Really does brew HOT coffee! An awesome brewer that's worth every penny.
Positive Product Points
1) Brews HOT coffee! 2) All parts are removable for cleaning 3) Can interact with brewing process 4) Don't have to interact with brewing process 5) Copper heating element - great internals 6) Clear water reservoir with removable top for easy filling 7) Carafe keeps coffee HOT! 8) Actually (as I said before) brews HOT coffee!!!
Negative Product Points
1) Drips for a while after brewing 2) Flimsy plastic holder for carafe to rest on that always detaches from the unit 3) Bulky cord that's tough to tuck behind unit and hide
Detailed Commentary
I was very hesitant to spend big bucks on a coffee maker that might not do what its supposed to do - brew coffee at the proper temperature. But, after getting tired of buying and taking back incompetent coffee makers, I decided to bite the bullet and go for it. I found one on eBay that had been used once and got it for a great price. In reality, I would've spent the same amount on a Capresso MT500 so the justification was easy. Plus, resale of the TV is great so I knew I could re-list and not be out much $$.
The Technivorm does exactly what it is supposed to do - brew hot coffee. If that's what is important to you then go for the TV. If you are looking for other features like a timer, clock, etc, then skip this one. I am so happy to have found a coffee maker that brews at proper temp's. I was beginning to think they didn't exist anymore but now that I've found the TV, it will stay on my kitchen counter until it dies.
One aspect I really love about this brewer is you can interact with the brewing process (but don't have to). You can watch the grounds and make sure they are properly saturated, spin the grounds basket (if need be), stir, close the funnel for a bit so water soaks the grounds, etc.
From reading other reviews, I've seen some people don't care for the shape of the carafe, the pour lip. Personally, I like it. I have no problems pouring coffee into a cup, neither a small cup nor a big cup. It keeps the coffee hot too.
I love this brewer. If you want a no-frills brewer that brews hot coffee and are thinking about a Technivorm, my advice is to get one. You won't be disappointed.
Buying Experience
Found a great 'used once' machine on eBay. It came in the original box with original manual and really did look like it was used only once. Great experience and a great price!
