The new replacement unit delivered is with me for some time in operation. On the whole I am satisfied with the machine.
As a small weaknesses, I feel:
- The machine has no Ready light, indicating that it is turned on (so you can easily forget to switch off the device)
- The distance between the filter unit and drip tray is very low (. For the lower rooms of larger cups for Espresso Doppio as you have to take out the drip tray)
- The stainless steel hotplate for cups is easily scratched
- Accessories moderate extent (the Brühkopfschaber and Kaffeetamper had actually already should come as standard, but must be purchased separately if required as an optional accessory).
That's it for now with the criticism.
The Espresso succeed with the aroma Nero usually very good. It is true that the Gran Crema filter holder produces a very frothy crema, which has nothing in common with the crema, how to get them at an Italian restaurant and floating than fine-pored layer of fat on the drink. Poor the Espresso produced with the Gran Crema filter holder is but by no means. By purchasing the Saeco optional extras "traditional filter support" but you can also produce this machine by the Italians usual fine-pored Crema, but this requires a fine tuning of Kaffeemahlgrades with an espresso grinder and the correct contact pressure of the ground coffee in the filter holder with a Espressotamper. Espresso lovers I recommend this machine to buy the "traditional filter support" and a Espressotamper possibly as an optional accessory. Useful is also available by special order Saeco Brühkopfschaber, with which one can easily get rid of the Brühkopfdichtung dried coffee residues.
The steam nozzle of the machine serves its purpose for frothing milk. Again, it is so that it takes some practice to obtain a fine-pored foamed milk.
Update as of May 2013: My machine, although often in use, still works flawlessly as the first day after delivery. Please note, however, that this review is from the year 2009, and that my machine is still "Made in Italy". Since the acquisition of Saeco by Philips to some to have changed (and not only for the better). The production should have been relocated to Romania. For your buying decision you are based on current customer reviews.
