Saeco Vienna Deluxe SuperAutomatic Espresso Coffee and Cappuccino Machine
by Saeco
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List Price: Our Price: $489.66 You Save: $185.34 (27%) Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days Category: Kitchen See more product details |
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Kitchen and Housewares Reviews of Saeco Vienna Deluxe SuperAutomatic Espresso Coffee and Cappuccino Machine
Customer Review: Great Machine Better Built in Obsolescence
Summary: 3 Stars
We've had the machine for over 3 years and yes, we use it every day. That said, when you purchase a machine at this price, you expect it to perform over the long haul when it is used every day for only two people. We have used it at parties, perhaps 4 times in the three years we have it and only to make 6 - 8 capuccinos or espressos. Nonetheless, it no longer pressurizes (Panel is no good). As perfect as the coffee is, we will be looking at other options.Customer Review: Vienna Deluxe produces excellent espresso, cappuccino, and coffee.
Summary: 5 Stars
We researched all the various machines and settled on a less expensive pod machine from another manufacturer. We found the pods difficult to find and the machine somewhat lacking. We returned that machine in a matter of days. Increasing our budget, we researched more espresso makers before finally purchasing the Saeco Vienna Deluxe in January 2004. This machine has been a pleasure everyday since.
The Vienna Deluxe is an easy machine to use. One should ensure there is cold filtered water in the reservoir, quality beans in the hopper, and room for discarded grounds in the bin below. Incidentally the used grounds are a benefit for gardens and lawns. The machine should be routinely cleaned to keep in good working order. Saeco created a machine that is relatively easy to clean and user friendly for the typical consumer.
The construction of this machine is made largely from plastic. One comment I see over and over and even thought myself was how much I paid vs. the seemingly low quality appearance. That being said, the plastic has not chipped, cracked, or been broken with normal use since we purchased it. This is a good quality machine in spite of my initial uncertainty.
When we first bought the machine, we went to our local coffee shop and asked them questions. We don't buy coffees from them regularly anymore, but now buy beans instead. They recommend that the beans not be overly oily as to not gum up the works. They also provide other recommendations for varietals based on flavor characteristics.
To get the cup of java that works for you there are a couple of dials to use. In the bean hopper there is a strength dial to control the amount of grounds used for every cup. A second dial in the hopper controls the coarseness of the grind. These settings are best typically set once and left alone if you chose to alter the factory setting. There is a dial on the front of the machine to control the amount of coffee desired. Adjusting this setting will give you anywhere from a one ounce shot to a 6 ounce Americano from one grind. Hot water or steam is chosen by a button and the turn of a dial.
The Vienna Deluxe is a big machine that demands its place on your counter. Being big isn't so much a problem as the machine sits on swivel base making access easy. Just be prepared to lose some counter space.
For the final proof in the pudding, the Vienna Deluxe produces great espresso, cappuccino, and coffee. Even though I live in the States, I prefer coffee in Europe. This machine consistently makes coffee that rivals any cafe in Europe.
UPDATE: October 2006
Our machine developed a leak and eventually quit working altogether. We took it to a local authorized repair shop who replaced seals and o-rings. After three days and forking out $110.00, our machine is as good as new again. Although I would rather not have had a repair bill, after virtually three years of daily use, the repair work was reasonable. The shop was friendly, and quickly serviced our machine.
PROS:
Makes consistently good tasting coffee/espresso
Biodegradable waste that is great for the garden
Fresh quality coffee made at the press of a button
CONS:
This machine is sure to spoil its owners
Cannot handle large quantities quickly
Customer Review: great machine
Summary: 4 Stars
My brother has one; he got it because my sister has one....so I had to get one - and I love it!! Great machine and easy to clean. I have to admit, though, after about a month of use and really loving the coffee, my wife asked me "Is it worth the money?"...the cost of this machine is very high compared with your standard 10 cup brewer, but I love it! And if you can part with the $$, I'm sure you'd love it too.Customer Review: I stopped drinking tea.
Summary: 4 Stars
I used to be a tea drinker, but since the first week of September, I've been drinking 2 cappuccinos a day!
The machine is SO easy to use and takes <2 minutes to clean every day. I had the "manual" espresso machine...but I rarely used it since I could only make 2 cups at one time & it took 15 minutes to cool down & 5 minutes to clean.
I admit, I watched the video that came with it, and I haven't had a single problem. It came w/ a 1lb bag of Lavazza Oro (the gold bag). The only thing you may want to order is a stainless frothing pitcher.
I agree with other posters that the machine is a bit big. In fact there's just a few inches clearance from the cabinets above. However, since the entire thing rotates, it's easy to load fresh water & beans. The size makes it an eye-catcher in my kitchen. Everyone who sees it wants to see how it works. The only drawback for me is that there is no bypass or a way load decaf. Some other machines have that feature.
I absolutely love it. It honestly makes me excited about breakfast!
Customer Review: Buyer Beware! Do Not Use J & R Music World to Order This!
Summary: 1 Stars
I purchased this espresso machine from J & R Music World on March 29, 2005, and after delivery, I removed it from its box to find a big dent on the side of the machine. The next day I called J & R and reported the problem. They told me to send it back via UPS ground, and they would reimburse the shipping charge. UPS picked up the box from my home, and I reported the shipping charge (of approximately $60.00) to J & R. They then told me that because I had UPS pick up directly from my home, they would not cover the charge! Also, the information on the outside of the box (they sent me) had 60 lbs. printed on it, so I had told UPS that it was 60 lbs. But J & R refuted that claim, saying it was no more than 30 lbs, and that I over-reported the weight!! They told me that at most, they would pay $27.00 of the total shipping charge, even though they NEVER told me NOT to have UPS do a home pick-up. J & R told me that they would have to look into it, and now more than 4 months later, I have STILL not received ANY reimbursement from J & R!!! So, WATCH OUT -- they send defective goods and they do not take responsibility, and stand by their promise to their customers.