I've had my KitchenAid coffee maker for almost a decade with no complaints. I loved having a large capacity pot, a programmable timer so hot coffee was ready when I woke up, and the java was always flavourful. Unfortunately, there was a spontaneous overflow one day and coffee grounds got into the 'system'. I cleaned it as thoroughly as possible, ran several cycles of a vinegar solution, and still got grounds in the coffee. I decided it was time for a new brewer and started my standard research.
I ended up choosing a Braun BrewSense for its excellent reviews and ratings. It had all the features I was looking for and was well ranked by Good Housekeeping, not to mention the price was right compared to some of the models I investigated. I found it on-line, on sale, and it was delivered in a couple days (which was great since my 'back-up' French Press Bodum was not working out. I know those are loved by Europeans but they don't keep the coffee hot, don't make enough for my morning, and are such a pain to clean. They are also not good for morning zombies since they require actual preparation and effort and the coffee isn't ready and waiting when one gets to the kitchen, half awake!)
The 12-cup Braun is pretty standard with a gold tone permanent filter included (I prefer that it has the cone filter shape rather than the basket one on the KitchenAid) and pause anti-drip system, but I like that it also has a brew strength selector (regular or bold), an adjustable temperature keep warm plate, a charcoal water filter and a 1-4 cup setting for smaller quantities. There is a premium LCD display (with plenty of lights, it looks like a dashboard at night!) and a descale warning so I know when to clean it. While the removable parts are dishwasher safe I prefer to hand-wash everything to keep them looking nice - and in one piece! I'm sure I would break the pot in the dishwasher. I haven't checked yet about the availability of replacement parts so I want to avoid damaging anything.
We are delighted with the coffee this maker produces. Maybe it's because of the PureFlavor technology Braun boasts on the box or maybe it's because the appliance is new and clean, but the coffee is so smooth and flavourful, hot and aromatic. I hope this BrewSense coffee maker lasts as long as my old one because I'm really pleased with its performance so far. Good morning!
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