Elektra Nivola

Excellent handcrafted gem – I had different coffee machines before, but they are not even close to this one.Coffee extraction is much better, consistent, and you getting cream even from cheap coffee brands.Never had any problems and we are making 6-8 coffees every day.Handcrafted in Italy and with that look ist a .I love it..

This is a fantastic machine. Couldn't live without it – Has been used constantly for more then 10 years - at least 5 - 7 coffees a day. We are serious coffee drinkers. After being ripped off by "official" expresso engineers the first time we needed the seal etc done we have maintained ourselves. The parts have been easy to access. It is a beautiful machine, loved it so much bought a second one only to find my kids nicked it. Incredibly reliable, beautiful retro shape - not at all an ugly box like many other machines on the market. Heats quickly, don't need to leave it turned on all the time. Steam not a brilliant function but we don't like fluffy milky coffee, so never use it.

Bad – This machine was purchased after deciding to upgrade from a modest but competent Gaggia espresso machine. We went to a number of demo's where we could see different machines in action and try the different coffees and were impressed with the advice from Elektra reps and the way this machine worked. We got the impression that although expensive, the Nivola was one of the best machines on the market.

After prolonged ownership and use the Nivola has proven to be an unreliable and expensive machine to own with a number of returns to the importer/wholesaler for numerous repairs under warranty. Its ability to sometimes produce a fine brew is overshadowed by its questionable reliability, poor quality trim and extraordinarily high service costs.

At $1,800 retail there are better and more reliable machines around for under half the price. And for the same money far superior machines can be had. Anyone contemplating buying one of these machines should at least insist on an extended warranty. Or you will be seriously out of pocket.

I give it one star for looks and one for the occassional good brew. Without doubt, this is one of the most stylish espresso machines on the market with the capability, at times, of making a fine cup of coffee. An easy to use machine that can produce a fine creamy froth any barista would be proud of. The design of the water reservoir and cover allows dust and grit to get into the water. Cheap and nasty clock and a cover that will break after one removal and refit. The plastic windscreen at the front (rear?) is brittle from new and very easily broken. Expensive machine to buy and even more expensive to service compared to other similarly priced machines. $265 for a full service. Expensive spare parts. $160 for a plastic replacement windscreen. A globe for the "on" indicator $18. The same type of globe was purchased for 80 cents from a local electrical retailer.

Good – With the right grind, this machine has the power to deliver great espresso and provided you are hands on with maintenance gives no problems. Tip: the four nuts located around the group head can be loosened with an 8mm socket for removal and cleaning of the group and for replacement of the rubber seal. For simplicity of use and great style, I love my Elektra. The Nivola had a great style and I fell in love immediately. The pump is very powerful and delivers great pressure for a great crema and milk froth. The failsafe temperature sensor is handy as is the low water indicator As with the previous comment, the service cost is excessive. I haven't had any issues except for leaking group head seal. The service agent advised that full service plus seal kit = $280! Forget that... I found a compatible seal for $4.00! It does not have a hot water delivery system (and a host of other features)which is expected of a machine in this price range.