Probably the best price to value ratio I have seen in a home machine.
Positive Product Points
This machine features a heavy porta-filter. It can produce micro-foam. It brews with acceptable temperature and pressure. Easy to use. Actually makes true espresso for a low price.
Negative Product Points
Vibratory pump can not be adjusted for fine-tuning. The thermostat is the same (I think.) I think the pressure is a little high (though that's better than the alternative!) The steam wand is just awful. The housing is flimsy.
Detailed Commentary
I like this little machine, for what it is. The porta-filter is heavy, and feels like it isn't made of cardboard. This is not a commercial machine, but it is good. The price is great. I can't think of a better example of a machine for home use that offers such and impressive value to price ratio. It can make drinkable espresso and milk foam. Unless I wanted to spend two thousand dollars or more on a machine, this would probably be my home machine of choice. The steam wand on these Gaggias (gaggi?) are an insult to the intelligence of the owner. I don't think that I would buy the more expensive models, because of the Silva and because this machine does what I want for a great price. I would rather buy this machine than anything under one thousand dollars, just because of the cost vs. value ratio.
Buying Experience
I bought it from ebay. It was fine.
Three Month Followup
At this point I didn't know what to think of this machine, but my enthusiasm had waned a bit.
One Year Followup
I have had this machine for well over a year, and now I am sick to death of it. The only reason to own a low end home machine is if nobody in your area is making decent espresso. If you are serious about espresso, you need a machine that lets you adjust the temperature and pressure. I feel that I have really learned how to make this machine dance for me, but it just isn't good enough.
