Very good automatic machine that is user friendly.
Positive Product Points
This is a short review for an AUTOMATIC comercial Carimali (F 11 LM, not the semi automatic as shown on the picture). This machine is a breeze to use, it is fast and mostly reliable. Can make a very decent ritretto shot after shot.
Negative Product Points
Build and finish of the machine could be better
Detailed Commentary
Good: Very easy to use. Quick start up time. Consistent. Can pull a good espresso (but... see Bad section). No hardcore training necessary for your staff. Push a button and get a good shot. Can handle medium-high trafic all day long. Steam wand makes very nice microfoam and is easy to get use to. Minimum day-to-day care (but, see Bad section).
Bad: Build and finish of the machine could be better : internal parts (grinder) tends to loosen itself after some time, which will need to be readjusted. The machine is very strangely built. In result, you will have to tear and unscrew a lots of parts to gain access to the internal grinder. Such a crucial piece should have been made more accessible. Piston tends to get obstructed if not regularly cleaned. If not cleaned could damage pump. Used coffee receptacle will stop all operation if full so make sure to empty every now and then. Then again rceptacle can only be removed if machine is not operating (between 2 shots). Uses of hot water wand is "exclusive" and will not function if while steaming or brewing. Can pull a good espresso but uponmy taste could not match any commercial semi-auto.
In brief If your looking for a user friendly machine this machine will serve you well. It can handle a lots of traffic but is limited by its one and only "group". If you are in a very very busy area (could have to serve more then 100 clients in an hour or so) buying the double group is a must.
Other : This machine offer a variety of auto-cappcino and milk froathing but I never use those functions and prefer to microfoam myself.
