This coffee machine seemed the answer to my quest for an office coffee solution: (1) it is sleek, (2) using pods, preparation is quick and mess-free, (3) it is affordable, (4) at 20-25 cents per cup, operating costs are quite low, and (5) Philips is a well-known brand.
The problem is that the coffee it makes is simply terrible. The simplest cone filter with medium-priced coffee is infinitely better.
Unlike espresso machines, you have limited control over the process: You can only select among a couple of blends, you can decide whether to use one or two pods at a time, and you can vary the amount of water by stopping the machine before it's done. That's it. Since I've played with these parameters for quite a while, I know that it simply cannot be improved! I've tried all the roasts offered by Douwe Egberts, plus a couple that I bought at the Coffee Giant (slightly better). I used more/less water, one/two pods. To no avail! The fake "crema" makes it look attractive, but the coffee is simply horrid.
I've seen reviews giving it high marks for taste, and I am simply speechless. American coffee connaisseurs must feel relieved that Europeans, who often mock American coffee (not entirely without a reason) are capable of producing such rubbish.
Buying Experience
Costco is a great place to buy. Too bad I waited too long (and threw out the packaging), so now I can't get rid of it.
