Friday, July 8, 2011

Saeco Incanto Classic Automatic Espresso Machine Review

Saeco Incanto Classic Automatic Espresso Machine
Average Reviews:

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I read reviews of multiple automatic expresso machines (deLonghi, Saeco, Gaggia, etc) and was concerned that most brands tend to have some negative reviews of their selected expresso machine breaking down after some time. Since there was no single review that reports on the reliability of these machines, I decided to take my chance with this expresso machine.

The manual of this expresso maker lacks sufficient instructions. Mine came with the new series Intenza water filter. The instruction, with the new water filter, instructs that the existing small white filter needs to be removed and does not provide instructions on its removal. It is only upon calling Saeco customer service that I understood how the small white filter can be removed. And when necessary, I sometimes called Seattle Coffee Gear, whom I originally bought mine from, who has excellent product expertise and customer service.

Most automatic expresso machines come with plastic parts from in to out. So this machine stands out in that the main body is still made from steel.

This product comes with an inbuilt grinder, with small to coarse grinder settings, and thus making it super-handy (fully automatic!).

I used this machine to brew some Blue Mountain coffee. It came out so rich in aroma and taste. Previously I was using some traditional filter to brew this coffee and was not able to discern the aroma and taste of this Blue Mountain coffee.

And the frother is able to froth the milk with a consistent quality as well. And it comes with the option of hot water as well.

I bought this during Jan 2010, so I can't comment on the reliability as yet. So far I cleaned this up after each use. In case, this machine starts breaking down, I will update my review so that future buyers can be fore-warned.


1.5 mths later:
Upon power on, the 2 top & 1 bottom leftmost LEDs started flashing. I referred to the manual and it indicated loading and to wait. After waiting 10 mins and resetting the machine, I still observed the same phenomenon. After some tests, I found that it needed priming. So far this has happened twice in the last 2 weeks and priming solves the problem. Saeco USA needs to improve on their manual instructions !!!

1.5 yrs later:
Just for clarification, I tend not to use this coffee maker daily, but more on weekend Sat and Sun, when I would brew 3-6 cups. I have come to appreciate this coffee machine. Even with regular coffee beans, you can smell the aroma of the fresh brew. This shows the benefit of the features, high pressure brew maker. Till today, it is still functioning.

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Product Description

Incanto Classic Automatic Espresso Machine will automatically grind the right amount of coffee, tamp, and brew, all at the push of a button. The Saeco Brewing System (SBS) allows you to make an infinite variety of coffee drinks. Rapid Steam technology reduces the normal waiting time between brewing coffee and steam output to just a few seconds. Featuring a Pannarello steam/hot water wand to froth milk for cappuccinos and lattes, and to dispense hot water. By releasing the button at the desired quantity, the Incanto Classic will program the selected button to brew that precise amount each time it is pushed. The OptiDose system allows the user to adjust the amount of coffee that is ground for each individual cup. The Incanto features a powerful pump, rated at 15 bars (217.6 psi) of pressure. Ceramic disc grinder has 7 different settings, which will allow you to adjust the strength of the coffee. The pre-ground bypass doser allows you to use pre-ground decaffeinated or flavored coffee without emptying the beans in the grinder. The dual-spout dispensing head can accommodate espresso cups (4 oz.) or coffee mugs (8 oz.). With the Aqua Prima filter the number of flavor-altering substances found in your water is greatly reduced. The cup-warming surface keeps your cups and espresso at an optimal temperature. Saeco Aroma System OptiDose system Ceramic Disc Grinder Adjustable Cup Dispensing Head Aqua Prima Water Filter Cup Warming Surface Silver finish 15-bar pressure pump 1250 Watts / 120 Volts Dimensions - 12 W x 15.5 D x 15 H In the box - Cleaning Brush Grinder Coffee Scoop Water Test Strip Aqua Prima Water Filter & Applicator Quick Start Guide Instruction Manual Manufacturer's 12-months on parts & labor warranty

