Produces good espresso at a good price - much cheaper than Silvia in EU.
Positive Product Points
This machine produces good shots quite consistently. It comes with a decent weight portafilter (although not a true commercial). It produces a reasonable amount of steam for home use - when it gets there.
Negative Product Points
Steamed milk drinks are difficult - the boiler takes around a minute to heat from coffee to steam mode, and a similar time to cool. By the time the milk's ready, the coffee is getting a bit old. Like most home machines, it comes with a plastic tamper that's too small for the portafilter. My machine came with a very short steam wand with a frothing attachment - it doesn't work that well, but replacement steam wands are available.
Detailed Commentary
It seems from other reviews that this machine competes with the Silvia in the US and Canada. However, in the UK the Silvia is *far* more expensive. At under £190, the Classic was a very good buy.
This is my first machine. I've ticked the "I wouldn't buy this again" box - not because I don't like the machine, but because I'd upgrade to something more serious. I've had some truly excellent shots out of the machine, although most of the time it's merely reasonable. Bad coffee only comes out when I do something stupid (like putting the wrong beans in the grinder...).
Buying Experience
Bought from bestofitaly.com - shipped very promptly to the UK, no problems.
