This is one awesome grinder! I purchased it specifically because it is one of the quietest grinders on the market, but I was truly surprised just how quiet it is!
The adjustment knob makes minute adjustments easy, and the very first shot out of the box was so close to perfect that it was drinkable. I was expecting 5 or 6 sink shots to dial it in.
The portafilter bracket would not fit my 1959 Faema Faemina portafilter. No biggie, I just took it off. If I sandwich my finger between the basket and the button it centers the basket perfectly to receive the grinds.
I single dose in the supplied hopper with no problems. There seems to be little to no grinds retention. I may just keep the beans in the hopper instead of the freezer, because the process is now so painless I will be going through beans faster.
One espresso and two cappuccinos into it, I have to say this grinder really wakes up the flavors in the cup.
I am not a guy who can blow money on luxury purchases. This was a major present to myself and it was everything I hoped it would be and more. I do not need all the bells and whistles of the higher end mignons. I just need an excellent grinder that is quiet and easy to adjust. I really feel lucky to have found this grinder.
Any cons? Tiny little nitpicky things that in no way diminish how much of a great grinder this is: While the machine is heavily built and of high quality, the hopper is a little flimsy. I doubt it is polycarbonate, just very thin plastic. I expect it will have cracks in a year or two. The throat gate of the hopper is poorly fitted and flimsy, but it will do it's job if I ever need it. The portafilter bracket is either waterjet or laser cut. The edge is very sharp (i.e. unfinished). I scuffed up the finish just slightly when I knocked the burr off (I could buff it if I wanted to, but I won't be using it). Even with these few complaints, I would buy this grinder again in a heartbeat.