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Saeco APWF-6 Saeco Aqua Prima Water Filter 6-packSaeco APWF-6 Saeco Aqua Prima Water Filter 6-pack
Saeco Dezcal Coffee and Espresso Maker Descaler - 3 packsSaeco Dezcal Coffee and Espresso Maker Descaler - 3 packs

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Nespresso Essenza Automatic Coffeemaker Review

Nespresso Essenza Automatic Coffeemaker
Average Reviews:

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I admit, I resisted you. I was in a long-standing relationship with my Estro Profi. We were compatible. We had been together for years. The espresso was still good. I thought I had it all. Why would I even consider a dalliance with a brainless little pod-based machine when I had a solid relationship with a respectable, dependable provider?

But after I saw you... I began to waver. Your body was slimmer, sleeker... I would catch myself comparing your lines to the fuller, heavier figure of the Profi.. You had style, tempting me with the racy red of your base; far more daring than the simple black I saw every day at home. I traced your curvy silhouette with my eyes, a form my old machine could never hope to attain. I imagined how you would look on my countertop, taking up only a quarter of the footprint of the Profi's "Husky" frame and requiring no extra accessories beyond your capsule tray.

Over time, I began to realize what a high-maintenance relationship I had with the Profi. Warm up the heater. Prime the pump - steam. Prime the pump - brew head. Grind the coffee. Dose the coffee. Tamp carefully to perfect pressure. Load the portafilter. Babysit the brew, and stop at the right moment. I was doing all the work while the Profi sat there smugly and thrived on the attention, dispensing the espresso that was the cornerstone of our relationship slowly... one might say, almost grudgingly.

And let's not get into how I had to practically take it apart to fill the reservoir in the first place.

Why did I do it for so long? When did I become the enabler?

But you, Nespresso Essenza Automatic Coffeemaker - Glam Red (D100)... You know what I want, and you never hesitate to fulfill even my most immediate need. I turn on your heater, and by the time I've filled your easily-accessed reservoir from the Brita and taken my cup from the cabinet, you're more than ready for me. One press of a button to prime the pump and heat the cup, pop in the pod, and another press of a button... and rich, liquid satisfaction pours. 30 seconds, that's all you need. After that, I can have what I want, as much as I want, and as slowly as I want to enjoy it.

And the espresso... Oh, Nespresso Essenza Automatic Coffeemaker - Glam Red (D100), how can I describe the richness, the variety, the sheer perfection of your capsules? How can mere words express the pleasure of watching your smooth, silky crema settle like a perfectly drawn glass of Guinness? No, Nespresso Essenza Automatic Coffeemaker - Glam Red (D100) - these are things best kept secret, enjoyed only between the two of us. Suffice it to say... I thought the espresso was good in my previous relationship, but only because it was better than Starbucks. I had no idea it could be like this.

Yes, Nespresso Essenza Automatic Coffeemaker - Glam Red (D100); I'm sure you know by now, I'm in love with you. I don't want to live without you there, on my counter every morning as I arrive bleary-eyed and disheveled for my first high-powered Ristretto shot of the day. I never want to spend another evening without you there, providing my after-dinner Decaffeinato Intenso demitasse.

I may have to get another Nespresso for the office... But don't worry, Nespresso Essenza Automatic Coffeemaker - Glam Red (D100). You'll always be the one I come home to.


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Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Alessi 9090/3 Richard Sapper Espresso Maker 3 Cups Review

Alessi 9090/3 Richard Sapper Espresso Maker 3 Cups
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I researched many stovetop espresso makers before buying this one. Most stovetop espresso makers have black plastic handles. This one has a copper handle, and in fact an all-metal body. There are no plastic parts. That's why it's so expensive, but after using it for several weeks, I found it worth every penny. The problem with black plastic handles is that you have to heat over a very low flame, which means your coffee takes a long time to boil. If your flame is too high, or your stovetop's burner ring is too large for the size of your espresso maker, you risk melting the plastic handle. A lot of plastic handles claim to be heat resistant, but my prior one not only melted, it caught on fire. The trick with using this (and all small stovetop espresso makers) is to use a hotplate or electric ring rather than put it over a gas burner ring. If you only have a gas burner stove, buy a plug-in electric hotplate. This Alessi model works beautifully with a plug-in electric hotplate, and the coffee is ready in 5 minutes.

