I can personally attest that the Virtuoso works well for espresso, WHEN your needed grind falls on one of the steps. As the beans age, you'll go through ~3 days where your beans will be in-between the steps and you'll need to updose/downdose to compensate.
While I've never used the Preciso, from what I hear it's basically the Virtuoso with the fine steps required for espresso and works well.
Only the most recent Virtuoso is the same as the preciso except for adjustments. Previous Virtuosos have a different burr set.
My limited experience with the preciso left me impressed. A preciso wont be as stout as the rancillio, and I was wary of purchasing a higher end baratza, but after abusing my virtuoso for over 4years I have a different opinion. I wouldn't hesitate on another baratza.
I got a refurb'd one around this time last year. I recently did have to replace the burr adjustment ring, they sent one out free of charge, after getting the old one out it appeared a small stone must've gone through the grinder as the adjustment screw to make either predominately fine through course had been pulled right through the plastic for a ways, which explains why I wasn't able to grind fine enough. Very impressed that it broke, kept working for drip in the mean time and the burrs/motor appear to be no worse for wear.
pilot25 Senior Member Joined: 7 Jan 2012 Posts: 93 Location: MD
Espresso: Rancilio Silvia Grinder: Preciso
Posted Sun Mar 18, 2012, 8:36pm Subject: Re: sub$300 espresso grinder
Got it!! Sorry for those trying to sell theirs. I can't do used or refurbished. Never could with cars or anything else.
Anyway, I can't wait till it gets here. If anyone has any first time tips I'd much appreciate it.
Thanks for all the help in choosing a grinder. I'm sure the Preciso is the right choice for me. I ended up seeing and testing the Breville Smart Grinder and I can say it is crap for espresso. I ground up a few shots worth at the store and it was too fine at step one and too coarse at step 2. Exact problem I have with the Capresso. Good thing I got on here and researched before purchasing.
I am glad you got to see it first hand, nothing beats seeing it with your own eyes. My husband is like your about new things. I however, like preowned stuff most of the time because I like a deal! Especially commercial grade stuff that is meant to last years.
Good luck.
Coffeenoobie
Buying advice: GRINDER GRINDER GRINDER. Don't cheap out on the grinder. My coffee treasure map... Click Here (maps.google.com)
You'll be very happy with your Preciso :) And to focus only briefly on the refurbished thing, I did want to point out that you get the same warranty. But I can understand your hesitation :)
I agree on buying the refurb preciso, I have one myself and love it. I'm seriously wonder what'd I'd do without it and how I went about my life wihtout on. You won't be disappointed.
Clumps or balls? I got balls when I was too find with my vario. When I got the grind right it looked better. Early blonding normally means grind finer.
Coffeenoobie
Buying advice: GRINDER GRINDER GRINDER. Don't cheap out on the grinder. My coffee treasure map... Click Here (maps.google.com)
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