DeLonghi BAR32 Retro Pump-Driven Espresso Maker - Semi-Automatic - Seattle Coffee Gear
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Is the magic gone with Mr. Coffee? Have you found yourself savoring the espresso drinks from your local Starbucks or Pete's a little more than your wallet would like? Not sure if you want the hassle of making your own shots but doubly sure that you can't stomach the hefty price tag associated with most semi- and superautomatic machines? Never fear, this retro-styled DeLonghi is here to be your rebound coffee maker as you untangle your long and stormy relationship with drip coffee makers and big box latte huts.
Sure, this pump-driven semi-automatic may not be the most featured or fancy guy to pull shots from, but he's reliable, hard-working, and has just enough oomph that you won't ever be tempted to caffeine-buzz dial your Mr. Coffee or favorite barista.
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Learn more about the DeLonghi BAR32:
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Pros
- Pod Convenience - You can use either standard ESE pods or your own ground coffee, but the pods make for mess-free convenience in the mornings. The machine comes with a starter package of Illy pods
- Frothing Wand - Many folks love the frothing wand, as it makes short work of fluffy foam! This can be a difficult skill to attain, so the frothing attachment is a big plus for cappuccino lovers
- Good Overall Value - Based on sheer quality versus cost, this machine appears to stand up well -- it's middle of the road, and taste reports are just enough all over the place to suggest that the machine likely caters best to those that don't love super dark and murky espresso
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Cons
- Tricky Filter Basket - Several users have reported that the filter basket has become twisted in the filter head, making the machine unusable. To avoid this, you have to be very careful not to twist the filter too tightly in the machine
- Weaker Espresso - The size of the portafilter and the overall pump pressure of the machine means that many users report a weaker shot. Substituting a super fine espresso grind only results in clogging the portafilter, so strong coffee is the result of more than one shot pull -- thus taking more time
- Customer Service Complaints - Many users have reported non-existent to severely delayed customer service and support of their machine from the manufacturer; some have been unable to have their machine fixed in less than a few months, others have been unable to get the right replacement part in a timely manner because it's on backorder
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How it Works
Each time you brew, you'll set the shot volume, dosing and pressure uniquely so you can easily tweak your shot to your preferences.
Read the manufacturer manual for full instructions on operation
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Care
For detailed care instructions, please refer to your machine's user manual. We recommend that you also incorporate the following into your cleaning routine:
- Descale every 2 - 3 months. We recommend using Dezcal.
- Clean the brew gasket with a cleaning brush daily
- Soap out water tank (if applicable) and drip tray every few days
- Optional: Perform backflush routine and clean the filter basket each week
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Features & Accessories
It may be a no-frills, beginner's version of an espresso machine, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have its merits!
Components & Functionality
- Entry-Level Simplicity: It doesn't get any easier to use than the BAR32. Sporting a pressurized portafilter, you will never need a high-end grinder to achieve consistent results.
- ESE Pod-Compatible: This Delonghi accepts ESE Pods with the pod-specific filter basket.
- Easy Clean: With a removable water tank and drip tray, you can easily keep the components clean..
- Dual Thermostats : A unique feature of the BAR32 is the separate thermostats for water and steam..
Included Accessories
- 18 ESE pods: For out of the box coffee goodness. Why wait?
- Measuring Scoop: When you're ready to use your own coffee, this'll keep things nice and measured.
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Tech Specs
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