An outstanding four-cup machine, unfortunatlely discontinued
Positive Product Points
This is a simple four-cup brewer that makes outstanding drip coffee.
Negative Product Points
Unfortunately it has been discontinued and carafes are no longer available from Kitchen Aid.
Detailed Commentary
Let me start with the features this machine doesn't have. There is no timer, water filter, or automatic shut-off. There isn't even a window in the reservoir to measure how much water has been poured in, only a max-fill marking.
There is an on-off switch. There are cup markings on the carafe. And a heavy cord that requires a grounded outlet or adapter. And it makes coffee as good as any premium ten or twelve-cup machine.
Water is heated to well over 190 degrees and pulses through at just the right rate for optimum saturation. The original carafe had a pouring lip that was later re-designed to avoid dripping. That updated carafe could be ordered.
The problem is this machine has been discontinued. I recently called Kitchen Aid to inquire about parts availability and was told it is no longer being made, there is no new model planned, and carafes are not available.
Sure enough today I saw it on sale in a newspaper ad at 19.99. The unit I got a few years ago was made in Portugal. I don't know if cheaper parts were recently sourced - this might explain problems other reviewers have had.
I know it can be difficult to make good drip coffee in small batches with a machine, but the Kitchen Aid exceeded my expectations. I would buy this simple model again even if a new one came out with additional features.
Buying Experience
Bought as Macy's for 29.99 - there was a promotion for a free pound of stale Seattle's Best Coffee at the time. I now see it on sale at Bloomingdales for 19.99.
