My previous Cuisinart coffee makers were great machines, but they didn't have an external reservoir guide. I used to have to use a flashlight to look into the reservoir to pour in the proper amount of water. I no longer need the flashlight, and while it hasn't changed my life, the process is just that much easier. Coffee brews quickly and tastes great, and I'm a fan of the "Bold" setting. While my Cuisinart can deliver a robust cup without it, life is too short to risk brewing weak coffee. Cheers!