Kitchenaid Cooks Series

Need help picking a kitchenaid mixer?

So I think it's time for me to add a kitchenaid mixer to my arsenal of kitchen stuff. Not something I plan on using 24-7, but will be thankful to have it when I need it. Anyway I usually cook for 2-4 people. On some occasions 6-8 people. I plan on using the mixer to make pizza dough, mash potatoes, and maybe some fresh pasta...so maybe whipping it out 1-2 times a month. My girlfriend might use it around the same frequency to make cakes, cookies, and I'm sure we might experiment making bread every now and then.
Anyway, what size & power would you recommend? Artisan, Classic, Accolade, Professional series? what are the pros and cons of using the different bowl loading types? I understand this is one of those purchases that typically lasts forever so I wanna make the right choice...all help is greatly appreciated. Thank You.
~G

We bought the Heavy Duty 5 qt stand mixer, and got the extended warranty. We've had a Kitchen Aid mixer for over 10 years but twice we had a problem with the gears grinding (our fault, we should have had a 6 qt the way my son likes to make pizza!). Because we got the warranty, Kitchen Aid sent us a NEW mixer both times. This last time, they upgraded us to a 6 qt Professional because it was the only one they could find in the Cobalt Blue that I wanted.
I would recommend either the 5 or 6 qt Professional if you are going to make pizza or bread on a regular basis; and don't forget that warranty! It is one of the best purchases we ever made. We also got the meat grinder attachment which has come in handy on several occasions. The mixer is one of the best purchases we have ever made.

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