If you're considering a Rancillio or a Gaggia, check out this machine.
Positive Product Points
Very shiny, big heavy portafilter, steam and hot water, quick warm up, 3-way valve.
Negative Product Points
Built in tamp is useless, small water tank, no automatic refill. Froth accessory is useless.
Detailed Commentary
The Le lit is an awesome machine, the exterior is high polish and really nice on any counter. The machine operates very quietly and seems to work very well. The warm up time is very quick and shots pull consistently with even temp and pressure. The three way valve makes removing the portafilter a much more pleasurable experience. The steam accessory is useless though when removed a regular wand is in place and operates very well, with consistent steam. The built in tamp is useless and in the way, The group is 57mm which some people argue isn't as good as a 58mm (standard size) though finding a tamper was not a problem at all, and shot quality seems to be unaffected. The water tank is small, though adequate, and a larger one will fit in its place.
Refill the boiler after using steam and upon starting the machine. This can be a pain to remember sometimes, though it is very important to avoid burning out the heating elements. Easy to do though just run hot water for 3 sec, or pull a shot.
The cup warmer isn't going to really heat your cups, though it does do more than most machines and there is plenty of room.
For its price, you cannot get a better machine, in fact I would say this machine competes with machines in the next price tier easily.
Buying Experience
I received this as a gift, though it did come with a free pound of fresh roast from Clive Coffee.
