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

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(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.

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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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Krups XP 4000 Espresso Machine, Black Review

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(More customer reviews)Well, I don't usually review products...cause some people who do are either way too passionate about their foam, or their kitchen or their whatever....and I don't care to be lumped into the whole lot.
Anyway, I just got the machine. I'm a darn tough person to please, and I'm fairly pleased. No hassles really. Made good n' hot lattes etc. no problem frothing milk etc. My only hangup is that there is no little lever or something to hold down the filter when cleaning the coffee out of it. I used to hold my old one down with my thumb and hit it against something to jar out the used coffee grounds.
The unit is really heavy, which tells me there is something inside...not just a $100 piece of plastic. Compared to my old Krups pump model, it is much more solid, heats everything more quickly and is easier to use than expected.
Let's face it. Anyone taking time to go through the hassle to actually make cappucinos at home is too spoiled for their own good anyway. I'm just thankful to be able to whip up a fantastic espresso or latte or whatever with this machine.
Now someone who really, really knows everything there is to know about crema and the oxygen content of "perfect" foam and whatnot...can write a review more helpful than mine. Enjoy.

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With a sleek look and simple-to-use controls, this 1200-watt machine makes cafe-quality espresso, cappuccino, and latte at the touch of a button. The machine comes equipped with a Thermobloc 15-bar pump system, which provides optimal temperature and pressure for extracting great-tasting espresso. And with its patented Perfect Froth system, the unit's steam nozzle precisely mixes steam and air to quickly froth milk for cappuccinos or lattes. Its large, metal, selector dial makes it easy to transition from brewing espresso to frothing milk. 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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Breville ESP6SXL Café Modena Espresso Machine Review

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(More customer reviews)Good espresso machine but the water container has a VERY bad plastic smell. The smell does not go away with repeated rinsing or use.

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The Café Modena produces perfect crema every time. With a 15 bar pump and dual-wall crema system, aspiring baristas can make espressos, cappuccinos, and americanos with ease. The machine comes with a stainless steel warming tray and a porcelain espresso cup and saucer set to start your own cafe out of the box. Includes a steam wand to froth milk for cappuccinos and lattes.

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Capresso 560 Infinity Conical Burr Grinder, Brushed Silver Finish Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought the model 565 instead because it is actually metal and weighs about twice as much as the plastic one. I wanted something solid. This one is. It sits vibration free on the counter while grinding. I tried two other grinders before this one. You will find negative reviews on them somewhere here.
I have been using this one for a couple of weeks now and LOVE it. It does a great job grinding the beans, even flavored, very oily dark roast, the bane of most grinders.. I found the right grind setting for my beans,gold filter and Krups drip pot after only a couple of tries. Makes wonderful coffee. I don't make Expresso, so I can't speak to that. There are five finer settings than the one I use and ten that are courser. I think most people could find one that would work for them. I don't clean it after every use as recommended. Maybe once a week or so. I've had no problems so far.
It's much quieter than any other grinder I've used and I have had very little static problem. Nothing a light tap on the side doesn't handle.
It's not perfect, but as close as I can afford. Bottom line: spend a little more and get the 565. It's worth it.

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For maximum aroma and flavor retention nothing beats the Infinity Conical Burr Grinder.Computer controlled special grinding heads cut the angles and shapes of the steel burrs to within 1/10 mm precision.Burrs are produced as matched pairs and are hand assembled in Switzerland for precise fit.The multiple gear motor produces the slowest grinding action of any grinder resulting in highest precision grinding from Turkish fine to percolator coarse.The Infinity is also the lowest noise conical burr grinder in its class.Timer can be set to grind from 5 to 60 seconds.See through bean container holds up to 8.8 ounces of beans and the tight fitting ground coffee container holds up to 4-ounces of ground coffee.Cleaning Brush and Measuring Scoop are included.The Capresso Infinity Conical Burr Grinder gas elegant, timeless and user friendly design.

