Cuisinart DCC-100 Coffee Bar Classic 10-Cup Coffeemaker, White Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)We were generally happy with the Cuisinart DCC-100-- while it lasted. A few months ago it started working intermittently. It wouldn't always brew the coffee. Finally it stopped working altogether. The hot plate was not very warm, and it looked as though the problem might be the thermostat. So we took the coffeemaker apart. There appear to be two coils--a high power unit for brewing the coffee, and a lower power coil for keeping it warm. A thermostat in a round white ceramic package monitors the temperature. It was open, even at room temperature, so the high power coil never went on. Took it apart. Found a very brittle plastic ring, and very corroded contacts. Opinion-- the thermostat is of poor quality. The contact materials appear to be of poor quality, very pitted, unable to sustain extended use. The brown plastic ring that actuates the contacts appears to be made of a material that cannot sustain the heat. This is based on a sample of just one unit, but my recommendation is to stay clear of this unit unless/until Cuisanart finds a new thermostat vendor and publicizes that action.

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Product Description:
Cuisinart's Coffee Bar brewing system was modeled after commercial systems, and delivers pure coffee flavor, cup after cup. The 1-4 cup setting ensures you can make a cup or two without altering the temperature or flavor of the coffee. And if you're in a big hurry, rest assured you can grab a cup thanks to the pause and serve function.

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Brew Express Self-Filling Built In Coffee Maker Review

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(More customer reviews)While it looks very nice and is easy to use, after about 6 weeks of use our coffee pot has had multiple malfunctions. The water continuously flows so we have to shut it off at the valve to keep it from over flowing, it does not stay hot for long and it only brews 1/4 - 1/2 pot at a time no matter what setting it is on. The company was quick to send us replacement parts to try to fix the problems but it has been unsuccessful. They have told us we could send it in and they will look at it but we will have to pay to have it repaired.Basically, they told us that it is more than likely caused from our hard water and so they will not warranty it. Their customer service guy even said that they have seen them malfunction in less time than that with $5000 filters. This tells me a great deal about the product and it came straight from thsir own customer service. After several agruments with excuse after excuse as to why our pot only lasted 6 weeks, they DID offer to sell us a new one for only $150. Hmmm...I JUST spent $400 on one that lasted me all of 6 weeks...I think I'll invest in another Bunn. Not only does it brew FABULOUS coffee but they are reliable, they are not NEARLY as sensitive to the hard water, AND they stand behind their product 100%. We pulled out our old reliable Bunn that we have had for about 8 years to use while we waited for parts for our Brew Express and the flavor of the coffee is by far better with the Bunn. We hadn't realized just how bad the coffee tasted before. Yep, that settles it, my final word is...BUY A BUNN. It will be money well spent.

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Product Description:
Brew Express built in Coffee Maker System can brew from one to twelve cups and is conveniently self-filling. All you add is water! Offers two electrical outlets on the front of the unit. Stainless steel carafe that keeps coffee hot for hours is included.The Brew Express Coffee Maker can be paused so that you can safely remove the carafe while brewing. Water bottle with additional Flo-Jet pump optional. Dimensions (in Inches): 12. 5 x 12 x 4

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Jura-Capresso 13333 Impressa J5 Automatic Coffee and Espresso Center, Piano White Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Where to begin? This machine can do it all, from a strong shot of espresso to a flawless cappuccino, all in under minute. If you can tie your shoes, you can use one of these machines.

I looked in to this machine after using an older Capresso model at a friend's house. I was always impressed by how easily and quickly he could make a variety of drinks for guests, not to mention the quality of their appearance and flavor.

This machine comes with two different frothing systems, one is a more traditional bullet style frother, while the other can automatically steam or froth milk. This is where the J5 really shines. In no time you can froth yourself milk that would make the most seasoned barista jealous, and then push a single button to instantly brew piping hot coffee.

The machine starts with whole beans of your choosing and grinds them just for the drink you are making. This ensures that you'll get the freshest tasting coffee cup after cup.

What I like most about this machine though is the variety of drinks it can make. If you have a guest over who isn't a big coffee drinker you can use the machine to make instant hot water for tea, or my favorite trick: run chocolate milk through the steamer for instant hot chocolate. Of course for the rest of us, the pressure brewing system in this machine will allow you to say goodbye to expensive coffee drinks, and become your own favorite barista.

