bogeybutler Junior Member Joined: 1 Mar 2013 Posts: 6 Location: Dallas Expertise: Just starting
Posted Fri Mar 1, 2013, 12:25pm Subject: Silvia alternative
I have been looking into buy a Silvia along with the Rocky grinder, but have read several reviews about the Silvia and the temperature issues. I was considering buying the Silvia with the PID, but was not sure if that was still the best option for the money. I think I am sold on the Rocky grinder but just not sure if it is worth around $900 for the Silvia with the PID. Should I be considering other options?
CMIN Senior Member Joined: 14 Jun 2012 Posts: 500 Location: South FL Expertise: I like coffee
Espresso: Crossland CC1 Grinder: Baratza Preciso
Posted Fri Mar 1, 2013, 12:39pm Subject: Re: Silvia alternative
Don't bother with the Rocky, wide steps, and even when modded it's finicky trying to dial in. Look at the Baratza Preciso, or Baratza Vario for the $$.
Silvia isn't worth it new with PID added, that puts it within range of getting into entry H/X machines that will far out perform it, or even something like the Quickmill Silvano. Crossland CC1 has full pid control built in and a separate thermoblock for steaming for what the Silvia cost new. Le'Lit has a cheaper PID one too. And if you don't mind used, you can check the forums for sale like on here, or refurb models on reseller sites etc as you can end up with a killer machine for the the Silvia PID will be new. Problem with the Silvia is Rancillio has just kinda left it as is all these years at a high price for what it is, it used to cost almost half what it does now which made it a great offer before. Now others have been making better options with more function for cheaper or same price. Could even go Gaggia Classic PID.
Posted Fri Mar 1, 2013, 12:43pm Subject: Re: Silvia alternative
Yes, consider other options. The Silvia has a proven track record, but in all actuality, it is outdated. There are better machines in its class now. Try looking at the Crossland CC1. If your budget is up to the $900 range, check out some heat exchangers so you can brew and steam at the same time. Last time I checked, Chris' Coffee had an Oscar on their Buyer's Remorse page for $850. Also consider the La Nuova Era Cuadra or the Quickmill Silvano: both in the $900-1,000 range. The Rocky grinder is also outdated. For a similar price, I'd look at the Baratza Preciso. I own a Vario, and it is perfect for my espresso and pour over needs.
D4F Senior Member Joined: 15 Mar 2012 Posts: 1,189 Location: USA Expertise: I like coffee
Espresso: Gaggia Classic PID Grinder: Preciso
Posted Fri Mar 1, 2013, 12:44pm Subject: Re: Silvia alternative
Welcome to CG.
If you are willing to do the PID, then Gaggia Classic and DIY PID with Auber stuff. DIY PID not the kit for about $75 - $100, perhaps less, depending on what you have on hand. We can probably be of more help if you specify your experience and desired use. Drinks/day and drinks/session.
Yeh if you can find a used one and do the PID yourself to save money, that's a good deal for most home users not making a bunch of shots and milk drinks daily. But I can't see why some people pay for it new with PID added, if you can already spend that on an outdated machine, you may as well pony up a tiny bit more for the entry H/X and other machines that will way outperform it.
Definitely do not consider the Rocky. If you're doing research then make note of the dates of what you're reading. The Rocky hasn't been recommended for quite some time.
bogeybutler Said:
I was considering buying the Silvia with the PID, but was not sure if that was still the best option for the money.
If you're looking for value for money it isn't the best option. Again, consider the age of what you're reading. Years ago the pair would have been highly recommended but they're generally regarded as overpriced these days. Allocate more of your funds on a better grinder. If your overall budget is fixed there are plenty of other good SBDU's out there to consider. If you have some flexibility then, as stated above, $900 puts you close to the HX price range.
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