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Krups XP4030 Pump Espresso Machine, Black Review

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(More customer reviews)After making cappuccino on steam type espresso makers daily for the past 12 years, I thought it was time to upgrade to a pump model. I researched pump types and decided on this model. Wow! What a difference! The espresso first comes out as a creamy light brown froth which then clarifies into a rich darker brown color within a minute. What a difference in taste! We use pure Kona and the taste is softer and smoother than we're used to. In the week I've used it, I haven't yet mastered the froth on this unit, but it's getting better and is probably a learning curve on my behalf.
Some pointers and caveats need to be mentioned up front for optimum performance and eyes wide open purchase:
1) This model is heavier & noisier than steam models
2) No decanter is included. I use a Pyrex measuring cup if making two servings. About 1/3 cup per espresso serving.
3) You must manually turn off the espresso control after the desired quantity is made, hence the measurement of 1/3 cup per serving
4) The water tank is removable--a nice touch. If it is not reseated properly, you will hear a very loud continuous noise as the unit tries to suck out water it cannot obtain. This is just a learner's tip.
5) While the water reservoir is massive, you can only make one or two servings at a time, unless the espresso is diluted. Making more is only a matter of placing the unit in standby, removing the grounds, refilling with fresh grounds and continuing the process again.
6) Always wait for the thump thump noises of the pump to stop before proceeding to the next step. This is usually a matter of several seconds, just don't be impatient!
7) Whenever crafting the froth, you must wait for the orange light to go out before proceeding. This is like waiting for the oven to reach appropriate temperature.
8) Alternatively, you cannot go straight from froth to espresso without first placing the unit in standby for a cooldown cycle. The pump will cycle for about 10 seconds. When it stops, you can proceed. This is only a cool down period.
9) For making espresso only, this unit is FAST!!
10) I am well over the age of 13!
With the above in mind, I hope you take the plunge. The price is right and the difference in taste is remarkable. If you're thinking of upgrading your steam espresso maker, go for it! The Holidaze are just around the corner!

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Passion. Precision. Perfection. The Krups heritage of German engineered coffee machines and food preparation appliances provides clear functional, rigorous design at the highest level of technical perfection, performance and quality. Working with leading European designers, the product series also represents the newest European designs yet maintains the rigorous and clearly functional characteristics synonymous with Krups products. Designed and built for those who continuously seek out new gourmet experiences and take pleasure in discovering and understanding how things are done well, the Krups range provides the tools that deliver genuine results, performance and taste. Inspired by experts and demanding consumers with uncompromising standards of performance, the new Krups series has been built with three key attributes in mind: Passion, Precision and Perfection. Specifically designed for easy operation, the Krups XP4030 is a 15 bar pump espresso machine. It is virtually "fool proof" and is equipped with a patented "Perfect Froth System" which makes the process of steamingand frothing milk for cappuccino or latte simple.It has a high convenience filter holder that accepts ground coffee for 1 or 2 servings of espresso as well as ESE Pods.The auto cappuccino system precisely combines the right amount of steam and air to easily froth milk.

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Mr. Coffee ECM21 4-Shot Espresso Machine and 8-Cup Coffeemaker Combo, Black Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this coffee maker a few weeks ago, and I enjoyed many good coffees since. I am Italian, and I find the espresso as good as a good espresso prepared with a moka. This is good enough for me, but don't expect a REALLY good espresso, the kind you can have in that special little bar in a hidden corner of an Italian city. I did not have any trouble with leaks anywhere, so far (as some reviewer complained about). Only small complain, the espresso sometimes has a "metallic" flavor coming from the high temperatures reached by the water container. But no big deal, overall I am happy I purchased this product so far.
P.S. I posted the review in May 2007 and I am writing this PS one year later, in April 2008. The machine still works perfectly, with no leaks. I have also used the milk frother several times, and it makes a pretty good cappuccino! Maybe I should upgrade my rating to 5 stars!
P.P.S. In February 2009, everything still works fine!
P.P.P.S. In August 2010, this appliance is still working great. Indeed I have updated my rating from 4 to 5 stars.
P.P.P.P.S. End of January 2011, all is still good! One added piece of advice: the following is probably obvious to most people but I keep forgetting to do it myself... When I make espresso for one-two people (which happens every morning to me), the sooner I turn off the machine, the more concentrated the coffee is. When I have 2 inches of coffee in my cup, the espresso comes out thicker and full of aroma. The many times I forget to switch off around this level, the coffee is still all right but it's significantly more watery (and if you wait to switch off until all the water is gone from the reservoir, that old burned metallic flavor comes out a bit).

