come with highly varnished real wood. The remote control has advanced features like the back lit LCD. There are 5 auto programs that start with the touch of one button. The manual controls are tucked away in a concealed side panel.

Omega understands and caters to total body relaxation. They include a foot reflexology massage to relax your major organs. They also include an MP3 player for your favorite music. Just download your favorite tranquil music onto the provided USB stick and slip on the headphones for your relaxing pleasure.

The M-5000 DLX delivers all that a massage chair is about. It has full body capabilities including head to toe reach. Enjoy an excellent neck and shoulder rub down while your feet unwind to a soothing reflexology massage and your mind drifts off into more creative endeavors. You get peace of mind with the best warranty coverage from Omega. This is certainly one of the top massage chairs on the market today.

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If you are looking for a massage chair, then finding relevant information regarding potential shiatsu chair candidates is important. Reviews and evaluations can point out the relevant aspects of each product. To assist potential purchaser researching massage chairs, we evaluate 5 key categories which include Warranty & Customer Service, Comfort/Ergonomics, Ease of Use, Features and Massage Therapy. Each category is worth up to 20 points. All points are added up to give a total score based on the 5 categories. A disciplined, systematic approach takes out bias and presents facts. We review the Luxury range of $4,000 to $5,000 and feature the Omega Montage Elite massage chair.

Warranty & Customer Service: It is important that the manufacturer stand behind its product. A good gage of the company's confidence is its warranty coverage and duration. Omega gives covers 5 years on the frame, 3 years on parts, 3 years labor, 1 year shipping and 90 days in-home service. Omega is well above other manufacturers in this category with its parts and labor. Omega is, however, lower for the in-home service which some have increased to 1 year in-home. Customer service is competent and turnaround time on service is good. Our Rating in this category is 18.

Comfort & Ergonomics: A massage chair needs to be comfortable and fit the body. A massage chair needs to be more useful than just for massage. The Omega Montage Elite is comfortable and the upholstery is well padded and plush. The detachable head pillow is soft and the thickness is appropriate. The Omega Montage Elite comes with a wireless remote control about the size of a credit card for convenience. The foot rest is extendable out 4 inches for much taller people. Incredibly, this massage chair recliner fits people as short as 4' 10" to 6' 6". Our rating in this category is 19.

East of Use: Massage Chair manufacturers are building in more technology and features into their chairs. Users need to be able to quickly, easily and intuitively understand how to use of a product. The Montage Elite has many advanced features and many manual options. The main remote control has 5 auto programs and a wheel button for adjusting the footrest and chair back. This remote is fairly intuitive. The wireless remote is a distilled version of the main remote and is simple in design and allows for virtually all the controls of the massage. The only significant exception is the air pressure on the lower body can only be adjusted from the main remote. Like most main remotes, a side panel contains many manual controls including manual massages and adjustments to the lower body air system. The wireless remote is compact, convenient and now a must have. The Montage Elite is a 19 in Ease of Use.

Key Features: The most prominent features of the Omega Montage Elite are the Footflex reflexology and the Lower Body Traction. The Footflex reflexology foot massage uses airbags to gently hold, squeeze and then release your foot. Additionally, there are airbags for the arch and the heel with reflexology points for total body relaxation. Omega has brought the lower body air massages up to par with the back massage technology. The air compression massage of the lower body is superb. With the Lower Body Traction, let the massage chair stretch out the lower body. The footrest holds onto the feet and raises to the horizontal position. The footrest starts to lower to 3 successive positions. Each position stretches out the lower back, hips, thighs, knees and ankles. You can hear the popping sound now with the Montage Elite massage chair. Our rating in this category is 19.

Massage Therapy: The Montage Elite has 5 full body automatic massages, 4 manual massages, 4 massage speed settings and in a total combination of 64 manual massage courses. The manual massage techniques include the following: Kneading, Tapping, Finger Press, and Kneading & Tapping (Shiatsu). The Kneading and Tapping functions have independent speed controls which allows you to adjust them in combination. The lower body massage is terrific, especially with the lower body traction. Something about being massaged and stretched to relieve those tensions. Relax to the music-massage synchronization function, which will massage you to the tempo of the music. The Montage Elite massage recliner has an arsenal of massage capabilities that will please the most discriminating, simply superb. Our rating in this category is 20.

How does the Omega Massage Montage Elite rate? Overall, our rating of the Montage Elite is an 95/100. The technology, intuitiveness and simplicity of this massage chair recliner is what the luxury category is all about. With Omega, the . Montage Elite has the best manufacturer's warranty without the added expense of an extended warranty. The massage chair is easy to use, has advanced features, a wireless remote and thorough massage therapy. This shiatsu massage chair can accommodate both short and tall people alike. The Montage Elite was built for the American market. This is as good as it gets!

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Sanyo has developed a full line of massage chairs. The entry level Sanyo massage chair is their model SR 1000K. The SR-1000K has some very unique features. It also comes with some features that Sanyo has in some of its luxury models. We will point out some of the more important features and functions and touch on the warranty of the SR1000K massage chair by Sanyo.

The warranty coverage is similar to an insurance policy. You get insurance so that you are not affected by a catastrophe. You want sufficient warranty coverage to protect you from defects in components or workmanship of the massage chair. The warranty for this massage recliner is from Sanyo. Sanyo gives the following coverage for the SR-1000K recliner: 3 years for the roller mechanism, 1 year labor, 1 year parts and 1 year in home service. The Sanyo warranty is the same for all their models. However, for this price range, the warranty is very good.

There are two automatic programs designed in the SR 1000K massage chair. The first program is called Relax and as the name implies, it provides a softer, soothing massage. The second program is named Recovery and it is more like a warm down type of massage. Both of these auto-programs work with the touch of one button.

