Gaggia Evolution Espresso Machine - Black 16100

Authentic Italian espresso at an affordable price, September 5, 2005

After many happy (and dare I say, naive) years with our DeLonghi Caffe Espresso, it was time to replace our old workhorse. Having just spent the summer in Spain, where no bar is complete without the standard superautomatic Gaggia espresso maker, I decided that truly great espresso was a daily necessity. I was tired of incompetent teenagers /...read full review After many happy (and dare I say, naive) years with our DeLonghi Caffe Espresso, it was time to replace our old workhorse. Having just spent the summer in Spain, where no bar is complete without the standard superautomatic Gaggia espresso maker, I decided that truly great espresso was a daily necessity. I was tired of incompetent teenagers / college students who work at local coffee shops mangling something as simple as a cappuccino (one part espresso, one part milk, one part foam) into a milk-drowned latte with no foam.

I wanted something in the range of $200, with a dependable track record and plenty of power to spare. I waded through a myriad of reviews for the Gaggia Carezza, hailed as a champion of its class, but read a number of negative reviews concerning design shortcomings.

Enter the Gaggia Evolution. Although the Gaggia Carezza and Evolution share the same innards, the Evolution boasts several improvements in design. With its 17.5 bar pump and high wattage, dual element boiler, the Gaggia Evolution is ready to brew in around 5-10 minutes (I always prime the boiler first).

Design improvements over the Carezza include: a larger drip tray, a cup warmer (although, as usual, it's more effective to preheat your cups by filling them with hot water, which can be done during priming), anti-vibration mounts (once primed, the Gaggia Evolution is nearly whisper-quiet), and a brass commercial portafilter (the spouts on the Carezza were changed to plastic). My Evolution came with the Perfect Crema device (which is supposed to go under the single filter basket in order to create additional pressure/allow a coarser grind), but having read numerous negative reviews of the ineffective device, I simply left it in the box with the packing material.

Five stars for the instruction manuals and CD-ROM: the Gaggia Evolution comes with not one, but two instruction manuals: one from the manufacturer (Gaggia), and one from the North American importer (Importika). The Importika manual is intuitive, easy to read and injected with coffee humor, although the Evolution is not among the Gaggia models listed in the Appendix. The included CD-ROM walks you through setup in the form of short movies and narration, along with more advanced tips and techniques for coffee connoisseurs. We put our laptop on the kitchen table and followed along after unpacking our new Gaggia (thankfully, nothing was broken in the mail, as happened to several Gaggia Carezza owners). Although the manual hinted that your first coffee might not be potable, we'd followed various tips online (prime your new machine several times to remove any residue and plastic-y taste), and our first espresso was laden with crema. The Turbo Frother attachment made the creamiest, densest microfoam I have ever seen-it looked more like meringue (hint: use skim milk for best results). My only complaint would be the cheapness of the included coffee scoop, and you definitely want to invest in a better tamp for maximum extraction (the Gaggia takes a 58 mm tamp at a recommended 30 pounds of pressure).

If you're not in the market to buy a $200-300 grinder (Rancilio Rocky or Gaggia 8002 MDF Burr Grinder) to go with your new Gaggia, Illy makes a delicious, dependable espresso grind, available in tins (decaf, too) or Pods. The Evolution is Pod-ready, simply use the single shot basket with the portafilter. Tip: "classic" double shots should take around 20-25 seconds to extract.

The Evolution is a steal for the current price, since it contains the same innards as other Gaggias in the $400-500 range. Although it runs around $50-100 more than the Carezza, I appreciated the design improvements, stylish lines (I have a Tuscan kitchen with hand-painted ceramics and terra cotta tiles and was afraid that the "modern" styling would stand out, but the Evolution is much more traditional-looking and unobtrusive than the Carezza), and performance. (Note: the Evolution is also available in an all-silver model, but it will set you back another $50. The black model features a black base and sides and a silver front and silver drip tray.)

Excellent for the espresso novice or connoisseur, easy to use and clean, and it makes better espresso than some $500-1,000 machines I've tried!
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Superb value, nice design, some corners cut, May 20, 2006

After calculating exactly how much money I've forked over to Starbuck$ in the last 4 years in exchange for burnt-coffee-flavored milk, I decided to look for a tastier, "wordlier", yet money-saving option. I did give the Nespresso machines a hard look (those use a metal capsule and they are quick, clean, and the coffee tastes quite good), but I...read full review After calculating exactly how much money I've forked over to Starbuck$ in the last 4 years in exchange for burnt-coffee-flavored milk, I decided to look for a tastier, "wordlier", yet money-saving option. I did give the Nespresso machines a hard look (those use a metal capsule and they are quick, clean, and the coffee tastes quite good), but I eventually decided against them because the capsules are somewhat expensive ($0.50/piece plus shipping), and only available in a few different "beans". A regular espresso machine, such as this Gaggia model, opens up the world of exotic coffees and the pleasure of preparing them.

