First, the Cuisinart DCC-1200 makes an awesome cup of coffee. Easy to use, easy to care for, and delicious coffee. I have seen some other reviews that call the Cuisinart DCC-1200 almost perfect except for 2 things. Some reviews say it is difficult to take the top off of the carafe. The problem people are having is that they are used to a carafe with a hinge on the handle that makes the lid lift off the top but is still attached. The Cuisinart DCC-1200 has no hinge and actually “locks” onto the carafe if you try to do the same motion in removing the lid. What you need to do is lift the lid off of the handle of the carafe first and it comes right off (kind of a reverse motion off the carafe). Second, the location for pouring in the water is definitely small and slightly inconvenient, but the carafe does not drip when pouring so there is no chance for spilling. >>> Read more