great results with a quality grind, cool design, and compact stature
Positive Product Points
fantastic, external finish, simple construction and use, quick heat up, quality espresso if grind is right
Negative Product Points
seems like it drips too much, insists on a correct grind and tamp, would be nice if it frothed a bit quicker, instructions say little about extended care and cleaning
Detailed Commentary
i got this product for $200 u.s., and it now feels like a steal. at first i was using a capresso burr grinder and was lacking consistent and generous crema. my conclusion and initial dissapointment are all sourced to the grinder. it was crap and i will never buy another capresso product. i purchased a solis maestro for christmas and my flat opinion of the x3 has sky rocketed. the crema is consistent and abundant. the taste has improved in strength and quality by 40%. this baby is kicking. i also bought a metal tamper that is heavier and gives me smoother more compact surface in the portafilter. during use and temporarily after use there is much dripping from the brewhead. i guess this is a drawback, although it is a small price to pay for the deal i got from williams sonoma, half price. the foaming aspect is adequate, but takes around a minute and a half to two minutes. a bit more force and heat would be nice. the construction of the machine seems to be extremely durable on the outside. i cannot see the inside, but the results it now produces are very enjoyable. with the right grinder and a good price this machine is hard to beat. at full price one might pursue the gaggia classic, rancilio silvia, or solis machines as well. at $200 and a maestro grinder i am ectstatic. i am now waiting on a roater from sweet marias, long live the bean.
