Save you time in searching and money, strongly recommend this high quality and true value prosumer espresso machine to anyone. You won't fine a better one.
Positive Product Points
High quality- all SS and chromed outside
HX boiler- no wait time between making espresso and making frothy milk
E61 Brewing group head makes better espresso
Only 15" in height, fits well on any kitchen countertop.
Easy to operate and clean.
Excellent espresso
Frothy milk with high temp steam, less water mixed in the milk, for better taste latte and capp.
Negative Product Points
There is no instruction on operation. For beginner, it is a must have to avoid confusion. When first turned on the power switch, the machine makes huge noise, and lasted for 30 sec. The noise is caused by the machine pumping water from the tank into the boiler. It seems like there is a pressure switch under the water tank. I guess when the tank is empty, the machine would not operate thus damaging the boiler.
Filling the water tank is a little bit inconvenient if it is placed on the counter with cabinet on top. It is also hard to see the water level.
Detailed Commentary
Ordered the machine from 1st-line a week ago after intensive searching and comparison, and received the shipment by UPS Ground yesterday at free of charge, on time. It is love at the first sight. I have owned a Rancilio Silvia for the last 10 yrs, and pretty familiar to the semi espresso machine. The La Nuova Era Cuadra Commercial Espresso is far more better than the Silvia for only $400 more. Already making perfect espresso only after two tries on the preparation, grinding the coffee, tampering pressure, and the amount of coffee. I am very happy with the decision to upgrade from the entry level Silvia, and fining the true value and high quality Italy-made machine. It looks like it will last for many, many years to come, and better than the Silvia by more than one par.
The product comes with cleaning solution and wipe for the chrome finished, and it was not expected. Thanks to 1st-Line.
Buying Experience
This is the first time purchasing from 1st-Line, referred by CoffeeGeeks. Very satisfied
