A well crafted, good looking, reasonably priced machine that despite an apparently ubiquitous early fault (rapidly repaired) produces excellent espresso.
Positive Product Points
- Very stylish - Reproducibly good espresso with crema - Functional hot plate - Easy to clean - Excellent customer service
Negative Product Points
- Early button trouble required repair - Water tank fiddly to remove and replace
Detailed Commentary
As a coffee-making novice prior to purchasing this machine, I was looking for a reliable brand at a good price. The Cubika did not disappoint and I was producing excellent coffee from the outset.
The Machine
Everyone who passes through the kitchen comments on the Cubika. The simple, slick design is eye-catching yet unobtrusive and the metalwork gives it a substantial feel, betraying the cost. I haven’t made much use of the steam facility as I’m fast becoming a hardened espresso addict.
The Accessories
The Cubika comes with a filter holder, single and double filters, a measuring spoon and a double-ended plastic tamper. As Mike Brown mentions in his review, ‘the instruction book mentions an optional "perfect cream" device - this is not supplied with the machine’.
The Coffee
A+. Once you have found the roast for you, the Cubika ensures it is transformed into an exceptional espresso. I always get a thick crema (using various Lavazza coffees – I simply do not have the time a true cognoscente would set aside to grow the coffee beans in my allotment!) and the espresso emerges at a good temperature.
Problems?
My state of bliss was interrupted 3 months after purchasing the Cubika when the on/off button jammed in the off position. I contacted Gaggia who did not seem surprised (Mike Brown mentions a similar problem in his review). They arranged for the machine to be picked up at their expense and had it repaired and returned within a fortnight. The machine has functioned reliably thereafter.
The water tank is a real nightmare to remove and replace because of the position of the steam wand so I tend to remove stagnant water by simply letting it run through the machine.
The Conclusion
A very pleasing first foray into the world of coffee-making.
Buying Experience
I purchased the item from Rackhams and took it home the same day. They added some ground coffee as well as whole beans for free. I deal directly with Gaggia for maintenance issues. Their service has been exemplary.
Three Month Followup
Still going strong and now that I've added a grinder (Dualit Grinder) and found a reliable blend (Whittard's Guatemalan Elephant), I'm en route to espresso heaven.
