JoeEkaitis's Full Review: DeLonghi DC312T 14-Cup Coffee Maker
I've resigned myself to the reality of coffeemakers that last only a few years. When we woke up to a coffeemaker full of cold water that should have been a pot of morning inspiration, we added a side trip to Target on our Sunday itinerary. The two criteria for the new coffeemaker: a timer and a basket that takes No. 4 filters. This DeLonghi fit the bill and was on sale.
It loses a star for its clunky timer which only advances a minute at a time, first at slow speed then more quickly, but earns back a half-star for its Aroma brewing option. By cycling the water flow on and off at 30-second intervals, the coffee develops a robust flavor reminiscent of perked coffee, but with the clarity and grounds-free smoothness of filtered. Yes, it nearly doubles the brew time but the 14-cup capacity should keep the java hounds at bay. To use the Aroma feature with the timer, figure on 2 minutes per cup and set the timer accordingly.
The entire lid swings open, revealing a generous pouring opening and an unusual "stair-step" water gauge. The filter basket is removable for easy cleaning and comes with a reusable nylon filter. I prefer paper filters and the basket accepts the No. 4 filters that fit our old coffeemaker. A thoughtful feature I haven't seen anywhere else: After all the water has pumped through, the coffeemaker waits about 2 minutes and beeps several times to let you know the coffee's ready to pour. Yes, it has a "pause 'n' pour" feature but, please, don't do that. You're stealing flavor from the rest of the pot. Your patience, especially if you use the Aroma option, will be rewarded.
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