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Product Description:
Equipped with an 18-bar pump and 1450-watt stainless-steel-lined thermoblock heating system, this automatic coffee and espresso center can produce cup after cup of coffee with no down time in between. The machine's unique two-step pre-infusion cycle ensures every brew delivers optimal flavor extraction and a creamy crema layer. In the first stage, freshly ground coffee gets compressed, then injected with a small burst of hot water, causing the moist grounds to expand. In the second stage, brewing water courses through the engorged coffee grounds.
This user-friendly appliance combines not only powerful performance, but also a simple, elegant design with easy-to-use controls. Its front panel offers six buttons in the shape of a ring: two buttons for espresso (single and double), two for coffee (single and double), one for hot water, and one for steam. All of these functions are individually programmable. For example, the strength, temperature, and size of each of the coffee buttons can be set, as can the amount of water delivered in a hot water cycle, and the amount of time a steam cycle lasts. The 10-digit alpha-numeric LCD display clearly communicates all functions and settings in any one of five languages. The top of the unit provides three more controls: two buttons (one for power, the other for maintenance) and an illuminated rotary control dial for overriding any settings for coffee and steam. Choose from 11 programming options by pushing the integrated rotary button.
The coffee and espresso center also showcases several other innovative features. Its new ceramic-valve technology shortens the flow of coffee, resulting in a hotter temperature and more crema in the cup. The machine's three hot-water temperature settings produce a hotter Cafe Americano, pre-warm coffee cups faster, and accommodate a larger variety of tea preparation. It also provides a dual, butterfly, coffee-spout design that moves up/down and in/out to accommodate a larger range of cups.
Other highlights include a commercial-grade, solid-steel conical burr grinder with six fineness settings and low-noise operation; a 9-ounce bean container with aroma cover and low-level bean indicator; a self-adjusting brewing chamber, which holds from 5 to 16 grams of ground coffee to make up to two 8-ounce cups of coffee at a time; a sensor-activated pre-ground coffee funnel; a clock/timer with programmable auto-on and auto-off capabilities; and a 71-ounce removable water container with a Clearyl water-filtration system and low-water indicator. Even more, the machine provides two interchangeable frother systems, which include a Dual Frother Plus for manual operation and a frothXpress for automatic frothing and steaming. A concealed compartment neatly stores the measuring scoop and the Dual Frother Plus attachment. The coffee and espresso center measures 16-1/2 by 11 by 13-1/4 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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Mr. Coffee ISX43 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been using this Mr. Coffee machine (model ISX43) for a couple of weeks and am very happy with it.The controls are very accessible and easy to use.The coffee is hot enough immediately after brewing and the machine is easy to cleanup.It comes with a water filter which I guess could be useful if your water has particulate matter in it, but for me it's unnecessary.The machine is fairly tall and the top is hinged at the back and flips up, so you need a quite a lot of room above to open it.Also, the opening in the top to pour in the water is fairly small - I have to use the carafe and pour carefully to avoid spilling.The controls include a clock and timer for delayed brewing, a regular and strong brew setting (I can't really tell the difference) and a cleaning cycle which I haven't tried yet.The clock is so bright you could use it for a night light.There's also a temperature control for the hot plate (which turns off automatically after two hours).Last, I'm a fan of chrome and black appliances and find this unit quite stylish.

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Product Description:
Features:Brushed stainless steel accents.Brewing pause and serve.Removable filter basket.Two-hour auto shut-off.Special cleaning cycle.Fresh brew timer.Brew strength selector.Adjustable temperature warming plate.Water filtration.Audible ready signals.Cord storage.

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Saeco Incanto Deluxe Automatic Espresso Machine, Stanless Steel Review

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(More customer reviews)I got this thing 4 days ago when Costco had it on sale. Awesome coffee, whether you just want an Espresso, Latte, Cappucino, or a regular coffee. Easy to use. Not too noisy when grinding, tons of options to program. So, all in all, seems like a great machine. But...I have to say I already had to use their manual pump twice to "ventilate" the system (charging the circuit with water). It is supposed to do this once when installing, and then after a long time of not being in use. Well, I already had to do it twice within 4 days. Worse, it did not do it automatically, so I had to use this 20 cent hand pump that does not properly fit. It's ridiculous, this is a $1,200 machine. I really love the coffee, so I want to believe in it, but if this happens a few more times, I will check with customer service, and if this does not stop I will send it back and get a manual 15 bar one without so much electronic. Too bad though, coffee is really great.

