A great purchase if you need a backup, going on a road trip, or just want a compact affordable latte/cappa maker.
Positive Product Points
A single device to make latte's and cappa's and does a great job at it for being a stovetop. Simple to use, instructions are VERY good. Easy to clean, maintain. Parts are readily available from Bialetti (valves, gaskets, even a handle if you break it).
Negative Product Points
A tad bit pricey (but worth it IMO). Can be difficult to disassemble after brewing (see commentary).
Detailed Commentary
Needed something to tide me over till my Isomac arrives, so I went to Williams Sonoma to get a 4-6 cup stove top espresso maker and I noticed this Mukka Espress by Bialetti. I typically drink latte's and cappa's so this intrigued me, a device to do it all at the same time. The folks that worked there said people that purchased it really liked it, even coming back to buy additional ones for gifts. Now I was not really ready to spend nearly a hundred bucks on a stove top but I felt I could give it a try (WS has a great return policy if you are not satisified). But what really sold me was when they said they tried it out and didn't have the valve on tight and it blew right off....oh yeah, a stove top with punch.
I must say this little device not only makes decent cappa's (for a stove top) but it's actually kind of fun to use too. I highly recommend it to someone that needs something to tide em over, wants something small for travel, or just wants a backup. Again, it is pricey for a stovetop but if you got a few extra bucks to spend I think it's worth it.
Read the instructions though, very important. They are good too, easy to understand and follow, I had no problems quickly getting up to speed using this device.
If you have problems disassembling the device for cleaning after use... After brewing, if you did in fact screw down tightly you might find it very difficult to unscrew. Release and remove the valve, this will release pressure in the pot and will make taking it apart much easier.
Some thoughts on maintenance... Also I heard some people saying that it would stop brewing after awhile, the resolution was the valve was clogged. Running hot water through it (from the bottom and you should see the water eject through the stem) after EACH use, on top of removing the gasket and filter, etc. will help extend the life of the product and ensure even taste brew to brew.
Enjoy!
Buying Experience
Williams Sonoma has a great return policy and the people there have always been very friendly. I like how you can "try out" many things that they sell, and if you are lucky you will be there when they are cooking and can do some taste testing!
