Buy a high quality machine. You will pay more, make better caffe, and keep it longer.
Positive Product Points
Though it is an old model, I was happy with my product. It is easy to use for a beginner and helped me learn the fine art of making espresso.
Negative Product Points
The coffee product comes out a bit watery after the first couple of seconds and there seems to be no way to get only one shot.
Detailed Commentary
I was tired of buying inexpensive home espresso machines from local stores, so I went on eBay and found this for sale for $US55. It has a pump rather than a reservoir, which is particularly attractive to me and I have used it to learn the art of making espresso for myself. It does not duplicate the product from much more expensive machines and I still have not figured out how to get consistently thick coffee from the shots, nor can I get only one shot, which is not a big deal. Considering the age of the product and its price, I am generally very happy with it. In fact, it makes me want to buy a more expensive digital model.
Buying Experience
I bought from a private party on eBay and am happy with my product. I did not expect nor have I received after-the-sale service. This is a great beginning machine.
Three Month Followup
I sold the machine.
One Year Followup
I sold the model about 3 months after I bought it. It turned out to be more difficult to use than I wanted and never did give me a really good cup of espresso.
