The focus of this product review is one of the massage chairs from the Real Pro Elite line from Panasonic. The Real Pro Elite represents a cohesive approach to consistent massage therapy techniques and mechanisms in each recliner. We will take an in depth look at the EP 1272 model.
The warranty protection is critical on big ticket items such as massage chairs. You want to make sure you have adequate protection down the road, regardless of brand. The EP 1272 comes with 3 years parts and 1 year labor. Service for repair is through an authorized dealer. This may be convenient for Panasonic, but not for the owner of a 200 lb. massage chair. They now offer in home service, but this service is not included.
Let’s look at some of the more important features of this shiatsu recliner. There are many therapeutic massage functions incorporated into this model. There are 4 automatic massage programs, 8 manual massage programs, and 3 manual back massage courses. There are also lower body air massage capabilities for the calves and feet.
The 4 automatic programs include: shiatsu, Swedish, stretch and quick. Shiatsu provides overall stimulation of the back, neck and shoulders utilizing the soft shiatsu, deep rubbing and tapping actions. Swedish provides overall loosening of the muscles in the back, neck and shoulders using longer strokes, circular motions and rhythmic actions. Stretch provides overall stretching of the back muscles using the rolling, pressing, shiatsu and kneading massages. Quick provides loosening of the back, neck and shoulders using rhythmic actions, circular motions, squeezing and tapping.
With the EP-1272, there are 8 manual massage techniques for a tremendous variety of options for your massage therapy needs. The Real Pro Elite series features the following massages: Swedish, Hawaiian, soft shiatsu, tapping, regional rolling and full rolling. We particularly like the Hawaiian massage which loosens up the back muscles and also provides deeper penetration. Got tight shoulders, try the kneading massage to relieve the tension. The compression massage is great to provide overall relief and to help your full body relax. This massage recliner has some sensational massage therapies.
The leg rest has a dual purpose massage. It can be used to massage the calves or the feet. If you place your legs into the leg rest, then it will target your calves. To massage your feet, the leg rest must be raised more horizontal and you must bend your knees to place your feet in. The leg rest provides an air compression massage. This is accomplished by energizing airbags built into the leg rest. They provide a gentle or firm squeeze, hold and release massage. This is particularly effective to relieve tight, sore or aching muscles in the calves and feet.
The remote control is well designed. It is both simple and easy to understand and to use. Select from the 4 one touch auto programs for immediate full body massage therapy. The side panel contains the 8 manual massage programs. Just select the technique for you and select a back course and let it work you over until your troubles are gone. There are adjustments for the massage intensity and the width of the rollers. The control also allows you to pinpoint a specific target area in your back for custom relief.
The EP-1272 is a solid contributor to the Real Pro Elite massage chair line by Panasonic. You have such a wide range of manual massage therapies. You would be hard pressed not to find relief with this machine. Although, the massage chair is solidly built, we have to say we are not impressed with the short warranty coverage from Panasonic. They also need to work on the industrial design and make it more aesthetic for the average residence. But on the massage side, the EP-1272 is a solid performer and one of the better values in the mid range massage chair recliner market.
Viewed 70 times by 26 viewers
