We are looking to buy a new machine and are looking at any available option. This is not for extremely special applications but regular RT-PCR, but we are interested in a device which is extremely reliable and will not break down after a few years (I've had issues with one company despite a reputable brand for quite a few devices from them).
Which one would you buy if you had the free choice?
Ulrike, I have always had very good luck with Bio-Rad. I surely hope that isn't the company you have had issues with.
Scott
Most reputable companies that you are already likely purchasing from will design robust machines. Remember, it's also how people treat these machines, and regular maintance.
We've been using the Bio-Rad CFX-96 system because we utlize their PCR reagents ranging from the PCR premixes to their plastic consumables which have been optimised for this system. I've had the CFX machine malfunction but with the extensive usage of that machine it was bound to happen. Regardless of the painful experience and delay as a result of this malfunction, I was satisfied with the CFX-96 as it was out of Bio-Rads control. I've also found the Bio-Rad interface to be user friendly and intuitive. The data analysis software it came with was also good.
You should contact company reps and see if they can give you a packaged deal. A colleague of mine was able to get a great deal of discount on PCR consumables upon the purchase of the PCR machine.
If you will do many assays, I would recommend Roche LC480 with 384-well block. You will save lots of time by doing up to 384 reactions in one run on. Additionally you will save on qPCR mixes/primers/probes because of using 10ul reactions instead of 20-25ul. Also keep in mind that the price of 96-well and 384-well plates are the same.
For less runs and occasional use I would go for Rotor-gene.
-Look for local support and technical service
-Check for reagent and consumable discounts when bundled with a new device
I personally do like the Rotorgene for research applications but wouldn't pick it for diagnostic use...
Bio-Rad wouldn't be my first choice, as had very bad experience with reliability of a plain PCR machine due to repeated block failures. However, that was a machine that was quite old, and they did buy MJ Research since then, so may be significantly better now.
I suggest you contact the reps and arrange to test your two/three finalists before making a decision. The company response alone should help you in your decision.
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