Gaggia Syncrony Compact Digital Super Auto Espresso Machine - 9004 Review

I received this espresso machine for Christmas 2007, and have been extremely pleased with its performance.I've had absolutely no problems....once I learned how to use the machine properly.Note, there are a few websites that offer video tutorials on how to use this machine that are very useful.Note, I use this machine every single day...typically going through 14 shots of espresso (at least) since there are several coffee drinker in our home.We have almost entirely abandoned our previous coffee maker...not because we didn't like it, but because this machine is so wonderful.Here are a few insights:

1.This machine typically makes 12-14 individually ground espresso shots before you will need to empty the hopper.It's pretty easy and no big deal to do this.The grinder works flawlessly, and the hopper typically holds about a 1/2 to 2/3 pound of beans.
2.I have tried to use ground coffee with this machine, which doesn't taste anywhere as good as the beans.When I first got the machine, I tried using some "fine ground" espresso in the little door on top to make a cup of coffee.No espresso would come out the machine....it took a long time to figure out that it was clogging up the filter.I used slightly coarser ground beans with excellent results.
3.There are two buttons for making espresso - I refer to them as the regular and large size buttons.You can adjust how much water each button will automatically dispense very easily.
4.The steam attachment on the side of the machine works very well for both steam and dispensing hot water.
5.There is an automatic decalcification light that comes on to let you know to run the appropriate cleanser through the machine.I've figured out this light turns on based upon the number of cycles of espresso that are made versus actual need.No big deal....it's a good reminder light for maintance.
6.Thewater tank is pretty straight forward and lifts off for filling, although I prefer to lift the top off of it and refilling via a large glass/pitcher.
7.This machine is mostly made of plastic, but it's very solid and well made.The tray beneath the espresso dispenser is made of metal, along with the steamer nozzel.
8.I highly recommend watching one of the instructional videos for this machine.It does require learning very basic steps, which are explained well with the included instructions (they are outright cryptic).This is a very easy machine to use once you understand the controls.
9.If I could add a feature it would be a counter mechanism - because some days I lose track of my caffeine intake and I'm simply curious as to how many shots we've really made in total.

I've made at least 2000 espresso shots with this great machine.Overall, myself, my family, and my friends have all enjoyed it...and everyone wants one.I've converted many diehard regular coffee drinkers to more flavorful espresso.You decide....this machine isn't cheap.But some luxuries are wonderful if you can afford it.

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Product Description:
By combining the latest technology with sophisticated style, the innovative designers at Gaggia have created the Syncrony Compact Digital - a truly impressive espresso machine. This sleek machine is equipped with two boilers - one stainless steel-lined thermo block brewing boiler and one aluminum steaming boiler - to speed up the initial heating process and regulate the Rapid Steam System feature. The Rapid Steam System allows you to move from brewing to steaming with little down time, making it extremely easy to create luscious cappuccinos for your guests and look like a professionally trained barista. The designers at Gaggia also made sure to include a stainless-steel Pannarello frothing attachment, which will enable you to froth and steam milk fabulously every time. The Gaggia Syncrony Compact Digital's functions are controlled by seven push buttons and an LCD digital display that provides easy programming of all the options found on this state-of-the-art espresso machine. Featuring five temperature settings, an on/off timer and clock, and three coffee volume settings, the Syncrony Compact Digital is the ultimate in flexibility and customization. Additionally, pre-ground decaffeinated or flavored coffee can be added through the bypass doser - a quintessential feature on any super-automatic espresso machine. Specifications: LCD Digital Display guides you through the brewing process and provides alerts and programming information for: Cleaning and descaling based on water hardness Setting water temperature Pre-infusion and pre-grinding Counting the cups brewed Utilizing the automatic timer and energy saving mode Three programmable push-buttons brew based on the liquid volume you choose Automatic ground coffee dosing is adjustable from 6 to 9 grams Removable 44oz water reservoir Five temperature settings Conical Burr Grinder with 18 adjustable grind settings 7.5oz bean hopper capacity and 9 gram bypass doser Easily removable Brew Group Dual frothing accessories i...

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