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Product Description:
Part of the Incanto family of automatic machines, the Incanto Deluxe features innovative Saeco technologies including a LCD Digital Display, 3 programmable beverage settings and ceramic disc grinder. With the Saeco Brewing System, or SBS, the Deluxe makes it easier than ever before to customize and brew espresso at home; and thanks to the Rapid Steam® technology, you can easily froth milk to quickly turn an espresso into a cappuccino or latte. Its elegant finish and compact footprint make the Incanto Deluxe a perfect fit in any kitchen

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Capresso 153.04 C3000 Automatic Coffee and Espresso Center, with Pump-Auto Cappuccino System Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)We have owned several home espresso machines and this is by far the best one ever.The ability to froth milk automatically just before or just after making coffee or espresso is unique. In most other units it's necessary to purge the water system before steaming milk and then purging it again to regain brewing temperature. In this unit you just press the button and frothed milk foams out into your cup, and is pre-programmed to stop at the right moment.The milk unit can be removed and stored in a refrigerator and the parts are easy to clean. It even tells you when to run a cleaning or decalcifying session. Programable in English and several European languages. It's also easy to make hot cocoa by frothing chocolate milk. Electronic controls dose out the amount of coffee or espresso from a short shot of espresso (single or doppio) to a mug of coffee. It turns itself on and off and pre-measures the coffee you grind and the strength of your coffee. This is an electronic wizard that does lots more than brew a great cup of coffee. This is an ideal machine for an office or a household with a big entertainment kitchen.

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Jura-Capresso 13299 Impressa Z6 Automatic Coffee and Espresso Center Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I recently purchased the new Z6 after seeing one at William's Sonoma around Christmas.I resisted the temptation to purchase until a friend of mine called and told me he found one under the Christmas tree!We both purchased the Capresso 1500 about 3 years ago and thought those were the "Cat's Meow".Now fast forward to 2007 and the Z6 is here as the super automatic on steroids.

After unpacking I sat down and watched the included DVD twice.Once with my wife and once alone as I set up the machine.After you get through the initial setup and programming the machine is very easy to operate and maintain.Making a coffee drink is as simple as pushing one of 8 drink buttons on the front panel. I like the idea of the thermal milk storage tank but it's recommended that you don't store milk in it after use.I find this a little inconvenient to have to pour the milk into another container.With my previous C1500 I just put the plastic milk jug in the refrigerator and used it the next day.

I bought this unit to replace my C1500 for two major reasons. The first was my C1500 struggled to make a really hot coffee drink.I found myself drinking the beverage too quickly to avoid it getting cold or putting it into the microwave to heat it back up.The Z6 makes a hotter beverage that is much improved but still could be a few degrees hotter in my opinion.The second reason I purchased the Z6 was to get a bigger cup under the spouts.The C1500 was limited in what size cup I could place under the spouts and the Z6 allows me to put virtually any reasonable sized cup under the spout.

The Z6 is a beautiful piece to look at sitting on your counter and will be the envy of many a guest.However it has a chrome finish which appears durable but I would caution you to take extra precautions not to scratch the finish as it would be permanent.I place a paper towel on the lower tray when using ceramic type mugs to avoid scratching.

Update on 05/26/2008

I would like to say that the Z6 has been performing flawlessly for the past year and a half.As long as you perform the routine maintenance the Z6 will provide many years of trouble-free performance.I've also been putting the thermal milk container in the refrigerator with milk in it with no issues.

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Product Description:
The Jura-Capresso Impressa Z6 Automatic Coffee and Espresso Center gleams with a high-polish chrome plated metal front housing, a unique mirror LED display and a hand-polished zinc die-cast oversized tray.A coffee lover's dream, the Impressa Z6 has professional technology and one-touch cappuccino system. Beans are ground, and fresh, cold milk transforms into hot, frothed milk and pours into your cup. With high pressure, hot water is forced through the perfectly ground and tamped coffee. Now espresso flows through the thick layer of milk froth: pick up your perfect cappuccino and enjoy. In the meantime the used coffee grounds are discarded and you can immediately start dreaming about another cappuccino, latte, espresso, or any other hot large cup of crema coffee.

