I highly recommend this user-friendly machine for those who don't mind missing out on the joy of going through the process of tamping, grinding, etc...
Positive Product Points
Ease of daily use
Quick to heat up
Descaling proceedure is easy to follow
Grinder and grinder settings work great
Customer service at Delonghi is outstanding
Negative Product Points
Milk frother needs modifications for microfoam
Pretty large and takes up quite a bit of counter space
Buy only at a discounted price of less than 400 now
Detailed Commentary
I've had my machine for well over 6 years now and it continues to work great! I would not have paid 1,000 for it, but got it at a close out sale from a local Starbucks owner. This is an excellent machine. Similar to other posts, I would agree that customer service at Delonghi was excellent. I called a few times over the years for parts and questions. They were very patient and helpful. It may take some time to get the grinder adjustments where you want them. You can set the timer for the morning and have your cups ready to go on the warmer above. Very simple and great results. The only problem I have had is with the steamer wand. If you take off the large attachment, you can learn to do a pretty good job getting the proper texture for your milk. However, in this mode the wand will sometimes shoot off into the pitcher and scare the daylights out of you. Milk can shoot everywhere. There is a gasket kit you can purchase to tighten things up. I recommend that you don't leave the old pods inside the container very long. They will attact mold. It probably should be emptied and cleaned every couple of days.
Buying Experience
Years ago, I ran into a Starbucks manager who I knew. They had a slightly used demo model and she sold it to me for a great price. I see thim on e-bay for less than 400.
