The Alexia with a PID is a perfect machine for someone who mostly drinks esporess.
Positive Product Points
E61 and PID
Negative Product Points
If you make a lot of milk drinks, this may not be the best machine for you.
Detailed Commentary
I ordered the Alexia with a PID installed by Chris Coffee Service. When I took it out of the box, I was amazed by the craftsmanship. The machine has attractive lines, the material gleams, and it's beautiful to look at. (The water tank cover had some slightly sharp edges, but that's been addressed in the new model.) Fortunately, with a little attention, it's easy to keep the machine looking great.
The best part of the machine, though, is it's ability to produce great espresso. The combination of the E61 and a PID makes it easy for me to get consistent results. My past few machines have left me wanting something more, but not this one. I'm getting professional-level resutls.
Steaming milk is also easy, though if you make a lot of milk drinks, you may want to consider a HX machine.
Overall, I found the Alexia to be a nice upgrade from the Silvia.
Buying Experience
I called Chris Coffee Service with the intention of buying a different machine. The customer service rep took the time to talk to me, answered my questions, and ultimately suggested that the Alexia might be a better fit for what I was looking for. (For whatever it may be worth, the machine I was originally going to buy cost more.) She was right -- the machine is perfect for me. I called a couple of times after purchase, and always got fast and friendly advice. I would definitely buy from them again.
