Jura 13332 Impressa J5 Automatic Coffee and Espresso Center, Matte Black

Not so impressed with the Impressa
I have had 3 cappuccino makers prior to the Jura J5 and have always wanted to own the Impressa J5. Well, this year I went out and got one and, as far as I'm concerned, that was my biggest mistake. It makes a good espresso, that I must say; and I love the cleaning process, but the milk steamer/frother system is definitely a design flaw. The second time I used the dual frother, the wand blew off and sprayed me with steam and milk. I called customer service and they told me that the frother needs to be properly cleaned (taking the frother nozzle off to clean it) and soaked in the cleaning solution each day after it is used. Well, I have been cleaning, soaking and rinsing that frother for several months now and it still blows off intermittently when I steam coffee, blowing milk and steam everywhere. I went to a local distributor and asked them about it and they told me that they have the same problem. Surely there has to be a better frother system for such a nice cappuccino maker?

It is a Good Machine
I had a Capresso C1500 for about 6 years. It started leaking and making weak coffee. So, I got the J5 as an upgrade/replacement. I have now own the J5 for about 2 months. It is definitely an improvement over the C1500.

Pros
- It makes really hot beverages
- Two types of frothing method: 1. Traditional way; 2. FrothXpress way
- Programmable everything (e.g. water temp, strength of coffee, amount of water..etc)
- Self-rinsing before startup and before shutdown.
- Convenience.

Cons
- Cheap Plastic Shell (Especially for a machine costing $1800!!)
- Extracting the espresso too fast. (But this is with all Super-autos)
- Does not have a traditional steam wand. (the wand came with it is not really a traditional one you find with other machines)
- Cleaning the wand properly after use. (You really have to soak it and make sure the little holes on the wand are clean. Or else it will not steam properly)

I think...

Phenomenal value in an elegant machine
Where to begin? This machine can do it all, from a strong shot of espresso to a flawless cappuccino, all in under minute. If you can tie your shoes, you can use one of these machines.

I looked in to this machine after using an older Capresso model at a friend's house. I was always impressed by how easily and quickly he could make a variety of drinks for guests, not to mention the quality of their appearance and flavor.

This machine comes with two different frothing systems, one is a more traditional bullet style frother, while the other can automatically steam or froth milk. This is where the J5 really shines. In no time you can froth yourself milk that would make the most seasoned barista jealous, and then push a single button to instantly brew piping hot coffee.

The machine starts with whole beans of your choosing and grinds them just for the drink you are making. This ensures that you'll get the freshest tasting coffee cup after cup.

What...

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