:::DeLonghi EC702 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Maker

The specs are very similar to my gaggia, 15bar pump, etc. The only drawbacks I can see is that it has a wet puck (the leftover coffee grinds in the portafilter after the shot has been pulled). This isn't a big deal and is to be expected in this price range, unless you pay for a machine with a triple solenoid valve that sucks the water out post pull, of which my gaggia at 600 dollars is the cheapest machine that has this feature. This wet puck can be easily remedied by washing it down the sink (unless on septic), using a spoon or letting it dry for awhile in the portafilter by setting it on the drip tray. Also, the shots don't have as much crema as the gaggia, but the gaggia is known for crema, you just can't beat it. Crema doesn't necessarily translate to flavor or quality, though. That being said there is crema and plenty of it. complete product review :: xsitejackets.com All in all this machine is an amazing choice and unless you want to come up with 600 to 800 for a Gaggia baby twin, Gaggia classic or Rancilio Silvia I would go with this machine. Just make sure you get a decent grinder (burr grinder) or get your coffee ground wherever you buy it. Its nice to have fresh ground coffee, it makes a difference. Pick a burr grinder up on craigslist if you live in a decent sized city or town. I love my 400 dollar gaggia grinder I got on craigslist for 50 bucks. I found the machine was warmed up nicely at about 3-5 minutes.