If you're really into home espresso drinks but don't want to break the bank, this is probably the machine for you. The MaraX is a popular "prosumer" model because it has the classic Italian stainless steel design, a small footprint, a relatively affordable price tag, and some clever buttons to quickly change some of your brew settings. We love machines like this because they allow you to get behind the controls of making great coffee without a major investment of money and counter space. In fact, one of our founders started out on a machine just like this. If you buy this machine from us, you're supporting Skylark's mission to explore how "good" coffee can be for everyone involved AND you'll get a nine-month coffee subscription for free — that's 2 x 250g bags of coffee each month. (Once the machine is purchased, we'll email you to sort out your subscription.) We're pretty sure that's the best deal around for value and quality combined and it's our way of making sure you have some excellent coffee with which to put your new machine to the test. If you need some barista training to go with it, check out our partner project, Pro Baristas. Here's what you need to know: It has the classic e61 grouphead that home baristas love, plus maple wood handles and knobs. Unlike other machines with a "heat exchanger," it heats up quickly (24 minutes) but the grouphead doesn't get super hot while idle. There's a simple button to switch between three brewing water temperatures, and another button to boost your milk steaming pressure if desired. It has a large 1.8L boiler and a 2.5L water tank. You can brew espresso and steam milk at the same time. It has a quiet vibration pump when you're making coffee. After a period of inactivity, the energy saving system puts the steam boiler to sleep. We know a lot of thought goes into buying a machine like this, so feel free to reach out with questions — we have staff who use machines like this. The manufacturer's data sheet is here. Further specs include: Dimensions: 22.5x52x35.5 cm (LxDxH)Weight: 18.4 kgAccessories: Proper tamper, 3 basket sizes, and cleaning toolsPortafilter: Commercial 58mm with maple wood handleLED lights: One to indicate when the water is low and one to show when the machine is heating/heatedVoltage: 220-240 V 50 Hz | Plug Type G (UK 3-pin)Gauges: A double gauge with both steam and pump pressureWands: Anti burn steam and hot water arms, with a steam boost buttonGrouphead: L58E with mechanical pre-infusion, lever activated brewingWater supply: Internal tank only
