-Produces great and consistent shots -Plastic body is easy to clean
Negative Product Points
- Cups left on plastic warmer has a residual "plasticky" smell, interferes with aroma of coffee. - The steam wand gets in the way when locking the portafilter - Buttons feel a bit flimsy, and feels like they may fail after long term use
Detailed Commentary
This was my first pro-sumer machine, nothing much to compare it with. The shots prepared were better than any I've had before. I've paired it with the Isomac stepped grinder, which was insufficient to get the right grind level. Later, I changed to the Ascaso i-mini stepless, and was able to get better and more consistent shots.
The cups that were left on the warmer have a plasticky smell and I had to place a piece of aluminum foil to prevent the smell transfer. The water reservoir also has the same plasticky smell, and I suspect that some of it is transferred into the brewing water.
Buying Experience
The owner was really aggressive and later found out that it was overpriced. The machine was also bundled with accessories with inflated prices to make it look attractive. Could have ordered a full-fledged stainless machine from overseas and including shipping, it would still be cheaper. The Isomac grinder that was recommended to go with it was woefully inadequate. I would buy this machine again, but not from the same vendor and hopefully at a more reasonable price.
