After modifying to get a finer grind it only gets an "okay" espresso grind, not great (~20 sec's). For same $$, my modified Baratza Maestro was better.
Positive Product Points
- Clean lines and simple to use - Inexpensive price - Pretty easy to Modify to grind a "bit" finer
Negative Product Points
- Grind NOT fine enough for a great espresso shot even after being modified
Detailed Commentary
I also own a Rancilio Rocky and the Breville was to use for making espresso at a vacation home. I like the styling of this machine and had high hopes for the modification getting it to the promised land. The day I brought it home from the store I tested to see how fine it would grind. The best it could do stock was under 20 sec's for a 2 oz shot. I immediately pulled it apart and performed the modification to get a finer grind (per instructions on another website). The Mod was relatively easy to perform and the machine went back together smoothly. The grind was somewhat finer but brew time only went up marginally (~ 22 sec range - passable but not great). Tried it with two types of beans I had at the house and was about the same with both. By tamping really heavy I could get it close to 25 sec's but not really what I was hoping for. Thus, I was able to get an "okay" shot but not a great one. I've modded both a Baratza Virtuoso and a Baratza Maestro previously and think both of those did better than the Breville. Worth noting that the Baratza Maestro is about the same price as the Breville, if you shop carefully.
Buying Experience
Pulled a 20% Discount Coupon from the Bed Bath & Beyond website and then went down to purchase the Breville grinder. No brainer and they have a lot of coffee stuff to look at. Much of it is mediocre (like their espresso machines), but they do have a pretty nice selection of travel mugs and Bodum french presses.