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Product Description

The "9090" is a classic design by Richard Sapper for Alessi, first released in 1979. "9090" was the first "amphibious" Alessi design, meaning that it is suitable for the kitchen but attractive enough to be used directly at the table. It is part of the Permanent Design Collection at the MoMA and has won the Compasso d'Oro award. Available in four sizes. Mirror-polished finish. Delivered in packaging.

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Aerolatte Deluxe Edition Milk Frother with Stand, Stainless SteelAerolatte Deluxe Edition Milk Frother with Stand, Stainless Steel
Uncommon Grounds: The History of Coffee and How It Transformed Our WorldUncommon Grounds: The History of Coffee and How It Transformed Our World
Battle StudiesBattle Studies

Monday, July 4, 2011

BUNN Products Review

BUNN Products
Average Reviews:

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This is the fastest coffee maker I have ever experienced!!!! When you first set it up, be sure to follow the instructions, because it's a little weird that you fill it with two decanters of water to get started. However it really does make 10 cups of coffee in what seems like seconds! Great for home or office. You will not be disappointed!

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Product Description

BUNN - 10-Cup Professional Home Coffee Brewer, Stainless Steel, Black - Sold As 1 Each

Patented brewing system brews coffee in three minutes. Features stainless steel inner tank, internal thermostat and vacation switch to turn tank heater off when brewer will not be used for a long period of time. Number of Cups: 10; Number of Burners: N/A; Warmer: N/A; Capacity (Volume): N/A.

  • Patented brewing system brews coffee in three minutes.
  • Features stainless steel inner tank, internal thermostat and vacation switch to turn tank heater off when brewer will not be used for a long period of time.
  • Includes 10-cup glass carafe, coffee funnel and 25 filters.

    Includes one brewer, 10-cup glass carafe, coffee funnel and 25 filters.

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  • Sunday, July 3, 2011

    Stella Aroma 4-cup Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso Maker #384 Review

    Stella Aroma 4-cup Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso Maker #384
    Average Reviews:

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    I wanted a simple, beautiful espresso maker, preferably Italian.
    The Stella's lovely design caught my eye. It is a looker! Simple,
    robust design, easy to clean. Consistent espresso that is piping
    hot. A pleasure to have this in my kitchen.

    Click Here to see more reviews about: Stella Aroma 4-cup Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso Maker #384

    Product Description

    Our beautiful 18/10 stainless steel stovetop espresso maker "Aroma" is completely designed and manufactured in Italy. Sheer elegance enters the kitchen with Aroma. Compact and lightweight in design, "Aroma" is equipped with a special non-drip spout and revives the charm of the Italian tradition with an innovative style. Made from high quality 18/10 stainless steel, this stovetop espresso maker is designed for use on gas cooktops as well as on electrical, glass-ceramic and even induction plates. If you want to use this item on your induction stove - please check your user manual for your stove regarding the required base width to trigger the heat. Aroma also includes a special reducer microfilter which allows to prepare only half the total capacity without sacrifying the quality of the results.Made in Italy- all cup sizes indicate espresso cup sizes.

