Customer Reviews

Aroma AEM-646 Espresso Maker

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I have had this machine for the past two years now, and every time I see it, I'm completely amazed at how much machine this is for the price. I've had the entire machine stripped down, and all the makings of an excellent espresso machine are there.

It uses a proper pump, a very nice aluminum/brass boiler, a sturdy grouphead, and best of all, an unpressurized portafilter! The casing is admittedly cheap, and this thing really isn't going to win any beauty competitions, but if you're looking to make espresso and you're not going to spend the $600 on a full tilt machine, then do yourself a a favor and get one of these.

Pros:
- Pump based unit makes proper espresso, unlike the steam units
- Absolutely SUPERB steam wand
- Rugged and reliable (I expected it to last a month, it's now 2 yrs old)
- Always get nice, tight, dry pucks after extraction
- No cheesy "crema enhancing" gimmicks, just good crema full stop
- Unpressurized portafilter

Cons:
- Second rate housing looks and feels very very cheap
- Switches (power and steam) are of questionable quality
- Small water reservoir
- Small waste tray
- Front control is stiff
- It's a little noisy

So, basically what you're getting with this machine is a unit that will easily outperform anything under the $300 mark. It's a gimmick free (very hard to find in this price range) machine that just lets you get on with the business of making good espresso. Take the time to get the grind right, and you'll be rewarded with perfect extraction every time.

Hope this was helpful!!!

Real pump, real steam, real espresso at a really reasonable price. This machine will produce espresso with good crema without any gimmicks. The steamer works nicely, but the arm is a little short to reach into all kinds of containers. It's bigger than you might imagine from the picture, but it is attractive and feels solid enough for a plastic kitchen appliance. I'm glad I bought it, and even more happy that I saved money compared to a prosumer machine.

This Machine is easy to use its well built I've had mine a month now nothing bad to say about it. its a great value at $69.00 it shipped from target and I had it in just 4 or 5 days.

R Lee