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Bugatti Diva 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machines Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased the red model of the Bugatti Diva about two months ago. After decades of burning out cheap espresso/cappuccino machines, I decided to get a more high-end model.What impressed me after pulling a few shots, was the inner power of this espresso maker--with 15 bar pressure, contrasted to the standard 8 or 9, extraction is quick and forceful, finishing with a beautiful light brown crema.It heats up quickly and is quieter during extraction than many other machines in my experience.Everything is solid and clearly designed for years of use. The milk steam frother has equal power to the extractor and sends plenty of heat and steam into the pitcher.The water tank in the back can be more easily filled with a reusable water bottle--avoiding the method of taking it out and carrying it to the water filter at the sink.Augmenting the previous reviewer I grind my beans (at a level just above Turkish coffee grind) and tamp the grind into the other style portafilter from the pod version he uses.I too have high praise for this very solid implement which has a tight and solid feel when connected to the machine, so the reader now has positive reviews of both portafilter versions.Finally, a word about grace and beauty. Aesthetically driven product design hasn't always been part of our lives in North America.The Bugatti Diva has a stark angularity and seems to slighly thrust forth at you with its wonderful large dial, but this assertiveness actually echoes well with my kitchen, and, I suspect, will do so with most other's kitchens. This will certainly be the only time in my life that I will own a Bugatti original. That being said, I give their Diva espresso and capuccino maker the highest possible praise, adding that I recommend the red version for its dramatic presentation of what is, after all, the most important appliance in any cultured and civilized kitchen.

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Product Description:
Combining modern art with advanced technology, this easy-to-use espresso machine not only brews excellent-tasting coffee drinks right at home, it also makes for an interesting conversation piece. The stylish-looking appliance, properly named the "Diva", accommodates both ground coffee and coffee pods, makes one cup at a time or two cups simultaneously, and offers a steam wand for frothing milk or providing hot water for tea. An easy-to-read gauge clearly marks the appropriate temperature ranges for pulling shots and steaming milk. Other highlights include a 15-bar pump for fast heat-up times, brass fittings, an integrated water tank, and a stainless-steel cup-warming plate. Made of die-cast aluminum and available in a variety of colors, the Italian-made espresso machine measures approximately 12-2/5 by 13 by 18-1/2 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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Saeco S-TG-ST Talea Giro Super Automatic Espresso Machine Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Seems expensive, but please add up your Starbucks expenditures for the past year and then buy this with no hesitation!

Many espresso purists turn their noses up at superauto machines, but as someone who has owned a high-end non-auto machine, this Saeco will reliably produce a high-quality espresso shot with virtually no effort!With my manual machines the shots would vary in quality, and while at times I could produce a better shot on my own, it would require a lot of effort.This superauto produces espresso that is 100% reliably better than most but not all of the shots I could produce manually, and it does so with almost no effort on my part (add water, beans, empty dreg drawer, that's about it).

Oh, and definitely get the [optional] Milk Island, which produces a phenomenal microfoam, to the point that you can do some basic latte art with it; again not better than some I could produce manually, but consistently better than most I produce manually, and with no work at all!

This machine looks great, heats up INSTANTANEOUSLY (that's right, no waiting at all for a boiler to heat up), is fairly quiet (thanks to ceramic grinder), and produces espresso that is superior to anything you could ever get a Starbucks.

I also looked at just about every other superauto in the $500 to $1,500 price range, and in fact tried a number of them out in person.This particular unit was my favorite by a wide margin!

BUY THIS AND THE OPTIONAL MILK ISLAND AND NEVER GO TO STARBUCKS AGAIN!I'm serious.

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Product Description:
The Talea Giro offers all the convenience of a super automatic espresso machine, and is milk island capable ( milk island sells separately) which offers more options for frothing and steaming milk for cappuccinos and lattes. The Milk Island is a unique Saeco development for all Talea models. In fact, it is the key function for all milk frothing connoisseurs. Whether you prefer espresso macchiato, cappuccino, latte macchiato or any other speciality, the preparation of creamy foam takes just a matter of seconds. The Milk Island is available in glass with a total capacity of 13.5 ounces or 1.7 cups.The Talea Giro has a built in ceramic grinder that puts an end to grinding with metal components.Ceramic is inert and won't react to the coffee or alter its flavor.The ceramic grinder provides a more even grind, allowing for perfect dosing and blending and is also much quieter about performing its duties than stainless steel grinders. The Talea Giro takes care of the grinding, dosing, tamping and brewing, but allows for personal taste in the programming of coffee size, strength and temperature. The Talea Giro offers the patented technology of the Saeco Brew System--turn the dial either right or left and change the strength and consistency of your coffee by either increasing or decreasing the water pressure as it moves through the grounds.Saeco Opti-dose has an adjustable 7 - 10.5 gram doser regulating the amount of beans to grind per serving.Talea Giro includes an adjustable built-in ceramic disc grinder, automatic cup warming surface that holds up to 6 espresso cups, a stainless steel pannarello attachment for steaming milk and dispensing hot water,a removable 57 ounce water tank, manual drip tray that you can move up or down to adjust to any size cup, sliding wheels on the base of machine for convenient rotation and rapid steam technology---no waiting between frothing milk with pannarello attachment and brewing espresso.

