This machine is gorgeous.  My friends call it the "Red October" because, with the toggle-switches and dials, it looks like a vintage Russian sub.  Chromed-out, utilitarian looks that seem real, not kitschy like some other vintage-look machines.  A real property-value raiser.

This thing is loud and a bit leaky.  Perhaps that's where the Russian sub analogy is appropriate.  Also, if I weren't so smitten with the Isomac's looks, I may have gotten the Silvia, for the pro-quality solenoid.  Takes lots of practice and juuuuust the right grind to get a great shot, and still it's hit or miss.  Also, no option for those who want to use pods.

I have no regrets about this purchase.  Knock on wood, the thing has run solidly and dependably since I cracked open the box.  And since I cracked open the box, I've been getting compliments on it - both in terms of the looks and the coffee.  Then again, it would be nice to have the option to use pods every once in a while.  I keep reading about the quality and cleanliness of the pods, but have no way to check it out.  So I keep fretting about the right grind and tamping weight.  And, again, I'm not 100%.

1st Line is fantastic.  Fortunately, I haven't had to see how they are in terms of a return or service because the machine has been solid.  But in the purchasing area, they were fantastic, nice and the machine got to my house in perfect shape.  I would use them again and probably will.