An expensive, high quality machine which I don't think that I would spend $200 to replace.
Positive Product Points
I like the style of the machine and it makes consistently good coffee.
Negative Product Points
The stainless thermal pot does not really keep the coffee very hot even after pre-warming There is a tendency for condensation to drip from the filter cover on the counter. This is not a particularly big deal.
Detailed Commentary
I have owned the above machine for about 3 years. Contray to some report about a slow pour, it is not very difficult. Just turn the top about 1 full furn and it will pour perfectly ok. I agree that a slight spout would have improved the design.
Another negative comment is that the machine does not automatically turn off. This is not quite true as the unit has an internal switch that shuts off the heating unit when the water has drained from the reservoir. If the thermal pot is in place, a small light remains on until you turn the unit completely off.
I recently had opportunity to disassemble my machine after it suddenly stopped working, It was a question of shipping it out for service and the related charges (which I probably would not have done) or attempt to solve the problem. When I took the Moccamaster apart, I was very impressed with the quality of the copper heating unit. It was then that I discover that there is a switch connected to a float in the water reservoir. My problem was the switch was not allowing power to the heating coil. I disassembled the switch, cleaned the contacts and some debris, and then reassembled the unit. So far so good. The part was about $1.00 but the related shipping and service would have been more than the price of a less desireable but serviceable machine.
Others have commented that the pot does not fit under the filter cone with the top on. This is not true. It is a tight fit.
Buying Experience
Boyds was great as a supplier.
Three Month Followup
The repairs that I made on the machine continue to work well. I recently made contact with Boyd's Coffee and noted some of my problems with the Technivorm. They sent me a care package including some descaler and filters. I found their filters to be much better than either Melita or Trader Joe's. The coffee is less bitter. The filter paper is considerably thinner and allows for faster brewing, resulting in hotter coffee. I subsequently sent for more filters and extra descaler. Boyd's indicated that they might start to carry repair parts in the future. Great Service from Boyd's.
