I have an oster, it's ok. tons of recipies will come in the booklet w/ your machine. for very soft bread you need flour w/lots of Gluten, using cheap white flour will get you a large lump of white rock (not kidding, have done it). My favorite thing to make is the simple basic bread recipie that came in the book w/the maker, then add a bit of fresh crushed rosemary (may be 1/4 cup ish) and powerded garlic (I'd guess 2 tblspoons ish), 4 hrs later when it's finsihed cut then dip in some olive oil and vinegar while still warm... HEAVEN!