Dual boilers even more convenient than I expected. Excellent pressure. Pulls great shots. Allows for very precise temp control.
Negative Product Points
Expensive. Steam wand connection feels flimsy. Lacks the ability to put a remote switch on it. Lacks ability to plumb in the drip tray.
Detailed Commentary
This machine was an upgrade/replacement for an Isomac Tea that I had run into the ground. My wife drinks a lot of milk-based drinks, so the dual boiler was the main attraction for me.
It took some time to dial the machine in. It allows very fine temperature adjustments. I don't believe that the indicators show the correct absolute temperature, but the adjustments relative to one another work great. I'm using a finer grind than the Tea could push through.
It does take a while to heat up, which makes the lack of any easy remote power switch options a pain. I may break into the main control board to add a remote relay, but that's going to be major surgery.
The machine pulls amazing shots. The crema is thich and luscious. It looks like a miniature Guinness. And since I dialed the machine in, it's been rock solid. I haven't pulled a bad shot in weeks.
The drip tray is easy enough to empty, but the lack of at least a kit to plumb in the drip tray seems like an oversight.
Overall I am quite pleased. It makes great espresso and the dual boilers keep everything at the right temperature for frothing milk at the same time. I would definitely buy this one again.
Buying Experience
I bought this from Chris's Coffee. He gave me an excellent price, allowed me to pick it up in person to save shipping costs, and on top of it all he gave me a tour of his shop. He took a great deal of time with me to make sure I got what I needed and answered all of my questions honestly, even when he didn't know the answers. He even threw in some freebies!
Chris also put a user-accessable switch to go from 15A to 20A operation. Normally you have to disassemble a bunch of panels to get to the jumper to change it. I thought that was a nice touch.
