chrish Senior Member Joined: 9 Jan 2013 Posts: 4 Location: buffalo Expertise: Just starting
Espresso: Gaggia classic Grinder: Baratza Vario
Posted Wed Jan 9, 2013, 1:28pm Subject: need help w first machine & accessories
So, here's my deal, I have a $500 amazon gift card that I'd like to use to get set up with my first machine and accessories and keep as close as possible to that $500 point.
My background: I currently own a Vario grinder and drink one cup of coffee a day either from aeropress or french press. I anticipate having one of either an espresso or americano each morning. My wife has a glass of tea each morning so I can get hot water for an americano from her. My wife will probably want a latte once or twice a week.
I am pretty sure my budget limits me to the Gaggia Classic which sits on amazon between $374 and $395 leaving me $100 for accessories. I can't afford the extra $250 needed for the Silvia and probably wouldn't for a year. I'd like to support site sponsors but I have a $500 gift card and not $500 cash. I'm in MD for the next week so I'd have it shipped here and not pay sales tax. I'd like to keep purchases to Prime eligible items so I can have everything before I leave.
So, with that in mind, I've come up with the following list:
sn_85 Senior Member Joined: 1 Dec 2011 Posts: 131 Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Quick Mill Andreja Premium Grinder: Baratza Vario
Posted Wed Jan 9, 2013, 2:40pm Subject: Re: need help w first machine & accessories
I wouldn't get the Update Int'l frothing pitchers. You'll want one with a little better spout, I'd look into the Rattleware ones as they're not much more expensive. I have both and the Rattleware has a much more pointed spout it and feels heftier in the hand as well. Also I would get a shot glass with measurements on them. When you're starting out you want to know how many ounces you're pouring so that you can be consistent. I doubt you'll need 6 shot glasses at any rate. Don't forget a tamping mat, timer (or use your phone), and a scale to weigh your beans. Also do the mod to replace the Classic's panarello wand with the Silva wand, it's only a $20 piece and will help you get microfoam better than any panarello wand can.
chrish Senior Member Joined: 9 Jan 2013 Posts: 4 Location: buffalo Expertise: Just starting
Espresso: Gaggia classic Grinder: Baratza Vario
Posted Wed Jan 9, 2013, 3:14pm Subject: Re: need help w first machine & accessories
Thanks!
The only rattleware pitcher that will ship with prime is this one with a thermometer holder so I guess that's what it'll be. I can't find any shot glass measures (that don't lose their markings in the dishwasher) that would ship with prime so I'll try and source one locally.
I already have a scale with 0.1g resolution and can't order a Silvia wand through Amazon so that will have to be for another day.
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