I have only been using the Athena machine for a few weeks, but I am very happy with my purchase.

My first impression upon removing the machine from its carton was that it was solidly built, as evidenced by the heavy duty cord, and the professional feel of the "Rapporto" brand filter. The water reservoir could have been sturdier, but is more than adequate.

Whenever a purchase I make includes an instructional video, I shudder, expecting impossible to follow set of mechanics. That is not the case here. After one viewing, and one or two passes of the simple to read instructions, I have been brewing fine espresso and cappuccino with ease.

According to the video and instructions it is imperative to prime the machine before frothing milk, and before pulling espresso. When making cappuccino, the process goes something like this:

First, prime the machine, which means running water through the steam wand, then through the coffee dispenser area. Next, wait for the machine to heat up (a light will go on) and froth your milk. Then the machine needs to be primed again. Now wait for the machine to heat up again, (another light will go on), and pull your shot.

This seems like a lot of steps. I thought so too; but after a few times, it really becomes easy, and you will get the hang of it. It does take some time, though; while you can pull a shot of espresso in a few minutes (prime once, pull your shot), cappuccino for two can take almost 15 minutes.

I go into this detail, because when looking for a machine, I had no idea how any of them worked. Some details would have helped in making my selection - hopefully this will help the next person.

As far as frothing milk, the steam is more than adequate, so with some practice, you will be able to froth milk perfectly. (It helps that I also bought the "barista" set from Starbuck's, which includes the stainless steel pitcher, thermometer, scoop, and coffee tamper. The professional quality equipment makes the job easier.)

Now that we have the mechanics out of the way, let's talk about the results.

The espresso is, by far, better than any at home espresso I have had before, and rivals any I have had at any coffee establishment (including Starbuck's themselves). The machine pulls a perfect one or two ounce shot with rich crema on top. Fine espresso with long after taste. (You can alter the length of the pull by holding down the button longer, but I use the machine setting).

Mix this with steamed milk for and top with foamy froth for cappuccino, and you'll never want to leave the house again.

Cleaning after each use is a simple wipe up withe a damp sponge or cloth. The included cleaning tool seems to work pretty well to scrape the grounds out of the dispenser. I haven't had the machine long enough to perform the necessary "de-scaling", but the process looks as easy as running water and de-scaling fluid through the machine.

Unfortunately, you'll want to hide the machine when the family is over for the holidays. Cappuccino for more the 4 or 5 people really becomes time consuming, and not much fun for the host. The machine is not really designed for large crowds. Perhaps pull after pull of espresso shots might not go too badly, but save the cappuccino for the intimate gatherings.

I am pleased with the machine. I have tried to find out who makes the machine for Starbuck's (for no other reason than curiosity), and my guess is the Italian company SAECO. Not sure if this is the case, but I believe SAECO makes fine products - this info would also help the purchaser's decision making. I have not tested more expensive machines, but in comparison it seems to do a very good job for a very good price.

Hope this was helpful.




Recommended: Yes