Hello my name is Joe from Illinois and I am new to smoking and have never spent more than $100 on any grill I have owned so this was a big purchase for me. Running the kids to sporting events I was looking for a somewhat "set it and forget it" smoker so after a day at the ball fields we could come home to some great barbeque. I also wanted a direct heat option too utilize after work for steaks, burgers, and dogs. Hopefully the LG900 accomplishes this. Should be here next week, need to start planning my first cook.