Hamilton Beach 40729 Espresso/Cappuccino Maker with Pod Holder Review

I've used this machine for two years now, and would buy it again in an instant. I'll add these comments to those previously written:
* Crema varies with coffee bean; shiney fresh beans give more crema and have more (but subtle) flavors.I don't get the best crema with Starbucks beans.Peets is great though, so is Nicholas.Even the generic beans ($5/lb when on sale at the local grocer) work OK.Remember, these espresso machines extract more flavor from coffee beans (than perk or drip machines); it's the nature of the pressure (vs temperature) process.
* For a great double shot (actually, 4 oz), I fill the fresh-grounds filter to level (not heaping) with whole beans, grind them for 8 seconds in a cheapo spice grinder, and tamp them (not too hard, not too soft).The tamped grounds come up almost to the #2 line in the filter.I run the pump for 30 seconds after liquid starts coming out of the nozzel.The machine has been turned on and heating for only about 5-10 minutes prior to this.
* I've used Starbucks pods.It does takes two (at 15 seconds of pumping per) to make a double shot.It tastes good (but not as strong as when I use fresh-ground.)Pods are quicker, but more expensive, than using grounds.You do need to be careful to press the pod in the filter so all water goes through, not around, the pod.Be aware that this machine comes with two different stainless steel filters; one for grounds, and a smaller one for pre-packaged pods.
* These machines use ***PRESSURE*** not temperature to extract flavors. This results in smoother taste, but not scalding temperatures. If you want your espresso law-suit hot, nuke it afterward.
* The included plastic tamper is too flimsy for the tamping pressure I've found works best; get a sturdier one (I got an aluminum one from a local kitchen store.)If you don't tamp hard enough, grounds float up and coat the nozzel that high-pressure water comes out of.If you grind and tamp just right, the used grounds will maintain their hockey-puck shape when you shake them out of the filter.
* Coffee mugs don't fit under the spouts.Its not like this machine will make enough espresso in one batch to come close to filling a standard 10 oz mug.I just want to drink a strong brew from a manly mug ;-)I've had to resort to using the shorter, dainty, coffee cups from the fine china set.(Don't tell my buddies.)
* If you're the analytical type, check out "The Complexity of Coffee" in Scientific American June 2002, Vol 286 Issue 6 p86.It contains good info you can use to perfect your brew.
* Use some of that cafeine buzz to clean the machine after each use, and it will last for a long time. There was a recall (on the older 40714 version) because some people weren't cleaning milk off the frother, which resulted in scalding when the plug of old dried curdled milk suddenly erupted. Use common sense, keep this puppy clean, and it will make cup after cup of great brew.
* The frothing wand is not the easiest to use, due to the funny angle, short length, and low height above counter.I had to search for a stainless pitcher of just the right size; 10 oz to the brim.Disclaimer: I don't use the frother much so this doesn't detract from my rating of this machine.
* After years of use, hard water deposits build up on the nozzle just above where the coffee grounds sit. I noticed that water was spraying, rather than dripping, from here (during cleanup). There's no need to run special cleaners through the machine; I successfully remove deposits by rubbing the nozzel with a hand towel after every use. It's become part of the espresso-making ritual.
* I've been burned on other items when chosing the cheapest, but not on this one.It has some drawbacks, but for the price I can easily overlook them. It has kept my picky self satisfied!

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Product Description:
Making cafe-quality coffee drinks is quick and easy with this Italian-style espresso machine, which features 1100 watts of power and a 15-bar pump. The unit works with ground espresso or pre-measured pods and offers simple push-button operation. Its 2-cup removable water reservoir is easy to fill, and the adjustable steam/frothing dial allows for quickly steaming milk for cappuccinos and lattes. For added convenience, the appliance provides a cup-warming plate, an "on/off" switch, a power indicator light, a thermostat indicator light, a pressure safety valve, and a removable drip tray for easy cleanup. Accessories include a measuring scoop/tamper, two stainless-steel filters, an instructional video, and laminated recipe cards. The espresso machine measures 9 by 7-1/2 by 11-3/4 inches and carries a one-year warranty.

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