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Ideal for entertaining or everyday use, this convenient two-in-one appliance can brew up to 8 cups of coffee or up to 4 cups of espresso at the same time. The espresso/coffee machine's removable cone filter basket and removable water reservoir provides easy filling, while its brew-strength setting accommodates individual preferences. And frothing or steaming milk for cappuccino and lattes is quick and easy with the variable steam control and swivel steam valve. Other useful features include a lighted "on/off" switch, a pressure safety valve, and a pause-n-serve function for pouring a cup midbrew. The unit's dishwasher-safe glass carafe and removable drip tray make cleanup a snap. A measuring scoop is included. The espresso/coffee machine measures approximately 10 by 12 by 11 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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Lello 1375 Ariete Cafe Prestige Coffee Maker Review

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(More customer reviews)I will give this five stars. Not the same five stars I would give something along the lines of a Gaggia Carezza mind you. This five stars should be taken as a rating relative to its price. If this were the same cost of the Gaggia I would probably have to give it a 3.5
I should note I prefer americanos, cappuccinos, lattes, etc over straight espresso. I bought this for a second house. If I were to be drinking a lot of straight espresso I would have bought the Gaggia.
One important detail which is not in the description is this unit will use ESE pods. The portafilter has inserts for single and double shot amounts, as do most machines. The single shot has a small ledge around it which is designed so it may be used for both single shots and ESE pods, with a pod fitting perfectly into the area created by the little ledge. This is a big advantage for those days when you are in a rush.
Construction. This thing is solid. When I ordered it I thought it would not really be steel, just chromed plastic. Well it is stainless steel. And the finish is beautiful. This has to be the most impressive looking espresso machine this side of $300. One plus of being so heavy is you don't have to hold it down when tightening the portafilter. Something I never liked about the lighter units.
Despite the description noting a rather weak looking 950-watt heater, I was pleasantly surprised by the speed at which it warms up. This had worried me at first, but now that I have it I have discovered no reason to be disappointed. While using the steam feature to froth it has enough power to be ready to pull a shot immediately with no need to wait. And after pulling a double shot it seems like it is ready in seconds for the next shot, well before I have time to remove the portafilter and get it cleaned and reloaded.
Another impressive feature here is the warming plate on the top of the unit. Once again, as with the 950-watt rating, I was expecting a rather weak showing on the warming front. Wow, another shocker. It works! I turn the unit on in the morning and prepare my first drink. Then I leave it on. Make sure at this point you clean the portafilter and place it on the unit empty. By the time you roll around to getting your second cup, the cups on top are nicely heated and the portafilter is warmed up as well.
The drip cup and water reservoirs are quite generous. The drip cup underneath the bottom plate even has an ingenious little pop up float near the back which raises with the water level. Instead of constantly pulling up the plate, you can tell if it is getting full by simply looking to see if the float is starting to pop up. What a nifty little feature!
There is one drawback. The portafilter is what Ariete calls their "Thermocream" design. The problem with this design is it is created to produce a "crema like" crema on the top of every cup. This somewhat hides whether or not you are doing your job right and the crema is a product of a good grind, good tamp, and good pull. I prefer the crema production to be a function of how well I doing my job, not a function of some little device that makes stuff that looks like crema even if it is not.
I would like to add that the Group Head (the thing the portafilter attaches to when you put it on) is not solid metal. Parts of it are plastic. But given the price I am not willing to deduct a star for this (or the Thermocream feature) as I would if I were comparing to the $200 machines.

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Constructed of heavy-duty stainless steel and simple-to-use controls, this 950-watt espresso/cappuccino machine makes it easy to brew cafe-quality coffee drinks. The unit's high-performance ThermoBlock 15-bar pump-driven system provides uniform and constant pump pressure to make a superior espresso with good crema and a frothy thick milk cappuccino. Its removable 2-1/4-quart water reservoir can be refilled from the top at any time during operation, and a cup-warming area allows up to nine cups to be warmed before use. Designed in sleek, attractive housing, the espresso/cappuccino maker measures 9-1/2 by 9-1/4 by 12-1/2 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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Breville BCG450XL Conical Burr Grinder Review

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(More customer reviews)I have used three grinders in the past 5 years, one blade and two wheel burr grinders, all broke or were dusty and noisy. This is the first conical wheel grinder I have owned and I cannot compare it to its comparable competitor, the Capresso, and I have only used it a dozen times or so, However, I am impressed by its quality, it is beautifully made and the huge reduction in noise was most welcome. The big plus...I set the timer, press start and walk away, no holding lids down, no coffee flying around etc. Just for the reduction in noise, its quality and the fire and forget operation makes it a 5. It grinds coffee very consistently and the grind is adjusted easily. Is it perfect? No. Two items I noticed. It has a 30 second timer...I need more time so I set it for 20 seconds and do two grinds...not an issue but for me, but wanted to tell you. Second, the ground coffee compartment is shaped in a manner that has insets so its not as easy to clean out and I have to empty the coffee carefully. Still I recommend this and am impressed. It is quality!I will provide a six month review to see if this maintains its operation.
After six months my initial views remain the same, a very fine grinder!