An intriguing and innovative feature is called the Stiffness Detector. This system using readings of your pulse rate and perspiration levels and correlates those to areas of the body having more tension. The massage chair then focuses the massage treatment to those areas detected. This is a fascinating technology integrated into the SR 1000 massage chair.

Would you enjoy a good leg stretch now and then? In addition to the manual massage techniques, Sanyo has built two different stretches into the chair. You can select the manual massage technique and then select stretch 1 or stretch 2 and the chair will seamlessly integrate the stretching into the massage program.

The SR1000K also comes with a unique leg rest massager. The leg rest can be used to target the following areas: calves, back of the knees, sole of the foot and the Achilles tendon/heal. The leg rest contains a roller mechanism that massages the calves and the back of the knees. You can flip down the unit and then put your feet on it. This allows you to target the soles of your feet for a nice soothing massage. You can vary the speed of the massage and also the direction of the rollers.

There is a remote that runs all the functions of the SR1000. The design is fairly simple and intuitive for first time users. The buttons are a good size and easy for the average user to push. There are little lights that are used to show the level of intensity of the massage and also the roller width.

The SR-1000 massage chair has some very good features for an entry level massage chair. It contains some of the electronics from Sanyo's high end chairs like the stiffness detector and the physical shape sensor. The warranty for this recliner is also good for this level of chair. The design is a little funky and unfortunately Sanyo located a power box on the side of the chair which takes away from its attractiveness. We also wished they had more than 2 automatic massage programs in the recliner. But, if you are looking for a solid massage chair with some fairly contemporary styling, the SR-1000K is a nice massage chair.

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This review will take a look at one of the Panasonic Real Pro Ultra series of massage chairs. The Real Pro Ultra is the current massage recliner series rolled out by Panasonic. We will look at the EP 30004 model. Some say this is the best ergonomic chair on the market for the price. This chair will be reviewed in 5 key categories. Each category can earn up to 20 points for a total possible score of 100 points. We will evaluate the recliner in each of the following categories: Warranty & Customer Service, Comfort/Ergonomics, Ease of Use, Features and Massage Therapy. Let us see how this massage chair rates..

Warranty & Customer Service: With any electronic equipment or big ticket item, warranty protection is critical. Although, most massage chairs are built well, there are occasional problems. In this case, you want to make sure you have adequate protection. The EP 30004 comes with a 3 year parts and 1 year labor warranty from the manufacturer. We find this as fairly short and recommend you consider purchasing an extended warranty if it is offered. Customer service is dependent on the retailer the chair is purchased and is thus highly variable. Panasonic earns a 15 in this category.

Comfort & Ergonomics: To provide relaxation, a massage chair needs to be comfortable to sit in. Also, the design of the chair must be ergonomic, so you do not have to struggle to make adjustments with the chair. The Real Pro Ultra has soft padded armrests. The head pillow can be adjusted for each user and is also detachable. The chair back and seat are plush when seated. The leg ottoman can be adjusted up to 5 inches of additional extension. The controls are located in easy and accessible areas. The EP-30004 is well designed for comfort and ergonomics. We rate this recliner an 18 in this category.

Ease of Use: We are seeing an increasing amount to features being built into massage chairs. This is a very positive and beneficial development. The other side of this is being able to keep the control simple and easy to use. Panasonic has a good understanding of this dilemma and includes a voice guidance system built into the remote. If you need help with running a certain aspect of the chair, then the voice guidance is there to walk you through the steps. Otherwise, the controller comes with one touch automatic programs. It has an LCD showing what massage functions are running in the chair. There are a myriad of manual programming options which are fairly simple to use. We like this controller and its layout. We rate this chair a 19 for ease of use.

Key Features: The important features of the Panasonic EP-30004 are the Junetsu massage and the shoulder/arm stretch. Panasonic has developed the Junetsu style massage in the Real Pro Ultra. The Junetsu is an ultra fine kneading massage. This uses small circular motions that penetrate deeply through the muscles for a soothing massage therapy. Panasonic has developed a novel shoulder stretch in the EP 30004. The arm rest has padded covers that lift up, where the hands and arms can be placed inside. The airbags then activate to which hold the arms. The chair back then reclines slightly to extend the arms and shoulders. This slow, gradual stretch helps to elongate the muscles of the arms and shoulders. This stretch helps to remove tension from the muscles and increase the range of motion. Overall Rating for the Panasonic Real Pro Ultra for features is 19.

Massage Therapy: This massage chair comes with five automatic courses. It includes a Body Scan which is also customizable. Ultra-fine kneading or Junetsu has been introduced to the full complement of Quad-style massage techniques, including Shiatsu, Swedish, fist kneading, and grasping. Between the automatic and the manual functions there are up to 372 combinations of techniques available in this recliner. There are reflexology pads built into the foot wells that pinpoint areas that will instantly increase blood flow and energy throughout your body. These plates are adjustable and removable. You also have both a lower body stretch and the shoulder stretch. This chair has a virtual arsenal of massage techniques to cater to your every need. We score the massage therapy of this chair a 19.

We score the overall rating of the EP 30004 as a 90/100. This Real Pro Ultra series lounger is a solid and well built massage recliner. It has some new and innovative features such as the shoulder stretch and the Junetsu massage. It provides comprehensive and thorough full body massage capability. We have to say we are still disappointed with Panasonic's lack of design aesthetics. The chair just has a very industrial look which unfortunately continues to be their trademark look. The warranty is a bit light and an extended warranty should be considered for adequate protection. This is definitely one of the best massage chairs in its class and if you are looking for one, then check this one out.

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