mark44 Senior Member Joined: 24 Sep 2007 Posts: 4 Expertise: Just starting
Posted Wed Mar 28, 2012, 9:45pm Subject: New machine recommendations appreciated!
Hi, my Breville Cafe Roma has just died after 6 years so I'm looking to get into a half decent machine / grinder combo. I've done a fair bit of reading on this site and would appreciate some tips on machines I should consider as a replacement. I'm mostly drinking lattes and americanos, enjoy a high quality cup but I don't see myself getting into the machine as a huge hobby. At the end of the day I mostly want a practical long lasting machine that pulls good consistent shots and is easy to use (making coffees quickly in the morning before work). My wife will also be using it and she just wants a machine that's easy to use and looks good on the countertop. Right now I'm looking at either a Gaggia Classic or Rancilio Silvia, what do you think? Are these good options given my requirements? Or are there any models worth considering?
I should also add that my budget is approx $700 - $800 for both machine and grinder.
Coffeenoobie Senior Member Joined: 11 Dec 2011 Posts: 2,314 Location: PNW Expertise: I like coffee
Espresso: N S Oscar Grinder: Vario W
Posted Thu Mar 29, 2012, 11:22am Subject: Re: New machine recommendations appreciated!
The main problem is cheap is not consistent you pay more for consistent. I had about your budget and I went used with the espresso machine (but I did end up fixing a few parts and maybe one more soon) and new with a grinder. Mine is not pretty and shiny but is much easier to clean. Also, and most importantly, it is a lot of bang for the buck and steams milk like there is no tomorrow. Something the 2 you named have issues with I understand.
Grinder most important- mine sells for 550 Used Oscar 475 (but I have replaced a pump and fixed a value and might have to work on the pstat)
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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