DeLonghi BAR32 Retro Pump-Driven Espresso Maker

Do not buy this machine if you value your money and time. It is the worst espresso brewer I've ever owned and it is so bad that I'll never buy anything from DeLonghi again! I bought one of these and it stopped brewing about 4 months later. After a lot of grief with almost non-existent DeLonghi service "network", they finally replaced it with a new machine for me. The second one stopped brewing about 5 months later. What-ever! In both cases, the pump keeps trying but not a darn thing comes out. Give this trash a WIDE berth and go for MUCH more quality products, like Saeco!

(Posted on 4/24/13)

After reading a lot of reviews I was really excited to get this machine for this price plus the $20 rebate. I usually prepare my coffee with a French press and wanted to expand my horizons with making espresso. The first machine I received was defective, it sprayed water and steam from the boiler head. A replacement machine was sent out right away, however it was defective as well, this time no water would come out. I spoke with a technician and he suggested a refurbished Aroma, which I ordered and am waiting for. Although I had bad experiences with the machines, I had very good experiences with Customer Service.

(Posted on 12/28/12)

I am a latte junkie. I have had the little steamer style machines for years, and could never quite understand why I just couldn't get the coffee shop taste with the espresso, nor could I get the milk (soy in my case) to foam properly. After much research, I decided to pay the extra bucks and purchase this little pump driven machine. WOW, what a difference!!! It was a bit of a challenge getting the filter holder on the first few times. I had to hug the entire machine and give it a brute strength twist. The espresso turned out absolutely creamy delicious THE FIRST TIME!!! and since then of course. Oh and the lovely foam - HEAVEN!!! The clearance under the steamer and the boiler outlet is tight, so short steamer cup and shot glasses are the ticket. Just make sure to follow the directions first, and refer to them while you are using it your first time or two. the dual function dials can be confusing, but it really makes the unit work much smoother and more responsive. This really is a great price for this quality of a machine. It has already paid for itself in coffee shop bills!

(Posted on 7/23/12)

Even though our coffee place staff knows us by name, we wanted to be able to make our own on those lazy days when we didn't want to venture out. My son's girlfriend is a barista, and they own a similar machine (different style) at home and like it. They got us this one for Christmas.

Take the time to watch the videos from this website before trying to use a new machine. That helped me a lot. The first attempt was weak, but after that, with some firmer tamping, the shots were fine and creamy. The grind should be as fine as you can get. To make two lattes, I usually run a double shot through an empty portafilter to prewarm it, then I steam a pitcher of milk. After that, I do my coffee shots, making sure to let it have time to get back to temperature in between.

We like that this machine takes up very little space and the water tank is big enough to make two coffees easy. The tamper is awkward attached to the machine on the side, but other than that we're really happy with the machine. Give it a go!

Pros:
Easy To Use, Large Water Container, Beginner, Quick Brewing, Great Taste

Cons:

(Posted on 1/9/12)

This is my second Delonghi Retro. I have made Cappuccino with this little machine every day for at least the last ten years, and I find it to be remarkable for the price. It is easy to operate, fast and, in my estimation, produces great coffee. When the first one wore out, I didn't hesitate to replace it with another identical machine. I clean and descale about every 2 months.
I am so fond of with this little machine!

Pros:
Great Taste, Easy To Clean, Quick Brewing, Large Water Container, Easy To Use

Cons:
Eventually wears out

(Posted on 4/18/11)