Four Star Machine for Less Bucks - not bad if your on a budget
Positive Product Points
I like this machine because it is simple to use...almost too simple. It produces great shots and very hot coffee. The shots are consistent and the machine is built well. I like the fact that there are no hoses attached to the water tank and everything is self contained. The machine has a small footprint and is fairly quiet. Its a great deal for the money if your on a budget like I am. I bought it refurbished and have had no problems thus far. I use it everyday.
Negative Product Points
Yeah...well Krups could have done a better job with the milk frother but then again, its a low budget machine and one just has to know how to aireate the milk properly.
Detailed Commentary
Thats about it. Don't pay full price for this machine...$70.00 is as about as high I would go. So if you looking on ebay..keep this in mind. The machine is a simple 15 bar pump machine but well made. The portafilter is well constructed and I like the fact that there are three different portafilter interchangeable parts - double shot, single and pod. I tried them all and the work well. The machine makes very hot coffee, has a small footprint so it doesn't take alot of counter space. Has solid construction and is all self contained. The steaming wand and frother needs improvements, too simple and no real control over steam volume. If your looking for a machine that has a good steam wand set up..well by pass this one. However if you drink doppio's or americano's then this machine is for you. There is very little wait time for the machine to heat up and one can make mulitple drinks fairly quickly without compromising quality of beverage. Shots come out smooth with good crema...but alot of that has to do with coffee bean rather then machine. Overall a good buy and I am happy with my purchase.
Buying Experience
Good...after all you never know what you'll find at Big Lots. This was a surprize.