The Micro Casa Leva is a top notch unit that produces espresso as beautiful as it's own image.
Positive Product Points
Incredible looks, easy to rebuild, good steam capability, quality espresso, easy to clean
Negative Product Points
drip tray is very small, takes a dedicated routine to produce quality drinks, portofilter holds pressure after lever returns to the top, small PF, takes a while to heat up with a full res.
Detailed Commentary
I fell in love with the looks of this machine when I was in Italy. Once back here in the states, I started my search. I was lucky to find a dealer with this floor model for sale, so I pounced on it for only $750. This machine is my second espresso machine, replacing a La Pavoni pump machine. It will certainly take you a while to get used to using it, but after a few weeks, you will be hooked. I make better espresso here at home than what I can get at 90% of the cafe's here in Ohio. Make sure to use a decent grinder, I started with a Solis Maestro (ok) and upgraded to my current Rocky. Also, use fresh beans. I home roast, and my epsresso produces twice as much crema and bittersweet cocoa flavors than any store bought beans.
Maintenance is easy, just pop out the dispersion screen, basket, and PF, soak them in Cafiza and you're set. I just replaced all of the seals on my piston after 2.5 years of heavy use, and it works as good as the day it was unpacked. Replacing the piston seals took 5 minutes, very nice.
Buying Experience
Bought from EBay from retailer that was no longer stocking Elektra due to the price. Unit was shipped in original packaging and had never been used. Very pleased.
