This review evaluates the Panasonic EP-1273KL shiatsu massage chair. Panasonic offers a full range of massage chairs and is known for its electronics division. Panasonic is known for its quality and its solid state electronics. The Panasonic EP-1273KL is a midrange model in the $2,000 to $3,000 price range. This review will point out some of the advanced features of this shiatsu massage chair.

The massage chair industry is an interesting group of companies. There are giant conglomerates like Panasonic and Sanyo; and others more industry specific like Omega and Human Touch. And like weeds in many gardens, a lot of companies peddling junk which you need to avoid. A good hurdle to pass is to see if the company has retail distribution. With Panasonic there is not need to worry as they will back up their warranty.

Out of the box warranty coverage for the EP-1273KL massage chair is basic by industry standards. Of course for additional expense, you may and should purchase the extended warranty which will bring you up to other manufacturers standard coverage. Without the extended warranty, Panasonic covers has very basic coverage. The EP 1273 is covered with 1 year parts, 1 Year shipping, 1 year labor, and 1 year in-home technician service.

The Panasonic EP-1273KL shiatsu massage chair uses interesting design aesthetics. There is a distinct modern, industrial look to their product line. The design comes with comfortable armrests which are pleasant to the touch. The back pads and pillows are well designed and outfitted for long term use. There is a designer touch with some platinum colors front and back of the chair base. The chair is relaxing to rest on.

The Panasonics Swede-Atsu massage replicates the hands of a master masseuse. The sophisticated movements of fingers, thumbs and palm have been imitated in the Panasonic arsenal of massage chairs. Choose from 8 massage techniques which include Hawaiian, Shiatsu and Swedish to find the relief that is right for you. 3 manual courses let you choose specific target areas in your back. 15 minute timed auto programs include the following: Deep, Gentle, Shiatsu and Refresh

The Panasonic EP-1273KL massage chair comes equipped with a dual-use air ottoman system. The air system in the ottoman kneads and loosens the calves. If the ottoman is raised, the feet can be placed on the area for the calves with the knees bent for a soothing foot massage. The ottoman also has a stretch functions, which will at first raise, then lower in 20 degree increments to stretch out the lower body.

The EP-1273KL massage chair by Panasonic is a good value for its class. It provides a strong and thorough back massage and has a tension relieving lower body massage. One of the nice features of the Panasonic EP-1273KL is the dual-use ottoman with the built in stretch system. For this price range, there is not a massage chair that will have more than one position of stretch. Only drawback with the ottoman is there is no foot well. The user must bend their knees to position their feet to get a foot massage. Other than that the Panasonic EP-1273KL is a strong contender for shiatsu massage chairs in this mid-range class.