Gaggia Baby Class Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine Review

After researching extensively, I consistently saw that Gaggia delivers a very good machine for a reasonable price. I've had this "Gaggia Baby" for 10 months now, and it is one superb machine. The hefty, commercial portafilter, the sturdy housing, the speed with which it heats up...all inspire confidence. And better, they work together to create wonderful, delicious espresso.

A coffee lover, but new to espresso machines, I'll admit it took me a bit of experimenting to find the right grind/tamp combo. But I've got that figured out, and consistently pull great shots, full of rich crema, in 20 seconds. BTW, i use a Capresso 560.01 Infinity Burr Grinder, and find it to be perfectly good (it's what my local roaster uses at their shop for decaf).

I should note that unlike other reviewers, I found the manual to be pretty straight-forward and easily understood.

Only complaint: the buttons on this machine don't impress. They feel a bit cheap. That's the only negative, and the only reason this doesn't get a 5-star rating from me.

Final observation: My kids use this fairly regularly, and despite their abuse, it keeps delivering my 4 shots every morning.

I really like this machine, and heartily recommend it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gaggia Baby Class Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine

Product Description:
The future of espresso makers is already here, with the arrival of the latest Gaggia, the Titanium. It offers all operation at a simple push of the button, including brewing, grinding and tamping. So simple, a novice could be comfortable with it, yet still designed with the quality and durability the company was founded on. Waste no time enjoying your favorites from dark, rich espresso to frothy cappuccino. An easy-to-read LCD display enhances the look of this thoroughly modern machine. Other highlights:Features Include:High Wattage Boiler and Two Heating Elements 15 bar pumpPassively Heated Cup WarmerBrushed Stainless Steel housing60-oz. reservoir capacityIncludes single and double stainless filter baskets, coffee tamper, perfect crema disk and coffee scoopAchille Gaggia, driven by passion and inspiration, became the Father of the Modern Espresso Machine in 1938. Gaggia the company continues to be the leading maker of espresso machines in Italy, birthplace of espresso. All Gaggia brewing components are specifically manufactured to last through years of top quality espresso-making, with more flavor per ounce than other home machines.**Gaggia Espresso Machine Warranty Information: Warranty: 2-year parts and labor through Importika. Any machines taken out of the United States are void of their warranty. 1st year warranty covers parts and labor; 2nd year covers parts only.A ship

Buy cheap Gaggia Baby Class Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine now

Rancilio Espresso Machine - Rancilio SILVIA Review

I have owned several different expresso machines in different price ranges. Hands down, this machine is the best I've ever used.The machine works exactly as it is supposed to - I use it every day, sometimes a couple times per day and the espresso never changes - it's always delicious, and the steamed milk comes out perfectly.I've even left the machine on all day a couple of times, and it still does not affect the machine - it keeps working like it's brand new.The only downside is that it takes about 45 minutes for this machine to heat up.HOWEVER, there are websites out there that can tell you how to get around this and have your shot of espresso in about 10 minutes.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Rancilio Espresso Machine - Rancilio SILVIA

Product Description:
Rancilio is a company with a long tradition and our production of high-quality espresso machines dates back to the twenties. After decades of growth and learning, we proudly continue to offer products that are first in their class in design and technology

Buy cheap Rancilio Espresso Machine - Rancilio SILVIA now

DeLonghi BAR32 Retro Pump-Driven 35 ounce Espresso Maker Review

Despairing of ever finding decent espresso in the Midwest, I finally broke down and decided to get a home espresso machine.I had worked as a barrista, and had sipped espresso in Italy, so I had some idea of how it should taste.

Being relatively poor, I wanted a machine that would deliver a decent espresso, at a decent price.Though I was willing to consider a system with proprietary coffee pods (K-cups, Tassimo, etc), it would have to be cheap enough that I wouldn't mind shelling out the extra bucks for the coffee itself.And I also wanted to make sure that it was pump-driven, not steam-driven.

After checking reviews and looking around, I finally settled on the DeLonghi BAR32.It's a pump-driven maker, not steam driven, so it's not scorching the grounds as it brews.And it comes with a single and a double espresso filter.

