data0213 Senior Member Joined: 7 Apr 2012 Posts: 3 Location: USA Expertise: I love coffee
Posted Sat Apr 7, 2012, 8:47am Subject: Alternatives to Gaggia Classic
I'm just getting into espressos and lattes. My first machine was a cheap Delonghi EC155. The build quality of the machine is terrible (I have received two replacements from them already). I'm now in the market for a new machine. I'd like to keep this one for at least 5 years and I'm willing to spend about $500 (more if I have to buy a grinder).
Based on the build quality and community support, I narrowed my choices down to Gaggia Classic and Rancilio Silvia. My skills are not advanced enough to adjust the Silvia. So, I am honing on to a Gaggia Classic. Based on some of the reviews, I don't know if I should even look at some of the newer machines. But, I wanted to do my due diligence before purchasing.
Does someone have any recommendations on some of the newer machines that are out there? Here are some requirements:
Semi-automatic (I can't deal with automatics breaking and the price).
Good build quality - I'm done with not having a coffee machine for multiple weeks.
Standard portafilter (I had to run around looking for a tamper for the EC155 that was decent).
Decent frothing options.
I don't really care much about multiple boilers. But, I'll take it if I can get it at the price point.
I'd rather have an aluminum boiler (I can only spend longer time over the weekend).
diggi Senior Member Joined: 28 Nov 2011 Posts: 382 Location: Halifax, NS Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Spaz vivaldi S1 V2 Grinder: B Vario, OE LIDO Drip: Chemex, Espro Press,... Roaster: Poppery I
Posted Sat Apr 7, 2012, 8:54am Subject: Re: Alternatives to Gaggia Classic
Sounds like you already have it figured out. Gaggia is likely your best bet. But you are right, you will need a grinder. For this budget, you'll likely need the baratza precisio.
Only way you'll do better than the classic is if you are a) willing to spend more or b) find something used. Used HX machines occasionally can be found near the $500 price point. You could consider the crossland CC1. Has many great features that aren't found on the gaggia, but better value than any other machine at this tier.
Posted Sat Apr 7, 2012, 9:35am Subject: Re: Alternatives to Gaggia Classic
You could probably find a used Oscar at the ~$400 price that a Gaggia Classic would go for new. Anyway, I have a Lelit PL041 which is in the same tier as the Classic and the Silvia, and it's great. It has a brass boiler (which is usually preferred- I'm not really sure why you want aluminum. Aluminum is less durable and isn't as stable regarding temperature compared to brass) and a 57mm portafilter. It's still standard, but slightly harder to find accessories for than a 58mm PF. You need to think about the grinder before you think about the espresso machine. What's your budget for that?
D4F Senior Member Joined: 15 Mar 2012 Posts: 1,191 Location: USA Expertise: I like coffee
Espresso: Gaggia Classic PID Grinder: Preciso
Posted Sat Apr 7, 2012, 10:09am Subject: Re: Alternatives to Gaggia Classic
I just recently went the route that you are considering, dead Delonghi and replacement. I got the Gaggia Classic and am very happy with it. It is simple and parts are available when, if, needed. You can save on a used machine, or on one of the lower models, plastic case and some without adjustable OPV and some without 3 way selenoid. You can search OPV and 3 way on CG if not already familiar. The aluminum is quick to heat but some worry about the longevity of aluminum boilers. Gaggia has made them for a long time and many of the old ones are still around.
I also just got a grinder, Baratza Perciso, a great match for the Classic. I got a refurb directly from Baratza and saved some money there, it was $239 insdead of 299 new.
Since I just made the same choice, I agree with yours.
data0213 Senior Member Joined: 7 Apr 2012 Posts: 3 Location: USA Expertise: I love coffee
Posted Sat Apr 7, 2012, 9:02pm Subject: Re: Alternatives to Gaggia Classic
Thanks for the recommendations. Here are some answers and comments:
I'm looking to spend about $300 on a grinder. I was actually looking at the Gaggia MDF. But, the Preciso was also on my list.
The longevity of the Gaggia is what made me decide that it's ok to stick with an aluminum boiler. Based on my research, I found that brass boilers take a while to heat up vs an aluminum boiler. With my schedule in the morning, I'd like to have the option to make a drink quickly in case I forget to start it.
The Le'Lit looks interesting. I have never heard of them. I'll add that to my list of machines to research.
I do want the three way solenoid valve (I hate messes :) ).
I'm not sure if I will be touching the OPV adjustment.
I was looking at the baby class but decided that for $40 more I'd rather have the stainless steel body.
Again, thanks. I made the mistake of not researching my previous machine. This site is great for people wanting to learn.
diggi Senior Member Joined: 28 Nov 2011 Posts: 382 Location: Halifax, NS Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Spaz vivaldi S1 V2 Grinder: B Vario, OE LIDO Drip: Chemex, Espro Press,... Roaster: Poppery I
Posted Sun Apr 8, 2012, 4:32am Subject: Re: Alternatives to Gaggia Classic
data0213 Said:
I found that brass boilers take a while to heat up vs an aluminum boiler. With my schedule in the morning, I'd like to have the option to make a drink quickly in case I forget to start it.
You should put your machine on an appliance timer. It turns on 30min before you wake up and ready to go when you are; brass/aluminum, doesn't matter.
In this tier, you'll have people recommend all 3 of the machines for different reasons. Get the Lelit w/ PID installed for similar price, I think. The gaggia is usually found cheapest. Install a silvia steam wand for better steam performance. And the silvia is the most pricey (except in Canada, they are all pricey).
I'm just getting into espressos and lattes. My first machine was a cheap Delonghi EC155. The build quality of the machine is terrible (I have received two replacements from them already). I'm now in the market for a new machine. I'd like to keep this one for at least 5 years and I'm willing to spend about $500 (more if I have to buy a grinder).
Based on the build quality and community support, I narrowed my choices down to Gaggia Classic and Rancilio Silvia. My skills are not advanced enough to adjust the Silvia. So, I am honing on to a Gaggia Classic. Based on some of the reviews, I don't know if I should even look at some of the newer machines. But, I wanted to do my due diligence before purchasing.
Does someone have any recommendations on some of the newer machines that are out there? Here are some requirements: Semi-automatic (I can't deal with automatics breaking and the price). Good build quality - I'm done with not having a coffee machine for multiple weeks. Standard portafilter (I had to run around looking for a tamper for the EC155 that was decent). Decent frothing options. I don't really care much about multiple boilers. But, I'll take it if I can get it at the price point. I'd rather have an aluminum boiler (I can only spend longer time over the weekend). Not be too finicky.
I am not sure what equipment you need or already may have. I bought a Silvia with Baritza Preciso grinder from Whole Latte Love. With all the extras (foaming pitcher, thermometer, 3 oz shot glass, cleaning brush, CleanCafe, starter coffee (good for practice), the Silvia worked out to be less than $450 this way. I highly recommend it if you need everything. It has the 58mm PF, brass boiler and is stainless. Heats up very quickly, but give it 1/2 hour. I go down to the kitchen first thing, turn on, then take a shower. Ready when I get back to it!
It makes great espresso with the grinder, plus excellent microfoam. Gaggia users use Silvia wands many times for beter foam. Just get the Silvia!
I have also added a Hottop coffee roaster now, but used an electric hot air corn popper initially - fresh coffee is best no matter what you buy!
Dave Harley rider, Espresso drinker, Primo XL grill
I currently have the Le'Lit PL041TQE, which has a pre-installed PID for $549 from 1st-line. I really like it. It's got a PID, real steam wand, brass boiler, 3-way solenoid, and a saturated group.
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