Type 965 a.k.a "Novo"- works a treat for the home user.
Positive Product Points
Gutsy little performer for the home user that wants to make 2 - 3 cups a day and is sticking with a manual espresso machine. Looks good, small size in the kitchen and the plastic drip tray is easy to clean.
Negative Product Points
The standard steam pipe for frothing milk is useless. Remove it and replace it with a standard Krups steam pipe. I used the arm from a Krups 964 model as the replacement. The drip tray does tend to fill up pretty quickly and will require regular attention.
Detailed Commentary
Thumbs up at this stage. My machine probably pumps out 14 cups per week. Recommended.
I removed the "special" steam arm attachment and replaced it with a solid steam arm from the Krups type 964 that does not have the attachment. The difference in ability to create perfect frothed milk after the customisation is like chalk and cheese. Make sure you do similar.
Having owned a Sunbeam espresso unit prior to this model, they are worlds apart. The krups pumps out the frothy milk in no time compared to the "similar" Sunbeam style espresso machine. You get what you pay for.
I have the original instruction manual should anyone require a copy.
Buying Experience
This machine was a gift.
Three Month Followup
I'm still enjoying great coffee's at home after 3 months.
One Year Followup
Since posting my initial review, I had a problem with the O-ring that is closest to the bottom of the joining element (the part that you slide the steam pipe onto) failing due to the O-rings age which is not surprising considering how old the unit is. This caused lots of hot water and steam to escape at the junction of the Krups Steam Pipe and the joining element and therefore no steamed milk !! I located a UK based parts supplier (September 2011) and ordered a new O-ring and steam pipe. Both parts fitted perfectly and were easy to change. For intermittent maintenance of any blockages to the steam pipe, try using a paper clip inserted in the eye of the steam pipe to move and assist any build up of gunk to come out. This was recommended to me by the bloke at the local appliance repair centre.