The DeLonghi uses either ground espresso, or E.S.E. espresso pods.The E.S.E. pods are not proprietary - any company can make them.The DeLonghi comes with a package of 18 Illy pods (retail - $12).The pods are convenient, but still expensive.

I've had the espresso maker for several days, and I'm happy with it so far.With the pods, it pulls a good single espresso with a satisfactory crema.Sugar floats on top of the crema for about 2-3 seconds, and it has a nice golden color.The espresso tastes very smooth.

Pulling a good single espresso, either with the pods or loose coffee, is pretty easy.Use the pods as a good judge of how tightly to pack the grounds in the filter.Use a level, loosely packed scoop of coffee for a single shot.

Pulling a good double, on the other hand, still eludes me.The best I've come up with is to use 2 scoops, 3/4 full and loosely packed, and pressed looser than for a single.Even then, it still dribbles out slowly, with a less-than-satisfactory (though present) crema.

The steam wand works very well.I've made several excellent cappuccinos and lattes with it.It's a little cramped to use, so I pull mine to the edge of the counter so that I can get a good mug under it.I steam straight into the mug of milk, and then add the espresso.Make sure to blow some steam through it to clear out condensation before putting it in your milk.Start with the steam wand nearly submerged in the milk, and then slowly pull it out (lower the mug) until you hear a gentle "sipping" sound.That means that it's frothing.If you see noticeable bubbles on top of the milk, that means you've pulled it out too far - dip it back in slowly and you should be able to whip the bubbles into froth.Once the froth is just below the level you want it, submerge the wand back into the milk to finish heating it.Listen again - once the milk starts to sound "hollow," it's nearly hot enough.Let it go for a few more seconds, then shut off the steam, and remove the mug.The wand will drip a bit, so put it over the drip tray or an empty mug.

Making espresso is fairly easy.Turn the machine to "Heat" to start heating the water and priming the pump.Make sure the filter holder is screwed into the machine.Once the "Hot" light comes on, run an espresso cycle without coffee into the cup you'll use - pulling espresso into a cold cup will ruin the flavor.Fill the cup half-way with hot water, and turn the machine back to "Heat."Empty and quickly dry the espresso cup.Put the E.S.E. pod or ground espresso into the filter (tamp down the loose espresso) and twist it into the machine.Turn the machine on, and wait until you've got your cup of espresso.A single espresso should be 30-40ml, or 1-1.5oz.I used a measuring cup to see what that looked like in my demitasse cups.

Looking back over what I've written, I suppose I do make it look a little complicated.And it is a little bit more complicated that popping the K-cup into the machine, and hitting "Go."But it really is pretty easy, and less than 5 minutes pass between "You know, I could go for a cappuccino," and "Man, that's a tasty cappuccino."

Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Good pressure
- Easy to make a good single shot of espresso
- Uses pods or loose grounds
- 2 dials + 0 buttons = easy to use
- Outstanding steam wand
- 32oz water reservoir lets you make 3 or 4 cappuccinos, or 6 to 8 espressos, without refilling
- Built-in tamper means one less part to lose
- Pre-heat cycle helps make good espresso

Cons:
- Hard to make a good double espresso (might just be me)
- Steam wand leaks slightly (usually at the start of a brewing cycle - I just keep mine over the drip tray)In the end, the machine makes a good espresso, especially for the price, but remember that you're not going to be running a coffee shop with it.I definitely recommend it for anybody who wants to make their own espresso, but wants to do it for under $200.

Click Here to see more reviews about: DeLonghi BAR32 Retro Pump-Driven 35 ounce Espresso Maker

Product Description:
DeLonghi is proud to present this unique and popular BAR32 Retro Pump-Driven 35 ounce Espresso Maker.Just a few of it's features include pump driven, makes coffee in mug-size or smaller cup-sizes, brews standard or with pods.With ESE (Easy Serving Expresso) espresso making has never been easier.The Sempre Crema filter produces a rich, creamy froth and the swivel jet frother makes frothy milk for cappuccino, latte and other beverages.The easy cleaning 35 ounce water tank is removable and fills easily right at the faucet.This model features an exclusive anti-drip design.

