Easy for the non-geek to use to make great espresso and latte, consistently, and with only a small learning curve.
Positive Product Points
Makes great espresso and latte. Both my wife and I find it easy to use.
Negative Product Points
The manual seems to come in two parts, and some part(s) I think I even had to download. Things could have been a little clearer for setup and first use.
Detailed Commentary
I am in my 50s and wanted an espresso machine that would be easy to use and make GREAT drinks. This fits the bill perfectly! A friend has a Rancilio Silva that makes great drinks as well, but it seemed to me to require too much attention and care in use. I did not want to spend my time mastering the ins and outs of being a home barista -- just wanted consistently good drinks, and I could not be happier with the Spaziale S1.
No muss no fuss. I use it in 15 amp mode -- it does not seem worth having the electrician come out to wire the line for 20 amp, because the machine works just fine on 15 amps in economy mode.
It was fairly easy for me to plumb-in the unit and install the water filter and softener.
Buying Experience
Chris Coffee gave great advice on what to buy -- pros and cons -- and what accessories to get. Just make sure you get enough hose and that you specify that it should be one piece (rather than the standard length plus the additional length as a separate piece). I like the grinder he recommended as well, the Barat Vario. I definitely would use ChrisCoffee again.
Three Month Followup
After 3 months of daily use, the machine is just a dream. It gives consistenly great shots and frothed milk. I don't know how I got by without it.
