The Cuisinart Brew Central is a nice, attractive, well built machine...that produces cups of luke warm mediocrity.
Positive Product Points
The Cuisinart Brew Central has a nice Stainless Finish. The controls were simple and sturdy. Simple metal toggle switch, dials and buttons. 4 cup brew button that heats the water hotter for a smaller batch. Low, medium and high heat warming plate control. Replacable charcol filter for those that have problems with their water. Carafe is wide and easily pours and cleans. 3 year mfg's warranty.
Negative Product Points
The coffee the machine produces is mediocre.
Detailed Commentary
I was impressed with the construction of the Brew Central. It is an atractive appliance on the kitchen counter and the dials and controls have a quality feel about them as does the overall feel of the machine.
The main problem is, is that the Cuisinart Brew Central did not produce a very hot cup of coffee. As a result, the flavor of the coffee was lacking as well. This is even with using a SwissGold filter.
I measured the temperature of the coffee entering the carafe at roughly 160 degress; 180 degress in the grounds after brewing was completed. After 2 weeks of drinking subpar coffee I returned the unit to Kohl's for a refund. For $80.00 I just expect more performance from the Brew Central. I'd rather drink tea until my Newco OCS-8 arrives.
My old Presto Scandinavian spoiled me. Even though it was not built as sturdy as the Brew Central , the Presto made fabulous hot coffee. I 'm sure that the Brew Central would last the full 3 years of it's warranty...but I just could'nt stand one more cup of the coffee it produced.
Buying Experience
Kohl's was great and took the unit back for a refund. Good customer service.
