Two words: Ultimate Convenience. Sure, you could make coffee just as good with an E61 HX for 25% of the cost of the GS3. But you'll have to sweat a lot more.
Positive Product Points
- Double boiler: steam and brew at the same time means my time to make 2 lattes has dropped from 12 min with Andreja/Mazzer Mini to 5 min with GS/3 +Macap M7D - Consistent quality of shots without fiddling around. All my shots are between good and great. No more sink shots. Pre-infusion + stable temp make pulling a good shot easier than on a super-auto. - Plumbed in with water filters. Change filters once a year and be done with it. - Beautiful. - Steaming with burn-me wand is straightforward. I get perfect microfoam every time. - Paddle gives you a manual connection to shot making. - Shot timer. Silly little thing but I look at tit for every shot. - Could not imagine wanting another machine. Perfect for my needs. 4 shots in the morning on weekdays, more on weekends.
Negative Product Points
- Like all machines, you have to be ready to open up the beast and work on the machine once in a while. - In 2 years 3 months, I have had to change the valve for the hot water tap (at 3 month) and the O-rings for the group head and the vacuum breaker. The group head service was not a walk in the park but there is an excellent video from LM USA to guide you.
Detailed Commentary
I will use this section to comment on the vendor as most of what I had to say about the machine is mentioned above. The service at Chris Coffee is second to none. Every time I have had an issue with the machine, the techs have responded to my emails within less than 24 hours and shipped parts and tools right away. This includes, valves, O-ring kits, tools. Just last week, they sent me the full O-ring kit to rebuild the grouphead with UPS 2-day at no charge. Had I ordered from LM USA, I would have been at least $50 out of pocket.
Their techs (Roger and Jason) are outstanding. They know everything about the machines they sell and send you pictures and diagrams to guide you through.
My past experiences with the Andreja (also purchased from Chris Coffee) have been identical. Even 5 years after purchase, I would get instant replies to help me diagnose issues.
I won't need a new machine for a long time but when I do, I will get it from Chris Coffee.
Buying Experience
I never post reviews. Just don't have time. But I feel so strongly about this machine and this vendor that I had to let it out.
