Saeco Syntia - Is this Super Automatic Espresso Machine Worth It??

The Saeco Syntia belongs to the super automatic espresso machines category. For those who don't know too much about espresso machine types. There are basically, the

The Super Automatic espresso machines are so-called because of the tasks they can do. Super Automatic espresso machines can do everything from grinding, brewing, frothing and even self maintenance. It is truly the espresso machine for the lazy ones who do not want to to much other than taking out their wallets and splurge on a new super automatic espresso machine.

This Saeco Syntia is not that much different. It does everything from grinding, brewing, steaming, frothing and maintenance but what makes the Saeco Syntia so special? It is also a smaller version of the Saeco Xelsis (for those who know a little bit about Saeco espresso machines...)

1) Compact

There are a lot of monster-sized super automatic espresso machines like those from Jura or Gaggia. This particular model from Saeco is compact in size for a super automatic espresso machine. But don't be fooled by its size. It packs a punch in terms of making really smooth and rich tasting espresso. In real life, the Saeco Syntia only measures 10 inch by 16.5 inch by 12.5 inches. Not that big I must say. It would fit nicely on most kitchen counters without requiring too much re-arrangement of your kitchen furniture/utensils.

2) Built-In Ceramic Disc Grinder

The best and freshest tasting coffee or espresso comes from coffee beans that are freshly grounded. The ceramic disc grinder that comes built-in with the Saeco Syntia does just that and it has 5 different grind settings to give you specific flavours. Finer grounds are smoother tasting and not so bitter while less fine grounds are generally more bitter. Just play around with the settings and you will know what I am talking about.

Another feature that you will like is the Saeco Optidose feature that allows you to adjust the grind volume to perfection with every shot. This feature may require some trial and error to get that perfect volume. Generally, the more coffee you use, the stronger the coffee.

The Bypass Doser that comes with the Saeco Syntia also allows many different combination of coffee flavours to be made.

3) Surprisingly Quiet

I have never come across many super automatics that are as quiet as the Saeco Syntia. This espresso machine does everything much quieter even with the built-in grinder. Most machines make a lot of noise while they grind as if to make an impression while doing it. The Saeco Syntia is the total opposite. It is like the designers made it to sound humble while grinding.

4) Very Easy Maintenance

If there is one thing that I really don't like about using espresso machines is the fact that I will need to clean them up after ever use. Thankfully, the Saeco Syntia is not like that at all. Here are a few things that stand out that makes maintenance easy:

> The removable brew group makes it really easy to clean and maintain the brew group.

> Brushed finish means that fingerprint marks will not stay and a quick brush with any cloth will do. A damp cloth will be more than enough to clean the external surfaces of the Saeco Syntia

> Just use descaling products and the Saeco Syntia espresso machine will do a thorough clean. I would recommend using Dezcal or Saeco's own descaling powder.

5) Fantastic Tasting Coffee!

This is an essential thing. If a super automatic machine does not make good espresso, it is just not worth buying them at all. The Saeco Syntia makes you look like a barista while serving espresso to your friends/visitors. They will be amazed by the quality on it. I have personally done a comparison between a semi-automatic Gaggia and the Saeco Syntia, my friends could not discern any difference in taste, although one might make you look like you are working much harder than the other.

A pre-infusion system known as Saeco Aroma helps extract more aroma and flavour out of your coffee. Try the difference in your espresso with this setting off and on, and tell me what you think!

Even if you don't have any experience brewing espresso, after a short while using the Saeco Syntia, you will be able to get one of those smooth looking golden coloured crema with intense flavour guaranteed to satisfy your caffeine cravings.