This machine gets very close to realizing what the grower and roaster envisioned in your cup.
Positive Product Points
Clean, Simple Design. No whistles and bells that you don't need. Gets the water hot fast. Makes great coffee.
Negative Product Points
Thermal Carafe is not "brew through." Carafe capacity larger than reservoir. Carafe pours oddly. Large east- west footprint.
Detailed Commentary
This machine flat out makes great coffee. I have brewed everything from $44 a pound small lot from Stumptown, to Dunkin' Donuts Whole bean, and every cup is smooth and delicious (although some more than others obviously). I have brewed identical side by side tests with the old Krups machine this replaced and there is no comparison.
Although pricey, because the heating element is made of copper, it should last a lifetime, even with heavy use. It is also faster than most machines, reducing brew time and minimizing steep time to near optimal.
Based on the recommendations from Joe at Storehouse Coffee (who roasts some great coffee) , I leave the pour through closed until the grounds are thoroughly wetted and I have given them a good stir. Then I open it to the halfway mark for most of the brewing time, opening it all the way when it gets to the two cup level in the reservoir.
Bottom line- if you like filter coffee, this is a great investment. Putting expensive coffee through a cheap machine is a waste of money.
Buying Experience
I bought from Storehouse Coffee and HIGHLY recommend you do the same. Technivorm does not allow discounting so Joe throws in shipping and a bag of coffee for free- I got his outstanding Doi Chang Piko's Peaberry- and provides excellent service. Fast shipping and a very personal touch. I highly recommend Storehouse Coffee.
