This is the coolest looking espresso machine you'll find in my opinion. Easy to use simple controls. Pump driven machine makes espresso fast.
Negative Product Points
The clock on the front is plastic which is odd because the rest of the machine is very metal and satisfyingly heavy.
It took some time for the water to start moving through the system (to get the air out) when it was new. For a while I thought i was doing something wrong. But eventually it started to flow.
The instructions are very minimalist but at least they are in English unlike some espresso machines I've bought.
Detailed Commentary
My X5 is fire engine red. I found this beauty in the back of Marshall's for $330 below retail.
It's pretty easy to use. It came with some Illy espresso pods... Even though "pods" go against everything I hold sacred (fresh roast, fresh ground, etc.) the convenience factor is significant.
The stream tube seems to work well and the steam is very dry.
The water compartment is easy to remove and keep clean.
The interface is very clean and simple. There's an on-off switch on the back. A large knob for the steam tube control, and two cool looking unlabled buttons (one for coffee, one for steam). There's also two small lights (power, and ready).
Buying Experience
Marshalls Clearance. Box was labled "refurbished".
