Okay, I did go to coffee geek and several other review sources, and ended up ordering the Nespresso umm... okay, now I can't remember which model it was! One of the more basic ones with the milk thingie separate. I was sort of tip-toeing the idea around DH and he said "What are you waiting for? Just get it!" So I did. There are few things we splurge on so I don't feel too bad about spending extra on coffee. After all, it's my favorite part of every morning :) I found the selection of pods a little confusing and overwhelming, so I ordered a variety so we can figure out which ones we like best. And since this is a decorating forum, I will also point out that I got the titanium color. My kitchen cabinets are cream, so I really was lusting after the cream color, but it wasn't available in the model I wanted. Sigh.

RightDi, I have a Pixie (titanium) that came bundled with an Aeroccino Plus frother. I totally love it and recommend it if you like lattes and/or cappuccinos. I wasn't even a latte or espresso drinker until I got my machine. Now it's the highlight of my afternoon! I originally bought the Citiz. When I got it home I realized it had too large a footprint for my kitchen and took it right back to the store and exchanged it for a Pixie. I live alone and it's perfect for me. Machines come with a good sample of coffees. I like a dark, rich roast without fruity, spicy or floral notes. I found two kinds I really like (Arpeggio and Fortissio Lungo) and that's all I buy. It works out, with shipping, to be about 70 cents a pull. I have one a day so it's not a budget buster. The frother is the best thing. There's another Aeroccino that is more bullet-shaped (it comes with the Citiz) but I found it harder to grip, so I'm glad the Aeroccino Plus came with the Pixie. Frothed milk is the best part. I do half heated milk, half frothed, plus a long pull, all in a big mug. I am in heaven.

Well when my coffee maker died a couple of weeks ago, I decided to try the new dual machine. The verdict is still out and luckily Sur la Table has a very generous return policy. The coffee and espresso are both very good (I have an older Nespresso so wasn't concerned about quality). I also like not having a grinder, plus the stray grounds, on my counter. My biggest complaint about the machine is that the coffee is not as hot as I would like it and I generally zap it in the microwave for a bit after brewing which is a hassle. I plan to use it a bit more and then decide to keep or return.

built in coffee machines (or really anything with a grinder) requires a reasonable amount of maintenance. Ground coffee is oily and powdery - it gets everywhere and sticks. I have a built in - i would recommend doing the suggested procedures, as it is the easiest way to keep it running. It can't be more than 30 minutes a week there is a reason why copiers breakdown in offices so often - it is the toner getting on all the mechanics