I recommend this machine to just about anyone and for a person who can't plumb in now but plans to at a later date... it's killer!
Positive Product Points
- This machine (mine is an Andreja Premium) is very easy to use with the only slightly tricky bit being temperature control via an empty pull or "flush" and some timing. It been solid despite much use and is easy to clean, easy to use, and most importantly it makes coffee that is easy to drink given the right coffee. - Looks great - Solid shot after shot performance - Warms up quickly
Negative Product Points
- Temperature control would be nice but in this price range the machine is heard to beat.
Detailed Commentary
No burn wands are worth more to me than I thought and rotary valves are quite awesome too. The steam wand has four holes on this machine and lots of power. I find it best not to dial it on full or my milk heats a bit too quickly which makes the bubbles pop and my latte art sort of wilts. Dial it back a bit and all is good.
The outside of the machine is really pretty and the rounded curves have a finished look that puts this little guy in a higher class. Doesn't change your espresso one little bit but sure does add to the wet bar looks. I wonder if it makes people think the espresso will be extra good. ;)
I rarely hit the low water alarm but it's loud. I presume this is so one can hear it while the machine is running (pulling or steaming) but once all that noise shuts down the sound is quite loud.
Buying Experience
Chris' Coffee was awesome to deal with on the purchase of this machine and continues to be so. They really do care about you as a customer and do things right. I find this very refreshing given many of my retail and commercial vendor relationships. I decided the Mini Mazzer was messy and slow to adjust between French Press and espresso grinds and picked up a Barat Vario grinder from them too because my experience with this machine was so good.