Buy cheap DeLonghi BAR32 Retro Pump-Driven 35 ounce Espresso Maker now Get 58% OFF

Capresso 121.01 Ultima Semi-Automatic Coffee and Espresso/Cappuccino Machine Review

About a year ago I wanted an espresso machine that was easy to use, however I was unwilling to pay 1k or more for a fully automatic machine. The Capresso turned out to be an excellent value, providing ease of use with semi-automatic ground disposal and a reasonably sized water container.
In fact, we have experienced only two problems with the Capresso since we bought it: a torn o-ring and clogging. The o-ring tore because I did not clean the rotation mechanism for several months. The accumulated grounds eventually tore into the o-ring, breaking the pressure seal. However, when I called the Capresso help line to discuss our broken o-ring, the help desk agent immediately sent us two replacements in the mail with no questions asked. Total down time for the machine was a mere two days. The clogging was fixed with a complete cleaning, and if truth be told, it did say in the instruction booklet not to use very finely ground coffee.
Our last espresso machine, besides breaking after two years, was so difficult to use and clean we only made espresso on special occasions. The Capresso is convenient enough that we use it all the time. In fact, we have used our Mr. Coffee only twice (note the broken o-ring comment above) since we bought the Capresso.
After a year of use, I can still strongly recommend this product.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Capresso 121.01 Ultima Semi-Automatic Coffee and Espresso/Cappuccino Machine

Product Description:
The best of coffee culture in one convenient package. Eliminating all the strenuous steps of conventional espresso/cappuccino machinestamping, hot filters and stubborn sievesthis all-in-one center lets you pour in the coffee, switch on the pump and enjoy! One-year warranty. Model 121.

Buy cheap Capresso 121.01 Ultima Semi-Automatic Coffee and Espresso/Cappuccino Machine now Get 34% OFF

RSVP Terry's Tamper Review

I have a DeLonghi EC155 and the smaller size fits very nicely for tamping.It is able to hold over 50 lbs of pressure with no problem.I used the tamping method from Good Eats, where you put 50lbs of pressure, then twist.

Click Here to see more reviews about: RSVP Terry's Tamper

Product Description:
Designed by a professional barista, this tamper is made of heavy cast metal and compresses espresso like nobody's business.

Buy cheap RSVP Terry's Tamper now Get 13% OFF

DeLonghi EC155 Espresso Maker Review

I love espresso, and this little baby makes a great cup.Here are a few points that might be useful for you to know:

Good points:
*It doesn't take up too much room on the counter and looks nice with it's silver metal accents.
*The water reservoir is a good size, you can make about 8-10 shots before you need to refill it, which is very easy to do, and there is a clear section behind the basket which shows the water level.
*Fast heat-up time (only about a minute), good frothing wand, no wait time between frothing and brewing (though you do have to wait a little between brewing and frothing).

Be warned:
*Frothing wand is only 3 1/4 inches from the counter top.Not abig deal, I just went and bought a frothing cup that is about that height.
*Distance from grounds basket to tray is only 2 1/2 inches, I usually use a small espresso cup.
*Built-in tamper sucks, buy a good metal one.
*You don't end up with a nice dry puck, the grounds basket is a watery soup after your espresso is made, so I dump it down the disposal.
*You will end up drinking more espresso than you mean to, it's that good!

Seriously, I chose this machine after a lot of online researching, and decided on this one based on its outstanding reviews and great price.What led me to it were the reviews of another DeLonghi, the EC140B, which is an older and less attractive model, but had reviews from people who had owned theirs for 6 and 10 years!I'm hoping that this one will have the same longevity.

