D4F Senior Member Joined: 15 Mar 2012 Posts: 1,200 Location: USA Expertise: I like coffee
Espresso: Gaggia Classic PID Grinder: Preciso
Posted Mon Feb 11, 2013, 9:42pm Subject: Re: Newbie needs help spending $700 on a machine and grinder
Looks like a pretty large jump from a Classic to the Livia 90. I do not know enough about maintenance of Livia to be of help. You could be happy with a Gaggia Pure, or a Livia 90? A bit of range in potential use and upkeep. Do you know reliability and maintenance costs and availability?
samsom_tw Senior Member Joined: 29 Jan 2013 Posts: 32 Expertise: Just starting
Posted Mon Feb 11, 2013, 9:58pm Subject: Re: Newbie needs help spending $700 on a machine and grinder
The cost of the Classic and Livia aren't far apart after shipping from the States to Taiwan. Maybe a $200 difference.
I've never owned an espresso machine, so I don't know that I would be happy with the Pure or the Livia. It's been a process of discovery and I'm sure that will continue even after I purchase a machine.
Do you know reliability and maintenance costs and availability?
D4F Senior Member Joined: 15 Mar 2012 Posts: 1,200 Location: USA Expertise: I like coffee
Espresso: Gaggia Classic PID Grinder: Preciso
Posted Tue Feb 12, 2013, 5:59pm Subject: Re: Newbie needs help spending $700 on a machine and grinder
samsom_tw Said:
The cost of the Classic and Livia aren't far apart after shipping from the States to Taiwan. Maybe a $200 difference. I've never owned an espresso machine, ...
The question does not have a simple answer for me. If you ask which is more machine for the money, the Livia. If you have problems with either what about your ability to fix? What about parts? The answer may not be the same in Taiwan vs US.
I see that you have posted on HB and you are getting answers without the benefit or bias of this thread. Research and choose wisely.
samsom_tw Senior Member Joined: 29 Jan 2013 Posts: 32 Expertise: Just starting
Posted Thu Feb 21, 2013, 1:09am Subject: Re: Newbie needs help spending $700 on a machine and grinder
Finally pulled the trigger. It's been really hard finding a decent machine at a decent price that won't cost a fortune shipping to Taiwan. I've learned a ton about espresso machines and I can't wait to learn more about making espresso.
Special thanks to the great members of this forum. Many of you have been a great help. A few have even exchanged emails with me in support of my search.
I had pretty much decided on a used Oscar, but couldn't find one that didn't need some work.
The Office Control is a new machine to me. It looks like this particular Expobar is ready for action and has some good mods in place. I eschewed extensive research based on the assumption that this wouldn't last long at that price.
After shipping to Taiwan, it will cost me $700. I also purchased the Vario grinder, so... yeah, I'm over budget. BUT, I think I did a lot better than the Gaggia Classic + Rancilio Rocky that began this thread.
I'd like to hear your honest feedback on the Expobar. Good choice? Bad choice? You won't hurt my feelings :)
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