Nuova Simonelli Oscar Espresso Machine & Coffee Maker

First let me say that I really like my Oscars! It makes a great shot, time after time, thanks to the heat exchanger (HX). And the steam capacity of this machine is awesome - you'll run out of milk before you run out of steam. Plus, it looks good sitting on the counter top (although it is a little large).

But for all that, there are things about the Oscar that drive me nuts. For one, there is no hot water dispenser, a standard on machines from every other major maker. For another, it's a hard pull to remove the water reservoir from the machine & if you try to fill it in the machine you're pouring water at shoulder height into an opening the size of a half-dollar.

So why do I own two, you say? Because it is a very serious espresso maker for the serious home barista. For making espresso shots for groups of people it is far superior to the Rancilio Silvia & the consumer machines from Gaggia.

Yeah so it's loud but wow, I am surprised at what this little baby can do. I have worked on commercial machines like La Marzocco, Rancillio, and the Nuova Simonelli Premier and the Oscar provides exceptionally comparable results. After a couple of mods with the portafilter spouts and the group head shower screen (had spare parts from my 2-group premier) this little lassy has proven herself worthy of any discerning caffeine guru. I wouldn't recommend this machine to anyone who hasn't been a properly trained barista--unless of course you have too much extra cash lying around--as it is very powerful and takes precision to achieve professional results. If you're looking for a good home machine or a spare for your shop and have been a trained barista, look no further--the Oscar is your best bet.