Don't mess with the rest, Miss Silvia is the best!
Positive Product Points
I couldn't be more happy making espresso at home than I am now with the acquisition of the Silvia
Negative Product Points
Lack of a water-level indicator other than opening the tank cover. Lack of an adjustable (angle) steam wand.
Detailed Commentary
Out of the box, I was already pulling better shots with the Silvia than I had in 6.5 years of using the Estro Vapore. Once I purchased the La Marzocco filter baskets (from 1st-Line Equipment) and a Reg Barber tamper (from wholelattelove.com), my path to espresso nirvana became much clearer.
Of course, the instructions are pretty vague, but with them, and the HOWTO's at coffeekid.com, I am consistently pulling better shots, and making the morning latte's faster than I had before.
My Estro grinder is definitely 1 or more clicks away from grinding beans fine enough for the Silvia, and I have been experimenting with different roasts and grinds from local espresso places. I need to get a better grinder to see how far I can progress with the Silvia.
Buying Experience
Very painless purchase, I would buy from them again.
