... This is, indeed, the "dream machine" for making espresso at home, especially where counterspace is at a premium and appearance matters. The machine, which has a small footprint compared to most others, is so beautiful it practically qualifies as sculpture. It makes championship espresso--I prefer its semi-automatic mechanism (you decide how much water per shot) to the fully automatic machine I have elsewhere. With the "pressure" portafilter (the only one I use) there is ample crema. Only complaints: the steam wand is quite short and the all-important steam hole (keep it just at the milk's surface for maximum foam)is a bit hard to see; and the resevoir does not hold as much water as some machines'(though it's very easy to fill).
Hint: this machine works better if you make the espresso first, then steam the milk. The machine is so solid and well built that it takes forever for the temp to drop back to coffee level after it has heated to steam level.
You won't be sorry you bought this machine. Every time you look at it (especially in this wonderful orange color) it will make you happy. ...
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