this is an unbeatable machine for performance & looks
Positive Product Points
compact and very powerful, fantastic design,blends into many decorating themes
Negative Product Points
none, but be careful when handling removable parts, they get very hot!!!
Detailed Commentary
The FrancisFrancis X1 works perfect. Forget all of those negative reviews you may have read. It heats up in less than 2 minutes, make your espresso,(or 2 or 4 in a row), then flip the steam switch, and in about 2-3 minutes, steam your milk if you want to make cappucino. It is that easy and simple.I do recomend that you use the pods as opposed to loose espresso grind ( I know the purists are groaning right now), but I tried the alternative once, the mess and results were not worth the trouble. The pods cost about 60 cents per serving, less if you buy direct from Illy, and the results are very rewarding.(Good to excellent crema on top of espresso) And right now William Sonoma has it on sale for $399.00 for their exclusive color, jadite(a love it or hate it 1940s green) I happen to think it is a great color, totally in harmony with the retro design of the machine. Feel free to e-mail me if you have any doubts about the merits of this great piece of Italian machinery. My e-mail is trevigne2000@cs.com