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Black & Decker DCM7 Cup-at-a-Time Personal 12-Ounce Coffeemaker, White Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought one of these for my mother for Christmas. Years ago I had gotten her a Black&Decker cup-at-a-time coffeemaker and it finally gave up last year. The only cup-at-a-time coffeemaker at a reasonable price I could find locally was by Toastess. The Toastess paled in comparison to the Black&Decker, not only in build quality but in ease of use. My mother suffers from a neurological disorder which makes it difficult to coordinate the use of her hands; she is okay with general tasks, but nothing which requires fine manipulation. This Black&Decker coffeemaker, like the model before, is easy to use. The power switch is on the front and a little larger than several coffeemakers switches; you just have to push down on it. There is nothing to move out of the way when filling the reservoir; just lift the lid. The reservoir is also a little wider than the Toastess making it easier to fill. Of course, one of the safety features, which the Toastess model also lacks, is the automatic shut-off. When it is finished making a cup of coffee, and it is fast, it just shuts off, which is great for someone who keeps forgetting to turn off their coffeemaker. The only issue I can see that someone may have, and niggling at that, is that this unit cannot hold tall coffee mugs. All of my mother's coffee mugs fit, which is a lesser concern for me, however, than its ease of use and safety, at which this Black&Decker excels.--Bob

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Product Description:
Great for at home, in a dorm, or at the office, this compact cup-at-a-time coffeemaker brews fresh, hot coffee directly into any 5- to 12-ounce mug. To use, simply pour a mug full of cold tap water into the water reservoir, insert the permanent filter into the filter basket, add a measured amount of coffee grounds, place the mug or cup on the mug/cup rest, and push "start". An "on" indicator light will illuminate until brewing has completed. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee quickly and easily any time of day. The handy appliance can also be used to make hot water for tea, hot chocolate, or instant foods like oatmeal or soup. In addition to its simple, straightforward design, the appliance provides automatic shut-off for safety and peace of mind. The filter basket and permanent filter clean up easily by hand or in the dishwasher, and the base of the unit wipes clean with a damp cloth. The 800-watt coffeemaker measures approximately 6-1/5 by 7 by 9-1/5 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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DeLonghi BCO70 Caffe Nabucco Espresso, Cappuccino, and Coffee Bar Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a good value for the price.It's fast, convenient
and makes great coffee/espresso.We particularly like the
built in milk steamer.We also like having the ability to
make coffee and espresso at the same time with one machine.
The only criticism is that it has no automatic shut-off.
We bought an appliance timer to cover that deficiency.
That was the only point that kept us from rating it 5 stars.

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Product Description:
Why have two separate machines when you can make coffee and espresso at the same time? You set the brew strength and size, the machine does the rest. You can even pour yourself a cup before it finishes brewing with the handy Pause 'N' Serve feature. Ten-cup carafe. One-year warranty. Model BCO70.

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DeLonghi EC140B Espresso and Cappuccino Maker Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I owned the maker for a while.It's far better than many of the Krups and other models typically for sale at department stores.If you want an espresso, you'll need a pump machine.Many cheap machines will say "steam driven" or otherwise have "steam" in the title:what this means is that they lack a pump and merely use steam pressure to get now overly superheated water to flow through the fine espresso grinds.(By the way, "espresso" is, for all intents and purposes, a grind, not a roast.It is a very fine powdery grind, just shy of Turkish grind.)This results in charred burnt espresso, with little or no crema.

This DeLonghi, by contrast, does a fine little job of pumping.In addition, it uses a small stainless steel boiler -- not a superheated "thermoblock" [which means the water is run over a heating coil, not heated within a boiler].

That said, the only way to get an espresso, meaning a coffee drink in which properly heated water is compressed through a powdery grind of freshly roasted beans, and thus producing a chemical reaction which releases a frothy caramel colored liquid (called "crema"), is by using a very good grinder to produce a very fine, even grind.This machine, when coupled with a Gaggia MDF or Rancilio Rocky, or at the most economical, an Innova Lux or Solis Maestro Plus, and beans roasted within two weeks prior, can produce good espresso.

