Watch out Seaco/Gaggia - on sale this machine is an unbeatable value and makes a great shot of espresso
Positive Product Points
Solid construction, sold with helpful "how to" video, straight-forward to use
Negative Product Points
Smoked plastic H2O reservior makes seeing level next to improssible, the drip tray and "storage area" are flimsy and seem to be where they cut a corner, pump must be primed before every use, I don‘t care for steam knob placement - would be better on the front of the machine
Detailed Commentary
I really like this machine and the proof comes out 1oz at a time with enough crema to make even hardcore espresso fans happy. The Barrista has a rather high mark-up and I suggest getting it on sale - I got mine for $249. You could spend extra for stainless steel or even more for their etched version, but why? At the end of the day it‘s about the sweet nectar of the bean and the Barrista does a great job at putting that nectar in your cup ;)