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    Saturday, July 2, 2011

    Rancilio Silvia Home And Office Espresso And Capuccino Machine Review

    Rancilio Silvia Home And Office Espresso And Capuccino Machine
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    I owned a Francis Francis X1 for about 3 years. It broke, so I was not happy about paying so much for just 3 years of service. Doing the research, I determined that the Silvia had a good reputation, and it seemed that it was more durable. So far (and I hope I will be able to change my opinion as time goes on) I'm not overjoyed with the machine. My main complaint is with the ability to make a nice rich crema. I'm not inexperienced, so I think I've got a pretty good idea of what I'm doing. I use a Rancillo Rocky grinder, and have tried a number of different settings from very fine to much less so. I find that 1) the portafilter does not hold as much grounds as I would like, and, 2) that even being very careful to not pack the grounds too hard in the portafilter, the Silvia does not have sufficient pressure to pump the water through the grounds. I understand that my Francis Francis was an 18 bar pump, and the Silvia is a 15 bar. That seems to make a huge difference in the ability to get a nice thick crema without taking all day to wait for it to dribble out. I believe there is a way to go into the Silvia and alter the pump pressure, and I'm going to look into that. I'm not crazy about doing that however, and don't know if it will have warranty or durability implications.
    On the upside, is the steaming capability. That sucker puts our serious steam. As I said, I've got a few years of making lattes, and I burned myself a couple of times while getting used to the powerful blast that comes out of this baby's steam wand. That I like.
    Overall, I think I will get to like this machine, but I can't help but wish that the portafilter would hold more grounds and that the pump had about five more bars of pressure.

    Click Here to see more reviews about: Rancilio Silvia Home And Office Espresso And Capuccino Machine

    Product Description

    The Silvia will deliver consistently fine espresso, lattes, cappuccinos and more, just with the touch of a button. Its beautiful to behold and simple to use. You'll be making your favorite espresso to the raves of family and friends. This is a quality machine at a terrific price: Detailed Product Features: Simple to Use Controls . Push the large central power button and an orange light comes on and stays on until the Silvia is at operating temperature for espresso, steam or hot water. Three more professional grade rocker switches now let you chose which one of those options you want. Top is for espresso, the middle for hot water and the bottom one is for steam: Flip the espresso button and that rich, hot liquid will start to flow. Switch it off when you have the amount you want. For hot water, simply flip the middle switch; open the steam valve knob and hot water gushes from the steam wand. For lattes and cappuccinos, flip the bottom steam button. When the orange light goes off, open the steam valve and start frothing milk: Milk Frothing and Hot Water . The Rancilio Silvia features a straightforward chrome plated steam wand that delivers plenty of ready steam for milk foam. In 1.5 minutes the Silvia will have enough milk to make the average sized latte up to temperature. Simply put, the Silvia out performs almost every espresso machine under $500 in the steaming and frothing race! The steam wand also doubles as the outlet for hot water. Simply press the hot water button and hot water will be dispensed for making beverages such as the popular Americano or tea: Quality Brewing Group . The grouphead (or the component that accepts the portafilter where the filter basket is placed) is made of chrome plated brass. Designed after Rancilios line of commercial espresso machines, the Silvia group head evenly distributes heat and reduces hotspots for more temperature consistent espresso. It has also been designed to evenly distribute water across the coffee grou

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    Base 50 for Silvia & RockyBase 50 for Silvia & Rocky

    Friday, July 1, 2011

    TRU Digital Single Serve Coffee Brewer (includes 250 World Blend Regular Pods) Review

    TRU Digital Single Serve Coffee Brewer (includes 250 World Blend Regular Pods)
    Average Reviews:

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    This coffee brewer replced a worn out Senseo that I had for six years. Decided to try this because of its looks and it takes up less space. You can also adjust the size of cup brewed and make tea in it.

    Click Here to see more reviews about: TRU Digital Single Serve Coffee Brewer (includes 250 World Blend Regular Pods)

    Product Description

    The TRU Digital Single Serve POD Coffee Maker produces café quality gourmet coffee with the ease and convenience of a touch pad control system. The Ultimate Brew System uses a pump feature enabling it to extract the coffee extremely well from the pods unlike other pod brewers that simply boil and drip water through. The elegant and highly stylish black countertop brewer measures 10.75L x 6.75W x 13.75H inches and features a removable water tank and multi POD holders. The Unit has a slide-out POD chamber as well as a two-piece drip tray. Includes 250 World Blend Regular Pods.

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