On to the machine. The black-and-silver design of this device would blend in nicely in a modern kitchen; I personally think it's quite stylish. Sadly though, the black plastic of which it is made is of the shiny kind, which does not only show every smudge or drop of water, but scratches easily when you so much as wipe it with a dry paper towel (think ipod nano). The drip tray is quite flimsy; not a problem but just screams "cheap". The only badly designed piece is the cup warmer: it's situated in the back half of the (slightly slanted) top, which barely gets lukewarm - unlike the front half which does get hot, but can't be used because it's rounded and your cups would fall off. Again, this is not really a problem, as you can just use hot water to preheat your cups, but it makes you think that perhaps they shouldn't advertise that feature.

Two things surprised me very positively. It's very easy to fill the machine with water; you just slide out the container to the left, even while you're making espresso. The other surprise was the milk frother. The steam "pipe" has a plastic attachment to it which contains air channels; some ingenious solution which ends up making perfectly frothed milk. A reviewer claimed that it doesn't heat up the milk enough; I cannot verify that statement, but then I only prepare small amounts of milk, enough for one or two cappuccinos.

The guts of this machine are impeccable. It's neither underpowered nor loud, all pieces that ought to be metal actually are, and it's serviceable. The manual explains how every few weeks you are supposed to unscrew a few plates and clean them, and perhaps use a cleaning solution for the tubing.

Speaking of the manual, it gives you all you need to know to make a good espresso; the cdrom even has helpful little movies that show how a good flow looks like (neither splattering nor just dripping, just an even flow for 25 seconds).

All in all, I am extremely happy with my purchase. The manual humorously mentions that "your first espresso is probably not very good". Well, mine was delicious. Meanwhile, I've gotten my espresso routine down and find that it doesn't take much time at all to make a good cup, certainly less than waiting in line twice at Starbucks.

By the way, you will end up owning a burr-type grinder, too. Beans last longer than pre-ground coffee before things turn bitter. minimize

Not perfect, but a solid machine that you'll like, March 5, 2008

I've had this unit for about 10 weeks now. I've made over 100 shots of espresso in that time.

Pros:
- Plenty of pressure. Has no problem extracting a double shot of espresso in 25 seconds provided you have your grind setting correct.
- Serious steam wand pressure. Easily takes 8 oz. of milk up to 150 degrees...read full review I've had this unit for about 10 weeks now. I've made over 100 shots of espresso in that time.

Pros:
- Plenty of pressure. Has no problem extracting a double shot of espresso in 25 seconds provided you have your grind setting correct.
- Serious steam wand pressure. Easily takes 8 oz. of milk up to 150 degrees (and would easily go beyond if I let it) in under a minute, with a lot of foam (can easily double or triple the milk volume in that time).
- Easy to use. One button to start warmup, one button to draw the shots of espresso, and one button to produce steam for the wand. Dial to adjust steam amount. 15 seconds from pressing the steam button to having lots of pressure available at the wand.
- Produces nice espresso. With fresh beans and the right grind (burr grinder a must; you -will- get poor results with a blade grinder), really nice shots with lots of crema. The temp is right, it's not watery and it's not bitter/burnt. With old beans or a poor grind, still makes average to good shots.
- Perfect Froth wand. Purists hate this and insist that you should change out the steam wand with a standard one (which will work fine - check out forums on wholelattelove for the recommended replacement part). However, I actually like the froth wand. While I do like taking the purist approach to frothing sometimes, on some mornings I just want a pitcher full of froth without having to think about it, and the Perfect Froth wand will deliver that every time.
- Cleanup easy. Can clean up in a minute (bang out the coffee puck, rinse head under water, pop off Perfect Frother, rinse that, blast of steam out the wand, wipe the wand down, rinse out frothing pitcher, done.)
- Warmup time. Ready to use in as little as 5-6 minutes. By the time I've ground the coffee, got the milk out, prepared the frothing pitcher, found my mug, put a flavor shot in it, and run a blank shot through the unit (to get fresh water in the pump and heat up the head and glasses), it's pretty much ready to go. If you have time, give it 10 minutes to be sure, but works with 5-6 in a pinch.

Cons
- Can be drippy. I empty the drip tray twice a week, that's with making 2-4 shots per day. Doesn't really bother me.
- Water tank could be larger. Refill every 3-4 days. Slightly awkward to slide full tank back into place and manage the intake tubes. (Not really a big deal, may splash a few drops of water on you)
- Perfect crema device - could never get it to fit in the head, but haven't needed it. Unit generates good crema as-is.
- Casing not as sturdy as it could be. It does flex a bit as I'm tightening the head. Filter head handle has a little play in it.
- Tamper is cheap plastic. I bought an aluminum one from Amazon.

Of the cons, the only ones that concern/annoy me are the slightly small water tank size, and to a lesser extent, the sturdiness of the casing. The other things are either to be expected, easily remedied, or easily ignored. People complain about the unit being drippy, but I'd rather have that than a unit with too little pressure - it's the residual pressure that causes the drips. That's what a drip tray is for. Espresso is a slightly messy hobby, it comes with the territory.

