Well made. Durable. Easy to use. Makes a darned GOOD espresso.
Negative Product Points
The automatic steamer/frother works great, but it takes the fun out of frothing.
Detailed Commentary
I've used this machine on a near daily basis for two years. It makes a very good espresso with a fine crema. The auto frother/steamer (while it takes the fun out of frothing) makes excellent steamed milk and froth.
Provided you read and follow the manufacturer's instructions (especially about CLEANING), you won't really need to step foot in a Starbuck's again. In an entirely unscientific taste test, 6 of 7 coffee drinkers present for dinner in November 2003 rated the espresso "nice-nice" or better.
If you plan to use this machine when entertaining, It's a good idea to purchase extra filter baskets. You'll be pleasantly surprised by Krup's customer service.
