Showing posts with label disappointing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label disappointing. Show all posts

10/25/2011

Krups XP4050 1200-Watt 15-Bar-Pump Programmable Espresso Machine Review

Krups XP4050 1200-Watt 15-Bar-Pump Programmable Espresso Machine
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I must start with saying that this is my second XP4050 in one month, the first suffering from two problems. One problem was the same that others have mentioned here, when water stops coming out of the filter head and instead just dumps into the drip tray from an apparent overflow-type valve in the bottom of the machine. This only happened once, corrected itself, and never happened again. The second problem was that I noticed a small amount of water occasionally leaking from the buttons on the front and the stainless portion on the front of the machine would also get VERY hot. I believe these were one problem, possibly the brewing portion leaking.
I contacted Amazon online and was shocked at the ease and speed of getting a replacement model. At no charge to me, including shipping, I had a brand new XP4050 within 3 days.
The new model works perfect. I am a somewhat new espresso afficienado, having been making my own at home for only about 2 years. This is my second machine, my first being a Krups Gusto that recently died. I decided on the XP4050 after a great deal of research and comparing features versus cost. The price I got this model through Amazon was literally half what I was looking at with other brands.
As far as use of the machine, it couldn't be easier. I use mostly pods but have tried grounds with equally easy and great tasting shots. The three different filter baskets for brewing are held in the handle firmly, which was an issue in my old Krups Gusto (I accidently threw away the single shot filter basket). The frother performs very well although I have not tried the attachment for pulling the milk from a separate container. As others have said, make sure you keep an eye on your drip tray, it does tend to fill quickly. I empty mine every 4-6 shots.
Overall, even considering my initial "problem" model, I am extremely happy with the XP4050. It's a great looking, inexpensive, easy to use machine that consistently puts out quality shots of espresso. I would recommend this model to either new beginners or someone looking to step up a little.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Krups XP4050 1200-Watt 15-Bar-Pump Programmable Espresso Machine

Beautifully designed with a stainless-steel front panel and simple-to-use controls, this 1200-watt programmable machine makes cafe-quality espresso, cappuccino, and latte. The machine comes equipped with a Thermobloc 15-bar pump system, which provides optimal temperature and pressure for extracting great-tasting espresso, while its automatic cappuccino system precisely combines the right amount of steam and air to quickly froth milk. Easy push-button programming offers the ability to customize the size and strength of espresso, as well as control the steam and hot water functions. For added convenience, the espresso machine has a filter holder with three, interchangeable, pre-measured inserts that accept ground coffee for one or two servings of espresso as well as E.S.E. pods. Other useful features include a 32-ounce removable water tank, a removable stainless-steel drip tray, and a stainless-steel warming tray that allows for preheating espresso cups. The espresso machine measures 9-1/2 by 9-2/3 by 12-1/4 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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5/10/2011

Cuisinart CPM-900BK EasyPop Popcorn Maker, Stainless Steel and Black Review

Cuisinart CPM-900BK EasyPop Popcorn Maker, Stainless Steel and Black
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Well, I surely gave it a fair try: popped 3 batches of various sizes, closely following all directions, using fresh popping corn from two separate packages. Results:
* Noticeable cooked plastic odor and taste in the popped corn - yuck.
(... when I returned it to my local retailer, the clerk told me he had noticed the same problem in their sample...)
* You like your popcorn fluffly and light?All three batches were denser and heavier than standard popped corn.
* Far too many uncooked kernels.
* Poor build quality: the base had a loose part rattling inside that sounded like a broken piece.
* Seating the hotplate into the base takes some getting used to. At first I thought I had it seated properly and the rotor moved, but the plate refused to heat, requiring that I reseat it repeatedly and very precisely to get the cooking element to connect properly.
It's a shame. I had high hopes for this product (I trust and respect the Cuisinart name - I have one of their food processors). I liked that it had an anodized heating surface - believing that should make it very durable. Results were terrible though.


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The Cuisinart EasyPop¿ Popcorn Maker puts the crunch back into homemade popcorn! Special vents in the popping bowl let moisture escape to keep popcorn crisp. Pops up to 10 cups in under 5 minutes, and keeps it healthier by letting you decide the type and amount of oil and salt you want. Operation is simple and cleanup is dishwasher-easy, so enjoy popcorn ¿ plain, buttered, tangy cheese or caramel ¿ anytime you want it, with Cuisinart.

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Click here for more information about Cuisinart CPM-900BK EasyPop Popcorn Maker, Stainless Steel and Black