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Beautifully designed, this conical burr grinder features adjustable settings for various grind options. Choose from ultra-fine for Turkish coffee or large and coarse for percolators. The settings offer consistently shaped grinds and even extraction, which is the key to producing flavorful coffee. In addition, the unit's metal conical burrs preserve more natural bean flavor than blade drivers due to the slower grind nature. The grinder comes equipped with a removable bean hopper that holds 1/2 pound of coffee beans, and its stainless-steel/polymer base offers start and stop control, as well as an on/off switch. Other highlights include a variable timer with 10 to 30 seconds of grind time, anti-static technology, and a removable burr for convenient cleaning. The conical burr grinder measures 5-1/4 by 7 by 11-1/4 inches.

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Cuisinart EM-100 1000-Watt 15-Bar Espresso Maker, Stainless Steel Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this machine at a Kohl's for roughly $220. I think it's of an exceptional quality for the price. Positives: #1 Well built (it's actually quite heavy)
#2 easy to use, filters allow for a single or double shot to be made - also comes with a pod filter but I've never used it
#3 large water reservoir that has allowed me to make 4 or 5 espressos and steam milk too
#4 comes with a DVD that teaches you how to use it (much easier than reading the booklet) - this is especially helpeful if you're new at making your own drinks
#5 easy to clean
#6 has a warming plate on top (good if you need to make more than one double shot cups or two single shot cups
#7 espresso has a good taste (although I think this has as much to do with the quality of the coffee you're using) The machine actually does produce a good amount of crema for the price you pay
#8 Stainless steel frothing picture is just the right size for one latte or two cappucinos
#9 15 bar pump allows for more than enough pressure and for great taste.
#10 has a feature that allows you to get plain old hot water too if someone isn't interested in the espresso and wants tea/cocoa/whatever
Negatives: #1 the steam nozzle is too long - you kind of have to tilt the pitcher to get the nozzle out - this isn't a problem so long as you know so you can use less milk or you can place the machine so the nozzle can be used on a non-countered space. The nozzle has a good range of movement so this does help counteract.
#2 the distance between the portafilter (where the coffee comes out) and the drip tray is not very tall - I've found that I have to use a smaller cup to brew and then dump it into a larger cup if I'm going to make a latte and want to fit in a decent amount of frothed milk.
#3 you have to be really careful to not overtamp your grounds or you'll end out with coffee everywhere - this machine is a little pickier than I expected (and pickier than the really cheap machine this replaced). But, with that said, the taste is 100x better. You can catch it if you overtamp too so long as you closely monitor and make sure the water is coming out of the portafilter at a decent rate. If you overtamp, barely anything drips out. After a while you figure out how much is too much.
#4 - my biggest complaint, and this one is quite dangerous - There's not a great way of knowing that pressure has been released - this means that once your espresso is made and you're ready to clean out the coffee grounds you have to be really really careful or it'll explode the hot coffee grinds all over you and your kitchen. I've been seriously burned a couple of times. It might not be a problem if you're used to espresso machines (I wasn't when I first bought this one) or you learn to be super extra careful always.

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Enjoy a cup of espresso, cappuccino, or latte--hot, fresh, and flavorful--anytime of the day with this easy-to-use espresso maker. The countertop appliance delivers 15 bars of pressure for perfect results and can brew one to two cups from either ground espresso or a coffee pod. Use its stainless-steel steam nozzle and included stainless frothing cup to quickly turn an espresso into a cappuccino or latte. The machine's porta-filter holder with locking mechanism makes it easier to pump out wet grounds after each use, while its removable drip tray and cover provide added convenience. Other thoughtful details include a 53-ounce removable reservoir, a warming plate to heat cups, and an included tamping tool with measuring spoon. Housed in professional-grade stainless steel and embossed with the Cuisinart logo, the sleek-looking 1,000-watt espresso maker measures 8-1/5 by 11 by 12-5/9 inches and carries a three-year limited warranty.

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