Puts pro features in a stainless, home-scale chassis. Substantial & well-appointed, even in class. For the first time, I feel I have my last machine.
Positive Product Points
Rotary pump
E61 grouphead (actively heated, auto preinfusion)
Clean heat-exchanged brew AND DISPENSER water
Large 2-liter, 2-chamber boiler
Gooseneck wand (traps fluid, reduces milk drawn into boiler)
Plumb-in (pain at first, sweet thereafter)
15" height fits under cabinets
Easy access to innards (4 screws gets top, sides, & back off)
Negative Product Points
Only 1 way out of boiler for water, the wand, implies that solutes will concentrate there. Serious consideration of softening implicit.
Rotary is very quiet, but unit prone to mild buzzes at times (can be treated with nylon washers)
Detailed Commentary
Arrived at the Mininova via 3-step program (Saeco, Gaggia, Wega). Has every commercial feature I sought, quenching upgrade fever. Assuming some experience, actually difficult to botch a shot. Good-size boiler for home, and rare feature of clean water (HE) from dispenser offers other culinary opportunities (tea, soup, pasta). Steam valve has great feel, fine control. Adds a classic café look to the countertop (including badge). Plumbed supply & drain VERY nice luxury. Fun to adjust brew temp & pressure. True 24/7 machine, though I shut off when away or asleep. 2 yr warranty (NA) a big plus.
