I'm a happy camper!

Author's Rating:

Pros: Easy cleanup.

Cons: Noisy.

The Bottom Line: 
If you can't justify the Isomac, buy a Sylvia.

Author's Review
I bought my Silvia along with a Rancilio Rocky grinder from http://www.1st-line.com/. While the grinder has been a source of frustration, the Silvia has been much better. The instructions for priming, preparing, and using the system were re-written by 1st-line, which was a life saver. The original instructions were translated from Italian to English, but may have gone through a couple other languages along the way -- they are confusing in the extreme.

I initially had some usage problems due to the placement of the pump on-off switch, which is right where my thumb wanted to be when cranking the filter basket assembly on and off. I would inadvertently activate the pump while removing the filter basket handle, which sent hot water and coffee grounds all over. I've since learned "don't do that".

The unit holds about a quart of water. Once I tried to fill the internal reservoir all the up, but there is a cutout for the pump supply hoses that goes about an inch down the side of the reservoir ... I ended up with a lot of water all over. (Yes, I am a klutz. Why do you ask?) The reservoir itself is plastic and can be removed for cleaning.

The process of frothing milk and making espresso takes about 8 minutes and requires re-priming and re-filling the internal boiler once the milk is steamed. It's a minor hassle, but I can deal with it. I have no experience with other similiar machines with which I can make comparisons.

The grate and pan under the nozzle is easily removable and cleanable -- nice!.
The only drawback for me (at this point) is the noise -- the pump seems rather loud.