Overall I am extremely happy with the unit. The internals are identical to units much more expensive. Results are consistent each time. The unit isn't fussy; it's fairly forgiving if I rush it in the morning or use older beans.

This is a great unit to graduate up to from an entry-level unit, when you start to get serious about making espresso and espresso drinks. For the price, the quality can't be beat. I researched units for about six months before I bought, and I am very happy with the decision.

Final note - you definitely also should consider getting a burr grinder if you don't already have one. You can't generate the consistency and fineness of the grind with a blade grinder, and if you buy pre-ground beans, that'll work in a pinch but you'll lose a lot of flavor and crema within minutes of grinding. Since buying this unit and a burr grinder, I now buy my espresso blends from local roasters directly because I finally have a unit where the quality of the beans does show through. minimize

A step up, December 27, 2005

Uh-oh looks like they are getting some bad feedback over the holidays...
Anyway, I have had my Evolution for a few months now and I really like it. This machine is replacing my old, cheap Krups model which served me well for a long time. I think it's a good machine for the price asked...there are not many in this price range to choose from...read full review Uh-oh looks like they are getting some bad feedback over the holidays...
Anyway, I have had my Evolution for a few months now and I really like it. This machine is replacing my old, cheap Krups model which served me well for a long time. I think it's a good machine for the price asked...there are not many in this price range to choose from it's mostly either cheap machines or ridiculously expensive machines. I have never had a ridiculously expensive machine so those of you that have may not want to buy this. For me this is a step up.
It is ready to brew really really fast, and it gets your coffee so hot, it steams your milk like a madman. It really is so fast and so hot...I love that! Be careful,it is so hot I burned myself on one of the metal bits...OUCH!
So, I think you will be happy with this purchase as long as UPS doesn't drop it off a building before delivering it to you.

Oh, yes, there is crema. And do me a favor, try something other than Starbucks please. I use Illy which is good...my favorite is Seggafreddo which I just can't find in any store...maybe I'll look online. But really, please, just try something different, you might like it, and you might help keep Starbucks from taking over the world!! minimize

affordable quality, January 21, 2007

I own two of these machines which is helpful because this enables me to generate espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Because different temperatures are necessary for each function, this improves the execution of each task, especially when I am making more than two lattes. Nicer, more expensive machines, of course, contain separate boilers to ...read full review I own two of these machines which is helpful because this enables me to generate espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Because different temperatures are necessary for each function, this improves the execution of each task, especially when I am making more than two lattes. Nicer, more expensive machines, of course, contain separate boilers to facilitate exactly this. Even for the $500 it would cost for two, you will not likely find a machine with two boilers, so it could make sense in a purely economical/performance related context.
The exteriors of these machines are nothing special, but the internal componentry is quite up to the task. The first thing that impressed me about the units was the quality of the portafilters. They are unlike any i've seen from ordinary cheap home units and are very heavy duty, die cast, solid. More like I imagine a good commercial grade machine to have, as opposed to any machines at or below this price point that i've seen.
These machines do a good job, and have lasted me over a year now with above average use, and I would recommend them to anyone who doesn't want to spend more than these cost. However, I have a few small concerns that I want to note:

-Make sure that the water reservoir doesn't run out of water while trying to make espresso. It's a small matter, but the intake tubes will lose suction and will struggle to create a new one after the reservoir is replenished.
-The frothing wand does a great job steaming milk. I get dense micro foam, as much so as i've ever experienced. However, the boiler expends itself generally after enough milk for one cappuccino or small latte is steamed. To replenish the boiler you need engage the button normally depressed for producing espresso and wait to engage the steam until the green "ready" light comes back on. This is crucial, because without doing this, the machine effectively runs out of steam.
-And lastly, take care not to lose any of the frothing wands' internal pieces. There are a couple of really small parts inside and I recently lost one of them thus severely hampering the wands' performance.

I would recommend these machines as the best that I've seen for this price. I've noticed other reviewers warning against them for espresso junkies, pointing out that they will not hold up to regular or heavy use, but I am calling these machines work horses. I use mine at work, where I am a kitchen manager for a small retreat center in rural Washington. While I don't use these machines in a commercial application, I definitely have used them on a daily basis for over a year, and have at times served espresso drinks/cappuccinos for groups: Having two of these machines enables me to crank out drink after drink which I've done for maybe up to 16 people at once. These machines have a lightning fast heat up time, likely as fast as any from a dead start.

These machines are obviously not meant for commercial use, but the point is that they would easily be up to the task for home use. They are cheap. There are so many other, nicer machines, but they also cost more. Check out the new la spaziale vivaldi II which retails for about $1900. It's small enough to fit on your kitchen counter top, runs on 110 volt current, and would be the home barista's dream machine. Personally I use an Expobar Brewtus II at home and it is everything I could ask for in a home machine. Now that is what I'm talking about. Look's like the Gaggia's are going to be staying at work. minimize