CBTL Contata Espresso, Coffee & Tea Single Serve Machine

I already own Keurig and Tassimo single serve brewers. I added this CBTL Caffitaly-compatible machine because I heard that it brews better coffee and espresso than Tassimo's T-Discs. This intrigued me because I really like the new Gevalia Extra Bold T-Discs and strong, European-style coffees that the Tassimo brews (and I've never cared for Keurig K-Cups, which brew under very little pressure and taste weak). I felt guilty for buying yet a 3rd machine. But let me tell you, I love this CBTL Contata. It shipped promptly from Ontario, CA; double-boxed to arrive in perfect condition. CBTL coffee is both strong and very smooth, just the way I like it. And the espressos are excellent - far better than the Tassimo, which is best at coffee. You can order CBTL capsules from Cooking.com or get true Caffitaly capsules from Austria at meinl.com (FedEx from Vienna runs about $18). And now that Bed Bath & Beyond is carrying CBTL machines and capsules in their stores, you can buy them locally, as well. Check singleservecoffeeforums.com under "Other Single Serve Coffee Machines" for comments from other CBTL owners.

This machine is a compact, well-made device that can brew some very nice espresso, as well as a decent cup of American coffee. The machine is relatively quiet, and feels made to last. The reservoir is of good size and easy to fill. The coffee and tea selection is still sparse at this time, but I understand that you can import some very nice options.
tea: Excellent. A wonderful set of blends by CBTL. The English breakfast is very complex and full.
Espresso: Good crema, and a dense set of flavors. i have not tried all of the varieties, but the Italian Espresso is very good.
Coffee: a little better than a Keurig, but still not up to a good french press. Realistically, you need a lot more coffee in a capsule to do it right. I have to say that I am still impressed with the overall quality

I tried a more expensive espresso machine and NEVER was able to brew that great cup. I decided to take a chance and from the first cup, I was amazed with the quality and theease that I got my espresso. It also brews regular coffee and the machine is compact, nice, stays cleans and brews over and over the prefect cup. I told all my friends that this is a sure thing. No doubt you will not be dissapointed.