Good quality, easy to find machine that is good as a first step in quality espresso. Easily outgrown.
Positive Product Points
Readily available, well built machine that outclasses the usual department store offerings by krups and capresso.
Negative Product Points
Weak pump. A real espresso grind chokes the machine even with light tamp. Standard portafilter with crema enhancer is a bit silly.
Detailed Commentary
This is my first real machine. It is a nice entry level machine without breaking the bank. I opted to buy the non-pressurized portafilter. This makes the machine slightly more difficult to use, but makes it a real learning experience. I wish the pump was a bit stronger to allow a finer grind and regular tamping pressure. I think it makes a great first machine to learn on, but now I have upgrade fever. I want better temp stability, a real boiler, and better steaming. It will stay as a very serviceable backup machine. DO NOT pay full price! At $450 msrp, Sylvia would have been an easy call for$50 more. Real boiler, better quality, better steaming and parts available much more readily.
