I was looking for a cheap ( less than $400.00) espresso machine and after much research I was still undecided. Then I found the Starbucks Athena on EBAY and got it new for $250.00. I think I got the best deal for my bucks by doing this. So far I have had no trouble with this machine. I roast my own coffee and I believe that my espresso's are much better than anything I can buy in the local coffee shop. I would buy this machine for the full price if I had to do it all over again. If you are looking for a great machine in this price range then I believe you can't go wrong with the Athena. Because I bought it on EBAY it didn't have a warrenty but when I needed a new gasket I called Starbucks and they mailed one to me in 3 days at no cost to me. Can't beat that.
