Review on De'Longhi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine in Silver - Enjoy Your Perfect Brew Every Time! by Paulo Heisler

My absolute love for the Delonghi Maginfica ESAM3300 is hard to put into words. He's been a loyal cream-soaked friend and morning ritual for at least 8 years and the current unit I bought as a replacement last week (another ESAM3300) is testament to why I gave this well-built Italian colt a "super automatic" Espresso give dream. The machine is a solid 5 star rating. Yes, my old block seems to have finally failed. But 8 years of service + the fact that I'm ordering the exact same model should give an idea of the reliability and proven quality of this model. Yes, there are many newer models out there, but for this price point, the ESAM3300 is an all-round champ. Verdict: With very few tweaks and some good Italian or locally roasted whole beans, Magnifica consistently produces shot after shot of delicious espresso. This is WAY better than anything you can get at most coffee shops. I have always used many delicious Lavazza beans, including Super Crema. "Gold Selection" and others that work very well with this machine. Illy grains also go well with this excellent machine. The key is that the beans should be lean and fairly dry (like other reviewers here have said). Setting up the machine is a fairly quick affair after briefly adding water and setting the water hardness using the test drive included with Magifica. While this machine doesn't have any fancy LED/LCD displays, the unit is easy to use and gives effective control over shot power as well as size and fineness of the grind (I recommend reducing the grind slightly from the factory setting). The espresso quality that can be achieved with Magnifica will make you smile every morning - just like I have for over 8 years. In those years I have twice sent the car in for minor repairs - usually an overhaul of O-rings and seals. Our family used the car 365 days a year and we probably took at least 7-8 shots a day. agnifica will tell you when it's time to descale and it's a simple 30 minute process. I would say this wonderful machine should last 2-3 years with normal daily use before needing a more thorough service from the dealer for o-rings etc - priced at around $250. - $300. This was not a problem for me as Delonghi Magnifica was an impeccable performer and the lattes and espressos he was able to make were exceptional! Pros: GREAT COFFEE! Okay, I mentioned that before, but I promise you that the coffee you can make with Maginifica will be exceptional. The machine heats up quickly when switched on - about 3 minutes. The milk steamer is simply great and, with a little practice, can produce very fine "Myco bubbles" for perfect espresso drinks. The heater at the top of the unit works well and allows you to hold up to 3 cups of shots. The machine will tell you when you've run out of water, when the turbidity is ready to eject, and when the machine needs to be descaled. Cleaning the machine is also extremely easy. The main brewing unit pulls out easily and is easy to clean, as is the inside of the machine. Cons: The only negative I've ever felt is that the block is a bit noisy, especially when grinding beans. Apart from that - nada. Finally, let me state that there is no better fully automatic machine in this price range. Made in Italy - a time-tested and VERY reliable design - this bad boy will bring you and your family untold caffeine happiness for years to come. I have NEVER been so excited about a kitchen appliance. Delonghi Magnifica is really great.