As to cappuccino, the machine does a fine job for the price in steaming milk.In order to do this, though, you must "temperature surf" the thermostat.What this means is that you steam while the boiler is heating.It's simple:start steaming your milk and you'll find that the steam power will run out in about 15 seconds.At that time the light for the boiler will come on, indicating the boiler is engaged.Instead of closing the steam valve and waiting for the light to go off, just close the steam valve for a few seconds, and then open it again, as you continue steaming the milk with the light still on (and hence the boiler still heating).This will give adequate steaming power.

I don't believe you can really get a better espresso or cappuccino maker for under $150.If you want to go for a huge step up, consider buying a Gaggia Carreza.It's worth the extra money.

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Product Description:
Delonghi Espresso/Cappuccino Maker with patented "sempre crema" filter holder. Used with ground espresso, this unique filter mixes air into the brewing process to produce a perfect crema. Distinguished by its caramel color, the crema is the seesnce of authentic espresso.

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Cuisinart DGB500BK Grind and Brew Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been using this coffeemaker daily for about 9 months.I'm not completely satisfied with it.

The positive:It does what it's supposed to do, most of the time.

Cons:

- It's a real pain to clean.There are six parts to clean after every pot of coffee.The worst is the two-piece grinder assembly.Due to the complete absence of venting and valving, by the end of the brew the entire grinder assembly is soaking wet from condensed water vapor.This means it is coated with a fine mud of pulverized coffee.The grinder assembly has plenty of annoying nooks and crannies; cleaning it means standing there with a few paper towels, jamming them into the crevices to get the old coffee out.After that, you have to clean the filter holder, the filter holder lid, the pot itself, and the pot lid.The pot lid is annoying, requiring two hands to remove - I usually drop it once a day or so.

- Fit and finish.Once you've passed the plastic parts through the dishwasher once, they never fit quite right again.About once a month, the filter holder pops out during brewing, spilling hot coffee all over my kitchen counter and floor; the cleanup from this invariably scatters wet grounds everywhere.

- The machine ships with one tiny charcoal filter.Once it's done, where do you get another one?I don't bother; I just use Brita-filtered water to begin with.

- The hot water jets out onto one spot, drilling a hole in the grounds, and then quickly fills up the flat-bottomed filter holder, floating the grounds and making a soup which then slowly drains.This isn't the optimal way to extract coffee.

Bottom line - it does what it's supposed to, most of the time.Bad design, however, shows itself in the areas of cleaning, brewing, and operation (including occasional kitchen disasters.)I'm in the market for a different unit.

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Product Description:
You would expect nothing less than a fabulous cup of coffee from this trend-setting machine. From its Italian styling to its roster of desirable features, Cuisinart has designed a winner. The freshest and most flavorful coffee possible is assured by its charcoal water filtration system, its programmable operation, and its bean-grinding mechanism.

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Cuisinart Coffee Maker & Grinder - Thermal Carafe - Stainless steel Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)You might be tempted, Cuisinart typically makes great products.But, unless you actualy ENJOY cleaning your coffee maker for an hour every time you make coffee, and unless you LIKE having coffee grounds floating around in large quantities in your cup, this is NOT the machine you want.

In fact, it's so bad that after about 4 brewing cycles, you'll pack the stupid thing up and give it to some poor, unsuspecting friend or family member, who, after about 4 brewing cycles, will realize why you gave it to them. Then they'll cuss you, and pass the coffee maker off to some other poor sap. Eventually the damn thing will make the rounds and get re-gifted back to you, and you'll be exactly where you started.

So, to save yourself, your friends, and your family a whole lot of time and heartache playing hot-potato with this stupid machine, take my advice... PICK OUT A DIFFERENT COFFEE MAKER!!!!!

By the way, every time you make coffee, you will swear the machine is going to explode. It makes the most violent, disturbing sounds I've ever heard come out of a healthy piece of kitchen equipment. Seriously. Horror-movie quality sound effects...
NOTE: this is a true story, up to and including the re-gifting part... when I got the damn thing offered back to me, I had to post this review. CAVEAT EMPTOR! (or TEMPUS FUGIT or QUID PRO QUO or some other goofy Latin phrase))

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart Coffee Maker and Grinder - Thermal Carafe - Stainless steel

