This machine pulls outstanding quality shots of espresso; easily comparable to any you'd get in even the most exclusive coffee house. The only downside to the fact that this is a home version of a professional quality machine is that you can't dummy it. It's not a "push the button and get consistent so-so product"; you have to LEARN how to pull a good shot. It does take practice, but once you master it you will consistently surpass the shots that are pulled by the untrained "baristas" that work in coffee shops and espresso stands with the fully automatic systems. Also, this machine DEMANDS that you use a proper grind to pull a proper shot, so choose your coffee grinder carefully. They are not all up to producing a fine enough grind regardless of the cost. My previous machine was a Breville, which had a smaller brew head and was easier to pull good shots, but made MUCH less steam than the KitchenAid which is why when the KitchenAid came on Overstock at such a great price I snatched it up immediately because of the separate steam boiler.