A machine for serious espresso fans

We acquired the X-1 about six months ago, after researching prices endlessly. $500 is a serious financial hurdle for making our cappuccino . However, the cost of ownership is actually a lot less than you would think.

We lived in Italy for a while, and picked up the italian coffee habit. We make espresso every single day, and we found that we were wearing out the usual European machines (Krupps, deLonghi). After a couple of years (or less, the pump seals would start to go. Another $200 down the tubes. This was getting old. We located a new machine at eBay for $375, and it was the right choice for us.

When I get up in the morning, I want a cappuccino, and I want it NOW! If I can master this machine in my bleary 6 a.m. caffeine-deprived state, anyone can!

With the X-1, the pump develops enough pressure to make a respectable crema every time, even when you use ground Lavazza, instead of these horrificly expensive Illy pods. The block heats up quickly, and the steam is dry, high pressure and hot enough to foam the milk before you start getting caffeine withdrawal shakes. The drips after you pull the cup out are a lot less than the other machines we have owned, and the tolerances in to coffee holder allow for a tight fit even after a lot of use.

The water reservoir is a pain to fill, since it's in the back of the machine, and the machine weighs as much as a Fiat Cinquecento. The plug also prevents the unit from sitting flush against the wall. Minor annoyances though, when you factor in the looks.