Where to start with the problems with this coffee maker? I'm guilty of falling for its good looks even after reading the other negative reviews. First of all, the filter is not "permanent", it's a disk that you have to remove and rinse every time you make a new pot and it's only good for a month - you will need to order more. The filter basket has be removed completely from the machine each time you make coffee, no convenient swinging door here, and it will be a dripping mess each time, retaining way too much water with or without the filter in place. That basket will also leak each time you remove the pot to pour a cup, dripping onto the hot plate and down the side of the machine. The water reservoir opening is too narrow and it's nearly impossible to fill without water pooling on the top cup pad. This is compounded by a design flaw in the carafe, as it also leaks down the side each time you pour a cup. What a shame, because this is one of the best looking coffee makers I've seen. If you're like me, after about a week of denial you'll realize that you just can't live with this handsome devil!