Nesco FD-61 Snackmaster
The Nesco FD-61 Snackmaster Encore Dehydrator and Jerky Maker is a mid-tier dehydrator that is a good beginner unit. The airflow/heat is located on top of the unit which provides for a much easier cleaning experience since any juices or moisture fall to the bottom plastic shelf. However, since hot air rises, there have been comments that the top shelves result in somewhat dryer food than the bottom shelves.

Based on the product satisfaction ratings and the product features, you might consider purchasing the lower end Nesco model FD-35 for about $10 less or moving up to the FD-75PR for about $15 more.

Accessories
This model includes 4 drying trays, 1 fruit roll sheet, 2 original spice & cure packs and a 52 page care/use guide.

The Nesco Product Line
Nesco has been making food dehydrators for over 30 years and their tagline is "The Best Food Dehydrators in the World". The majority of the Nesco dehydrators have the following features:

• Circular, stackable tray design versus square/rectangular design. This allows for many of the units to have additional trays added. However, since each tray has a hole in the middle to accommodate for airflow it can make it difficult to dry large items such as bread or tall items since the trays range from 0.5 to 2.5 inches in height.
• Vertical airflow versus horizontal airflow - Patented Converga-Flow® fan forces heated air up or down (depending on whether the fan is located on the top or bottom of the unit) the exterior pressurized chamber, then horizontally across each individual tray, converging in the center, for fast, even and nutritious drying. No flavor mixing! No need for tray rotation.
• Vita-Save® Exterior - The opaque exterior blocks light to retain more of the food's nutrients and vitamins during the drying process.
• Dishwasher safe trays (if you wash them on the top rack and remove them prior to the drying cycle)