jwark Senior Member Joined: 29 Dec 2012 Posts: 42 Location: TX Expertise: I live coffee
Espresso: Le'Lit PL041TQE Grinder: Le'Lit PL53
Posted Sat Dec 29, 2012, 3:38pm Subject: Would anyone mind giving a recommendation on what to buy?
I really don't want to spend more than $500.00.
I want something that will last and be dependable. I also want something that can make a lot of espresso at one time (up to 10 shots per session).
I don't care about it being fully automatic. It would be nice if it came with a decent grinder, though. Could anyone help? I keep buying things that break in about a year and I would really like to get something that will last at least a few years this time.
“It takes a big man to cry, but it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man.” - Jack Handy
What you are looking for is a $500 HX...which doesn't exist new. I'm not saying that it shouldn't or couldn't be done, just that right now it isn't. You can either head directly to the land of SDBUs or go about finding a used HX in your price range. My preferred used HX that can be had around $500 the Livia 90. There is also the Oscar, but I personally wouldn't drop $500 on it. You might look for a used Expobar. Try keeping an eye on the BST forum and you might be surprised what shows up for $500.
Posted Sun Dec 30, 2012, 10:53am Subject: Re: Would anyone mind giving a recommendation on what to buy?
If you need a machine AND a grinder for that price, I am sorry to say that you'll have to make some sacrifices. Even used, you'd have to settle for a good entry level machine, something like a Gaggia Baby, maybe, since the grinder is at least if not more important.
If you can stretch your budget by another $100, 1st Line currently has a sale going on a Le'Lit machine and grinder for $599. click here. I have the older version of this machine, and it's been going strong now for several years. A friend of mine has the grinder, and it works well for him. I usually make one or two drinks per day, but I have occasionally made 3-4 drinks (6-8 shots) back to back. While slower and less convenient than an HX machine, the Le'Lit is a solid work horse, and will certainly last you several years. Mine has.
ETA: there is also a used Silvia and Rocky combo on the trade board right now for $550 + shipping, which I bet will make it close to the same as the Le'Lit above. Both set ups are solid entry level machines and grinders that are very close, but just over your budget.
emradguy Senior Member Joined: 31 Mar 2011 Posts: 1,803 Location: Houston Expertise: I live coffee
Espresso: Izzo Alex Duetto II Grinder: MacapM4T, Macap M4, OE Lido,... Drip: Espro press; Aeropress Roaster: internet
Posted Sun Dec 30, 2012, 11:10am Subject: Re: Would anyone mind giving a recommendation on what to buy?
with exception of the 57mm pf, I'd rather have that LeLit combo than the Rancilio combo. For one, it's brand new from a reputable dealer who provides very good customer service. Another reason is the grinder is clearly superior to the Rocky, if not only for it's stepless adjustment. The LeLit machine has some other nice features, like the ability to check reservoir level without opening the lid. The only downside to the 57mm pf is that when upgrading, you wouldn't be able to keep any additional handles or baskets you may purchase to use with it...as most machines use 58mm pfs.
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