-----> UPDATE: I've now had this machine for 8 months and it started running very slow.I'd been using only distilled water, so I knew it wasn't a calcification issue, so I looked into it and it turns out machines like this one (no backflushing) need to be cleaned every month or so to remove built up grounds that work their way inside the machine.So I ran some cleaner through it and all this nasty brownish liquid came out, and now it runs great again!So remember people, take good care of your things and they will take good care of you.A lesson I am still learning...
- and to answer a question commented on this review, my tamper is 2 inches in diameter.

Click Here to see more reviews about: DeLonghi EC155 Espresso Maker

Product Description:
With two thermostats for separately controlling water and steam pressure, this convenient appliance makes espresso or cappuccino at the perfect temperature for both. The 15-bar pump-driven machine features a durable stainless-steel broiler, and its self-priming operation allows for brewing a favorite beverage without annoying start-up preparations. In addition, the unit's unique dual-function filter accommodates both E.S.E. pods and ground espresso. Used with ground espresso, the filter mixes air into the brewing process to produce a perfect crema, which, distinguished by its caramel color, is the essence of authentic espresso. And for excellent cappuccinos, the espresso maker�s adjustable swivel jet frother mixes steam and milk to create a rich creamy froth. Other highlights include a removable 35-ounce water tank for simple cleaning and filling, an "on/off" switch with an indicator light, and a removable drip tray. Designed and engineered in Italy, the 1000-watt espresso maker measures 7-1/2 by 9-1/2 by 11-1/8 inches and carries a one-year warranty.

Buy cheap DeLonghi EC155 Espresso Maker now Get 36% OFF

Gaggia 102534 Espresso-Color Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, Red Review

I had a Breville Cafe Roma, a good machine, but one that I would regard as entry level.Although the Breville had no trouble making espressos with a nice layer of crema, the (recently upgraded) steaming wand was still a weak spot.Also, there's no hot water dispenser on that model.

After extensive research, I decided to purchase the Gaggia Espresso Color.Although no reviews of this model were available, I really liked the price, the color, the overall design, and the favorable reviews I had seen for other machines in the Gaggia line.This machine is compact, stylish, and includes elements found on higher end machines like a commercial portafilter, a stainless steel boiler, and a Pannarello attachment for the steaming wand.Also, I kept coming across the same brand names over and over again with a sterling reputation in the espresso world, and Gaggia is one of those names.

I am very happy with my Gaggia.I really feel that it is a cut above my old Breville.The insides of the machine (the boiler, the heating elements, the valves) are top notch. It is a very efficient machine which does a great job and is worth every penny.

There is a learning curve with this machine because the commercial portafilter does not contain a pressure mechanism like the filters in thermablock systems.The requisite pressure for properly extracted espresso is very dependent on the fineness and consistency of the grind and the pressure used to tamp the coffee.This machine is all about the ritual of making espresso, meaning you need to pay attention to details like prepping and preheating the machine, and minding the coffee grind and the tamp.The reward, however, is an excellent espresso that trumps what is sold at the typical coffee shop.The Pannarello attachment to the steaming wand removes a lot of the guesswork for making steamed milk and foam.The foam I have had from this machine is dense and luscious and makes my latte feel like a mini-vacation;-).The espressos and lattes I have had from this machine far exceed what I had from the Breville.They're also a lot better than what I (used to) get from Starbucks.Thanks to my Gaggia, I can now get my espresso fix at home (and save beaucoup bucks at the same time)!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gaggia 102534 Espresso-Color Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, Red

Product Description:
Make a statement with the Gaggia Espresso Color!This semi-automatic espresso machine is housed in bright red ABS plastic for a stunning, exceptional design.Using a stainless steel boiler, it brews pods or ground coffee and includes filter baskets for brewing single shot, double shot, or pods.The group head and filter holder are made of heat-retaining chrome plated brass for long-lasting heat stability, and you can pre-heat your cups on the passively heated cup warmer.Don't forget about those cappuccinos and lattes - a Pannarello frothing wand attachment makes it easy to foam and steam milk without a fuss.Great for espresso lovers and home baristas at any stage of experience, the Gaggia Espresso Color comes ready to please.

Buy cheap Gaggia 102534 Espresso-Color Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, Red now Get 24% OFF