Gaggia 16002 The Espresso Espresso Machine, Black
by Gaggia
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Product Summary
Manufacturer: GaggiaBrand: Gaggia
Model: 16002
Color: Black
Product features:
- 1425-watt espresso machine with 17-1/2-bar pump and 64-ounce reservoir capacity
- Commercial-style chrome-plated brass grouphead and portafilter; self-priming pump
- Turbo Frother steam wand for frothed milk; simple fingertip controls; built-in cup warmer
- 2 stainless-steel filter baskets, coffee tamper, and 7-gram measuring scoop included
- Measures 25 by 13 by 12 inches; 1-year warranty
Kitchen and Housewares Reviews of Gaggia 16002 The Espresso Espresso Machine, Black
Customer Review: Best value on the market.
Summary: 5 Stars
OK - the negative reviews on this are pretty out there; they are either complaining about non-existant issues (um, 1 star from someone who didn't even BUY it? Becuase it supposedly doesn't come in 110? That's wacky), or have the wrong expectations of what this machine will do. The bottom line on this espresso maker is that it has the guts of their more expensive models (minus the 3 way solenoid, which has NO effect on how espresso is made) and IF you know what you are doing can make espresso as well as pretty much any model out there.
To over-simplify, espresso makers come with one of 2 basic types of portafilter (that's the thing with the handle you put the espresso grounds in). Pressurized or non-pressurized. The former basically pulls the same shots no matter what you do, as long as your beans are fresh and your grinder is good. The latter requires a bit more art and science. The tamp (compacting the grinds into the portafilter) is critical, and you can vary the way the shot is pulled with different grind size, tamp preassure and tamper type. This, while harder to do consistently, is the only way to properly hunt the elusive "God Shot".
So - onto this machine: Using the "perfect crema" disc is just silly, frankly. In fact, I don't even think there was one in my box. I do know what it does, which is to basically convert a traditional espresso maker into a pressurized one. But hey, if that's what you want then buy a pressurized one from one of the myriad manufacturers out there. However, if you want a model that will let you explore your inner barista, you need to buy a non-pressurized portafilter unit.
And for the money, there is NO WAY you are going to get a better deal than the Gaggia. In fact, there are a number of different models in the Gaggia line, all of which are basically the same until you get to the $500 one, which comes with the aforementioned 3 way solenoid. Sure, there are different designs, and some changes in the type of frother (don't bother with the auto-frothers) but the guts are the same, right down to the brass portafilter. I chose this particular one because of its water capacity and the size of the drip tray, which beleive it or not is a pretty big deal when you pull a lot of shots in a day, as I do.
The fact is, this machine is a beauty. Get good at it and you'll pull shots as good as ANY machine out there, and if you are a total tweek-head, you can even PID this bad boy (look it up...). But you want more? Go check out coffeegeeek dot com and read read read.
Synopsis: Want a machine that will keep up with your growing barista skills? BUY THIS NOW. Don't care about the art, just want quick fast espresso? Go elsewhere and pick a pressurized portafilter unit.
Oh, and either way you go, you NEED a good grinder (the Gaggia MDF rocks and is reasonably priced at $200), and you want FRESH beans - order online from one of the many fresh roasters out there; it makes an incredible difference.
Description of Gaggia 16002 The Espresso Espresso Machine, Black
The Gaggia Espresso is a great choice for an espresso machine in the low $200 price range. No other espresso maker will bring you the pump power, heating capacity, brass components and pure results at this price. Hi-tech performance combined with simplified fingertip control takes the guesswork out of making delicious espresso and cappuccino at home or in the office. Each cup will be creamy, tasty, robust and rich with flavor. Gaggia is in the process of rolling out a new Turbo-Frother wand replacing the metal frothing wand and sleeve. Your Gaggia may have shipped with the Turbo-Frother wand or the frothing wand. Both are designed to help you get great froth with minimum fuss. Includes two stainless steel filter baskets (one and two shot), coffee tamper and 7g measuring scoop.Espresso Machines
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