If you're willing to put in a little time getting the perfect combination of grind and tamp, this machine will give you consistently great shots, and have you drinking a cappuccino in no time.
Positive Product Points
Great steaming = fast, good micro-foam, no burned milk, just a good experience etc Water reservoir capacity is superb Pressure gauge is very helpful Love the switches and lighting system Nice, large drip tray Cup warming tray is a nice feature Extremely sturdy portafilter Looks great on the counter Great espresso!
Negative Product Points
Steep learning curve Steaming wand hard to clean After steaming, water comes out so hot that it can be out of control
Detailed Commentary
I got this machine a week ago. The box was humongous! but I guess I'm glad that it was so well protected. Box in a box, with lots of padding in the second box around it. It is a gorgeous machine. It was hard to get good shots at first, probably because of my low-quality grinder. However, even with an inconsistent grind, I'm now getting consistently yummy shots, with nice rich, tiger-striped crema. I just spent an hour or so getting my grind and tamp down, and now the shots are great! Frothing is a pleasure, as I can get the milk up to 160 degrees in about a half a minute or less. Microfoam is easy as well. The water comes out of the steam tip, and it is a nice touch. However, when the boiler reaches the top of its cycle, the water can come out 'crazily' and can get out of control. The portafilter (as well as the rest of the machine) is sturdily built. It is a pleasure to use, and I highly recommend it.
Buying Experience
I bought the machine from 1st-line equipment, and it was great. They have a nice buyer guarantee system, and they sent all the correct emails and such.
