truebenny Senior Member Joined: 27 Apr 2012 Posts: 21 Location: PHILADELPHIA Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Presso Grinder: Hario Skerton
Posted Sun Apr 29, 2012, 9:34am Subject: which do you prefer ?
Hello everyone. I am currently purchasing my first espresso machine with a grinder combination. I have set my price range and also have several grinders in mind. Please feel free to comment on what is crucial, lets just to say, for the selection of the espresso machine also ?
Total budget: ~$1000
Espresso machine: Rancilio Silvia CrossLand CC1
Choice of grinder(?): Ranclio Rockey Doserless Nuova Simonelli series; the "Grinta" or maybe the more expensive "MCI" Ascaso i-Steel I-1 Baratza Preciso
Excellent suggestion, but he'd be over his budget when adding a proper tamper, knock box, and cleaning supplies. I'd amend it by saying see if you can get a refurb Baratza Preciso...that will save you nearly $300. If you want, for $129, the Esatto attachment 9I have one) for your Preciso makes your Preciso a weight based grinder, liken the Vario -W...which I also own.
You'll have all the adjustability you need. "Noobie's" suggestion of the Oscar is terrific. It is an excellent m,aching from a performance standpoint. It's just not quite as sexy, as it's not the usual monolithic stainless a steel all around machine. Look at our BST Forum for used machines. An HX machine is much better for milk drinks than a SBDU like a Silvia.
Posted Sun Apr 29, 2012, 3:24pm Subject: Re: which do you prefer ?
You mentioned you were looking at a Silvia or the CC1. Those machines will work fine for 1-2 cups per day. I used a Silvia (with a PID) for 4 years and it's a solid machine. You're going to get a lot advice on which machine is best. Which one do you prefer?
truebenny Senior Member Joined: 27 Apr 2012 Posts: 21 Location: PHILADELPHIA Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Presso Grinder: Hario Skerton
Posted Sun Apr 29, 2012, 7:38pm Subject: Re: which do you prefer ?
dsblv Said:
You mentioned you were looking at a Silvia or the CC1. Those machines will work fine for 1-2 cups per day. I used a Silvia (with a PID) for 4 years and it's a solid machine. You're going to get a lot advice on which machine is best. Which one do you prefer?
I am leaning more towards the CC1 but also have doubts since ive read reviews on here that people are getting defected machines; given that it is still new to the market. However, reason why i prefer the CC1 is that it comes with PID-like built-in rather than the silvia where you pay extra $250...
truebenny Senior Member Joined: 27 Apr 2012 Posts: 21 Location: PHILADELPHIA Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Presso Grinder: Hario Skerton
Posted Sun Apr 29, 2012, 7:40pm Subject: Re: which do you prefer ?
Also, I am not really "new" just that my setup needs a REAL upgrade... currently i am using a Presso+Hario combo ,which in my case, is having corrosion problem with the aluminum parts =[
Posted Sun Apr 29, 2012, 10:41pm Subject: Re: which do you prefer ?
Yes, having a PID is a major plus for a single boiler. The CC1 is relatively new, so the feedback isn't consistent. You may want to talk to Seattle Coffee Gear to see what their experience has been with the CC1.
Another good PID single boiler option is the QuickMill Silvano. But, the Silvano is about $1k. Once you cross $1k, then you're in the bottom range of HX machines and close to the Breville Double Boiler. You're likely to experience serious "budget creep" as you look at all of the options over $1k.
When I bought my Silvia and PID combo, I intentionally stayed under $1k for my machine. I knew I would be upgrading in the future. So, I went with a capable machine that would give me time to figure out what my future upgrade would be. I was able to resell my Silvia after 4 years, which helped me fund my next upgrade.
If you want to take a more incremental upgrade, then the single boiler options are a great choice. If you're ready for a larger step, then moving to an HX or double boiler may make sense. Of course, you'd have to reassess your budget.
Posted Mon Apr 30, 2012, 2:10am Subject: Re: which do you prefer ?
If you are used to a Presso then steaming milk probably was a low priority. For 1 - 2 cups, PID, adequate steam speed another couple options are Ascaso Steel and the Le'Lit PL 041 PID - both under $700 at 1st Line Equipment and possibly part of a package deal with a grinder too if you ask.
I chew coffee beans with my teeth while gargling with 195 F water to enjoy coffee. What is this "coffee brewing" device you speak of?
emradguy Senior Member Joined: 31 Mar 2011 Posts: 1,706 Location: Houston Expertise: I live coffee
Espresso: Izzo Alex Duetto II Grinder: MacapM4T, Macap M4, OE Lido,... Drip: Espro press; Aeropress Roaster: internet
Posted Mon Apr 30, 2012, 7:49am Subject: Re: which do you prefer ?
I'd advise against the Rocky. It's wide steps make it difficult, at times, to find just the right grind fineness. I had one for several years and am much, much happier now that I don't own it anymore. People seem to be happy with the Preciso. I am very happy with my Macap grinders, though they're out of your price range, and you will find others who say it's overpriced.
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