Nearly perfect. I highly recommend the Sylvia for anyone who is looking for the best machine under $400
Positive Product Points
The Sylvia makes first-rate espresso, and is a steam machine! It also has a 3-way solenoid valve, which allows the user to backflush the brewhead, and keep things squeeky clean.
Negative Product Points
Minor quibbles: I would prefer a volumetric over vibratory pump. Also, the thing which will eventually get me to upgrade is that the sylvia, like all home machines, uses the same water in the boiler for both brewing and steaming. I want a dual boiler, or heat exchanger system.
Detailed Commentary
Sylvia: ~$400
The Sylvia is absolutely first-rate. You will have to spend $200 more to get any better features on a machine (the ellimatic), and twice as much to seriously improve upon it. Moreover, the features which will get me to upgrade aren‘t available on machines less than a thousand dollars.