Product Description:
A unique way to pamper the coffee lover. The 10 cup automatic grind and brew coffee maker is designed to wake you up with the smell of the freshest, most flavourful coffee imaginable -- the kind you would go to your favourite coffee bar to get. This smart coffeemaker has a built-in grinder that grinds the beans just before brewing (or push the Grind Off button to use with ground coffee). Program the machine with the number of cups you'd like and just enough water will be delivered to extract all of the good flavour and none of the bitterness. The double-wall insulated thermal carafe will keep the coffee hot for hours.A variety of adjustable features makes this the ultimate user-friendly coffee maker. A 24-hour fully programmable timer guarantees delicious, fresh-brewed coffee just when you want it. The handy Brew Pause feature lets you enjoy a cup of coffee before brewing has finished. An automatic shut-off control turns the coffee maker off right after brewing or up to 4 hours later. A "1 - 4 cups" setting provides full flavour when brewing just a few cups. A charcoal water filter removes impurities from the water before brewing. A separate grinder chamber and filter area make for easy cleanup. Includes a permanent gold tone filter.
Size: 10 cups
Color/Pattern: Brushed stainless steel
Materials: Stainless steel
Warranty: 3 years limited
NOTE: Cuisinart Grind & Brew Thermal Coffee Maker

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Farberware FCM12SS 12-Cup Coffeemaker, Stainless/Black Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Like everyone else, I found the absurdly tiny opening for the water is a royal pain, & certainly drags the rating for this way down. After setting it up, impressed with the features, & price, I couldn't even see where the water should go, and looked to the instructions, which weren't much help. I finally realized, that despite a huge lid, which is only for the filter, the opening for filling was a tiny, narrow slit towards the rear of the unit. This is way too small, and not only must you be a great aim, but it's quite awkward maneuvering the carafe to enable it to fully empty!

I truly cannot believe that someone, or ones, were paid to "design" this model! What were they thinking???

Oh, well, this is the third coffeemaker I've bought recently, the first two were even even worse, so I'm still undecided if I'll return this, or just live with having to be ultra-precise when filling it.....

Click Here to see more reviews about: Farberware FCM12SS 12-Cup Coffeemaker, Stainless/Black

Product Description:
Farberware 12-Cup stainless steel coffee maker with 24 hour digital clock with programmable timer. Adjustable brew strength selection. Stainless steel and black.

Get 22% OFF

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Bosch TCA6301UC Benvenuto B30 Thermoblock 15-Bar-Pump Digital Fully Automatic Espresso Machine Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The Bosch Benvenuto B30 is an exceptional coffee maker. We used to have a fully automatic Saeco model for the past 9 years, but it recently started leaking and so we decided to get a new machine.

Before buying the Benvenuto B30, we researched quite a few machines: The Saeco models we saw on store display didn't strike us as too well-made. Our old one was largely metal but we found the new models to be made of relatively flimsy-feeling plastic. We then looked at the Jura machines but ultimately decided against them due to their high prices, reviews we read that the coffee isn't made hot enough, and also because Jura machines only allow for three different coffee strength settings - weak, medium, and strong. We wanted more choices.

Having had experience with these types of machines for almost 10 years, we knew what we wanted: a height-adjustable spout, the possibility to use both beans and ground coffee, a relatively quiet operation, and an intelligent design which would tell us when to refill water, beans, when to clean, descale, etc. The B30 does all that and more. Moreover, it offers stylish design and is very well made.

The machine does not take long to reach its required operating temperature and the electronic display informs you when it is ready. The coffee strength can be adjusted from mild to extra-strong. Furthermore, the amount of water can be adjusted to accomodate small Espresso cups, XXL coffee mugs and pretty much everything in-between.

Undoubtedly the best feature is the height-adjustable spout, or rather spouts (the B30 has 2) which let you brew 2 cups of coffee simultaneously - a huge time-saver in the morning! We found that although the height can only be adjusted by little over 4 inches, there is no problem to use cups higher than that. This is due to the clever design that gives ample and easy access to the spouts from the side as well as from the front - we just move the cups under the spouts holding them at a slight angle. With our old Saeco machine, we always had to remove the grille and tray to be able to accomodate larger mugs.

Another very nice feature is that the water temperature can be adjusted. At the Maximum setting, the coffee is piping hot - very useful when adding cold frothed milk to it because with other machines, this makes the coffee too cold to be enjoyable. The B30 even has a heated top grille for pre-heating your coffee mugs!

And if all of that weren't enough, the machine even has an automatic timer function to automatically turn itself on at a pre-set time, and turn itself off again after a set number of hours.

In summary, this machine is incredibly easy to operate, fast and makes excellent coffee in all kinds of strengths and sizes. An integrated steamer to froth milk, etc. is of course standard.

The only other thing I would like to mention is that if you are a larger family of coffee lovers, you may find the water tank to be a bit on the small side. In our house we're just two people and find that we have to refill the tank every day after just 2 - 3 cups of XXL-size coffee. Then again: This also ensures that the water is always fresh and not stale from sitting in the tank for too long. So you be the judge whether this is a negative or not.

