Grunty and industrial, can be worked hard and loves it. Why spend more?
Positive Product Points
Commercial design, generic parts, great steam pressure and extraction power. No useless extras.
Negative Product Points
Large foot print (for its class), best plumbed in, steam wand should be a ball swivel,could increase your coffee bill. Rubbing point under water reservoir can cause corrosion.
Detailed Commentary
This machine is simple and effective. You could spend twice as much and get some more gauges, but no better coffee. I bought my machine second hand on the recommendation of my espresso engineer friend, the quality of the machine and the New Zealand importer were the considerations. After backwashing (filthy) I poured my first shot, five second pour, my sunbeam burr grinder was not quite fine enough, so time for a new mazzer (and a new budget). First mazzer shot, a bit long 35 seconds, dial it up, try again, perfect! This machine handles a tight filter and produces great tasting shots, thick crema you can lay sugar on, overall excellent extraction. The drip tray is simple to clean and large (better than some more expensive competitors), good steam pressure which aerates milk well.
Buying Experience
Bought on Trademe second hand, seller was not a native Engllsh speaker and had a poor description of the goods. Excellent....
