I know that this machine has had mixed reviews, but the price was so right i went ahead with a purchase.
Reconditioned [looks like new to me] Saeco Italia, fully automatic, for $299 at Fry's. For an extra $50 I got a 2 year no questions replacement policy from them, which in my experience can net you an upgraded replacement a year or so down the road.
I have only had it since early November, but I love it, and have had rave reviews on espresso & latte drinks by a number of friends & relatives...
I have pushed about 5 lbs of beans thru it, I clean it once a week [takes about 10 minutes].
Just could not bring myself to get into the $700 to $1000 price bracket, too many Porsche parts on my list...
PS You can also find this machine at
www.wholelottelove.com