malachi wrote:I think that it would be wise to first taste shots from each before speculating on the differences between them.

For what it's worth, I don't mean to suggest that my opinion is anything like the final word--or even particularly specific--as regards the paddle group. I've only been exposed to a prototype machine to begin with, at various stages of prototype-ness. That said, my very informal experience with the mechanism is that it's a small factor compared to the overall design of the machine, the coffee, and the barista's skills. YMMV as always, and I certainly wouldn't discourage anyone from checking them out... they are certainly a clever design, and pretty nifty to muck about with.