Iluvdabean Senior Member Joined: 7 Mar 2005 Posts: 1,057 Location: California Expertise: I live coffee
Espresso: La Nuova Era Cuadra/Gaggia... Grinder: Baratza Preciso/K-A Pro... Drip: Capresso MT 500/Pour Over Roaster: Nesco 1010/Behmor 1600
Posted Mon Jan 28, 2013, 6:54pm Subject: Re: Gaggia Classic or Rancilio Silvia?
I have the Gaggia Classic and have used it everyday for five years no problem. It has an aluminum boiler with the heating elements on the outside fused into the boiler. Thus heating element corrosion doesn't occur. Its a smaller aluminum boiler and cycles very quickly.It has never come with an adequate steam wand and many upgrade with a Silvia replacement. Its a workhorse and built to last.Mine has been a faithful friend.
With all that said I would now buy the Rancilio Silvia based on its larger boiler and better steam wand. Its build quality is excellent as well.
One more thing though and that is the grinder is more important. Thats always mentioned here but many forget. I would recommend the Baratza Preciso or Baratza Vario.
calblacksmith Moderator Joined: 25 Nov 2007 Posts: 5,655 Location: Riverside, Ca, U.S.A. Expertise: I live coffee
Espresso: ECM Veneziano A1 Grinder: Many different commercial Vac Pot: 40s era Silex Drip: Milita, Bunn&Curtis... Roaster: Cast iron pan, gas burner
Posted Mon Jan 28, 2013, 7:32pm Subject: Re: Gaggia Classic or Rancilio Silvia?
The price range between those two machines is quite large, what caused you to pick them?
We rather try to match a machine and grinder to your expected use rather just give an opinion on A or B.
What drinks are you going to drink? How many drinks at a time How many a day Will you be serving guests How many What is your budget Does that include a grinder Do you have a line on fresh beans..... Not more than two weeks SINCE THE DAUY THEY WERE ROASTED!
All of these questions play into what we will recommend to you, there are more questions but these will get things going.
Oh, welcome to the board!:-)
In real life, my name is Wayne P.
Feed the newbs, starve the trolls and above all enjoy what you drink!
...and that's because best is highly subjective on any topic. It's not just a matter of comparing A and B but determining how well each one fits your needs/wants/preferences/budget.
Posted Fri Feb 1, 2013, 3:36am Subject: Re: Gaggia Classic or Rancilio Silvia?
I am not an expert, but I read a number of reviews of both machines. A couple of months ago I bought a Gaggia Classic. The Rancilio Silvia was out of my price range. Even if both machines were the same price, I think the Gaggia Classic would better fit my needs. From what I have read, the Silvia is more difficult to consistently brew shots with. You may get some better shots with the Silvia than possible with the Classic, but you'll likely get some not-so-good ones as well. I would rather get consistently good, than get a range from great to fair or poor.
That said; with experience, an excellent grinder, and a bigger dent in your wallet, the Silvia could probably work out quite well.
Something to consider; will others be using your espresso machine that may not have the time or inclination to become expert at it?
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