I whole-heartedly recommend this machine which in my opinion offers a lot more than the overpriced Jura machines, especially when it comes to flexibility!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bosch TCA6301UC Benvenuto B30 Thermoblock 15-Bar-Pump Digital Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

Product Description:
At just the touch of a button, the Benvenuto Gourmet coffee maker grinds the beans and brews the coffee within seconds. The unique AROMASWIRL high-pressure brewing system immerses the freshly ground coffee in the ideal water temperature for optimal extraction and maximum flavor release. A frothing attachment for cappuccino, instant hot water for tea or hot chocolate adds to this amazing machine's capabilities. To top it all off, the Benvenuto automatically cleans itself when needed. Fresh, flavorful coffee, cappuccino or espresso just like they make it in the Italian cafes.The Good Housekeeping Seal Recognized for their quality manufacturing, Bosch are backed by The Good Housekeeping Seal - a two-year limited warranty.

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Starbucks Sirena Espresso Machine, Stainless and Black Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Bottom line up front:I'm happy with the Sirena.

I'm not a coffee snob and don't really care one way or another what name comes on the outside of the machine.I like strong espresso and this machine doesn't disappoint.There are a couple of things that I like and a couple of things that I don't.Here they are:

Like:
- Easy to use
- Can grow with you, i.e. if you want to pull out the Pressurizing disc and start tamping your own shots, you can, and after some practice, will probably get a better quality of crema and espresso.Bean quality, grind, etc... dependent.
- Quick heat up time (less than 2 mins in the morning) and quick steam (less than 10 seconds.
- Good micro-foam on the steamer.My wife likes capuccinos and the good quality foam makes her very happy.

Dislike:
- The water level sensor drives me crazy.It comes on, I refill the container, and it doesn't go off.I have to mess with the container where it attaches to the machine to get it to turn off....eventually.I've read more than a few reviews about this problem.Small overall, but annoying.
- Price.I purchased this machine at the X-mas special (499 w/grinder, barista kit, 1lb coffee with a 30% employee discount ($375 paid in the end).It was an incredible deal...that made it very worth the money.Full price...I don't know.I like this machine, but I'm cheap and I'd rather pay for quality and performance than looks.This machine offers both, but without the discount it would've made my choice more difficult.

There is a great thread on coffeegeek.com about the Sirena.A guy named Wayne, a.k.a. roastaroma, has made it his mission in life to break this machine apart and extract every bit of usefullness out of it.For true coffee lovers looking for a great machine his insights might help make up your mind.

Happy Shopping.

6 month update (1 July 2008).

The steam knob stripped out about 3 weeks ago.One minute I was frothing milk, the next I was trying to get a scalding hot jet of steam to stop...awesome.I contacted SB and they gave me the number to their warranty dept.I called their warranty dept and they told me that SAECO not SB warranted the item.Okay, so I call SAECO and was not exactly pleased with the response.First, they confirmed that the unit was under warranty..good.Second, they sent me a form to fill out detailing the problems with the machine.They had me fax that form back to their warranty dept...okay so far.Third, they informed me that I was responsible for packing and shipping the machine back to them with no reimbursement.Fourth, they told me that if anything other than the previously faxed deficiencies were discovered that it would be repaired at my cost.Bottomline, if something breaks during shipment, you pay for it out of pocket along with the shipping and handling you've already spent sending a defective item back to the manufacturer.

I haven't had a lot of problems getting things serviced in the past.SAECO's warranty repair system seems a little too involved and isn't user friendly in my opinion.I contacted the Starbucks that I purchased the machine from and was able to swap out the machine...but the less than ideal experience with SAECO is important to share.

Other than that the machine is still working well and am still happy that I purchased it.Starbucks customer service made up for the problems with SAECO.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Starbucks Sirena Espresso Machine, Stainless and Black

Product Description:
With this beautiful, simple, and impeccably engineered espresso machine, you'll pull shots so perfect and steam milk so frothy-your passion for superb coffee will only grow deeper. Bring home performance and beauty in every cup.Engineered to be simple.Designed to be timeless. Created to produce the perfect shot of espresso at home. Sirena's Rapid Steam ™ Boiler gives you continuous, powerful steam--and lets you move from frothing directly to brewing without waiting. At just 15 inches tall, Sirena is just the size to fit into any kitchen. Commercial quality portafilter retains heat easily, and features a patented back-pressure adaptor which adjusts automatically to the coffee's grind, for a full, rich crema.

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