For $300 dollars it is a great machine and makes top notch espresso.
Positive Product Points
Easy to use and clean. Front and top access to reservoir (great for location flexibility). Sturdy and built to last. Makes great espresso--great crema--with right grind.
Negative Product Points
Can be difficult to find the right grind, it must be very fine. Must be cleaned quite regularly. Can only produce two shots at a time.
Detailed Commentary
The gaggia coffee, I have the regular non-deluxe, is all I hoped and expected it to be. Being used to a regular steam wand (one without the foaming contraption) the foamer took some getting used to but with some trial and error, it is manageable. At first I could not avoid getting substantial foam, well produces--some would love it. Avoiding the dense foam was my issue.
The grind is difficult to get right. All store bought fine grinds were not fine enough. This includes Lavazza, Illy and others. Grinders that do not work in gradations might not suffice. The grind needs to be just shy of turkish to get a good shot.
The machine is very well built with a commercial portafilter and no plastic parts aside from the reservoir (and the foaming contraption). The reservoir holds plenty of water too. It heats quickly and shots are a perfect temp. for drinking right after pulling. The warming tray may not heat up instantly but does heat up adequately after about 5 mins. The steam is very powerful and it has a removable spill tray.
For $300 dollars it is a great machine and makes top notch espresso.
Buying Experience
Whole Latte Love was great. No hassle, no delay, well packed and delivered product at the lowest going price. It also came with four packets of coffee (although some was just expired--but it was also vacuum packed so it doesn't seem to matter too much). The coffee was just thrown in anyway, though, so not a reason to complain.
