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New machine suggestions for the new guy - 2007/12/30 22:23So I'm in the market for a new machine. Was hoping you guys could offer some assistance. First I'll tell you what I currently have and what I'm looking for. Right now, I'm using a 2in1 DeLonghi (and it sucks rocks). It's time for me to stop drinking battery acid. With that said I realize that every option I'm considering is a huge upgrade.
I'm looking for a machine that will pull consistent espresso shots. Something that doesn't take too long to heat up and get going. Something that will look great on the counter... I like the industrial look just fine.
As for grinders, maybe you guys could tell me the advantages or disadvantages of doser vs. doserless. I realize the difference, but not sure which is better and why.
Here's what I'm considering;
Silvia/Rocky combo. It's an obvious winner but the fact that there's alot of playing involved to find the right temps/ settings is alittle intimidating. Also, heard that a PID is a must. Not very confident in doing this mod myself. Is there anywhere in the Toronto area that would do this for me?
Rancilio Lucy w/ grinder. Is this a step above or below the silvia/rocky combo? I like the fact that everything is built into one unit, but what kind of trouble might that get me into? I suppose upgrading the grinder down the road might make this machine alittle redundant.
Briel DOMUS DUE Stainless - I don't know much bout this machine but she looks awful purty! But it's a thermal block I understand it, and that isn't preferrable, correct?
Gaggia Classic or Gaggia Baby paired with either the Baratza Virtuoso Grinder or Gaggia MDF grinder.
I prefer to buy locally and the Greenbeanery has a good deal on the silvia package. Also found esspressotec and they have some good deals on the Gaggia packages. I went to the 'Gaggia House' here in toronto and their prices were SIGNIFICANTLY higher then other places, and wouldn't price match. The guy was pretty rude about it actually.
One last question for the locals. Where in Mississauga/Toronto can I get fresh roasted beans. The closer to Mississauga the better, but I'm in T.O. every once in a while so it isn't a big deal.
Sorry for the novel, but I just wanna make sure I get this right and don't regret a significant purchase. Thx. for your time!
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colin
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Re:New machine suggestions for the new guy - 2007/12/31 15:48The Silvia/Rocky combo is unbeatable - and you most certainly do not need the PID right away. There is so much growing that you can do with this upgrade that you can surf your way to espresso joy for a year or so before the PID might do you some good.
For those just joining us, a PID is a digital controller that keeps the brew temperature in a more stable zone than the traditional t-stats that the Rancilio Silvia (and every other espresso maker under 1200$) comes with.
For those still joining us, the T-Stat is a bi-metal thermostat that turns the boiler elements on and off as required.
The downside - it keeps the brewer temperature somewhere between 175 and 210 degrees! A PID can lock in on the ideal temperature of 195-205 and keep it there for at least part of the brew cycle.Colin is the Senior editor and creator of the CoffeeCrew.Com Website
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colin
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Re:New machine suggestions for the new guy - 2007/12/31 15:51For coffee in the downtown Toronto area:
Every Day Gourmet Coffee - at St. Lawrence market or Balzac's at the Distillery.Colin is the Senior editor and creator of the CoffeeCrew.Com Website
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Troll
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Re:New machine suggestions for the new guy - 2008/01/01 20:40Thanks for the help. I'm still torn between the Silvia and the Gaggia.
How do you feel the rocky holds up as a grinder? I was looking at the Mazzer but not quite sure I need to spend that kind of money on a grinder.
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colin
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Re:New machine suggestions for the new guy - 2008/01/01 21:27The Silvia has the edge on espresso quality.
The Rancilio Rocky is bullet-proof.
The Mazzer is nice - but overkill.Colin is the Senior editor and creator of the CoffeeCrew.Com Website
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Troll
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Re:New machine suggestions for the new guy - 2008/01/02 13:54Ok, I've nearly settled on going with the Silvia/Rocky combo. Now to decide on doser or doserless.
I'll be using the grinder once or twice a day. Which version is 'cleaner' so to speak? Or are both relatively the same in terms of clean up?
Thx again!
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Machiatoto
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Re:New machine suggestions for the new guy - 2008/01/02 20:31As a proud owner of the Rocky and Silvia, I purchased the doserless Rocky for easier clean up . And also wanting the option to grind beans for drip coffee, directly onto zip lock bags.. ie this Christmas I gave coffee as hostess gifts to my friends.
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Re:New machine suggestions for the new guy - 2008/01/05 22:57So I got the Silvia/Rocky combo today. Picked it up at the green beanery and they were a pleasure to deal with.
Took this bad boy home and set her up. And gotta say, my first pull was pretty terrible. Quick poor with very little crema and it was a real quick poor. I guess I should be tamping with more pressure?
However, I havn't gotten freshly roasted beans yet and was forced to use the stale store bought stuff i had lying around. I'm gonna pick up some beans tomorrow. What's a good starting point with my rocky? my absolute zero on the rocky is actually zero. The lady at the green beanery told me to grind at '2' or '3'. But i've also heard people telling me to move it back 6-7 clicks. Which is more accurate?
Thanks again!
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Machiatoto
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Re:New machine suggestions for the new guy - 2008/01/06 19:42Congrats, That's were I bought mine a few weeks ago before Xmas. I also got the stand with the knock box drawer...
My suggestions check out You tube and type Rocky and Sylvia. There are great demos online to watch and observe. From tamping to temp surfing.. and the 25 seconds shot..
I use # 3....on the Rocky Grinder... Practice makes perfect with your tamp. Did you get a stainless steel tamper are you using the out of box plastic tamper.. I Suggest you buy stainless steel one...
Definitely check out 'everyday gourmet' at St Lawrence market (downstairs) they roast their beans Saturday afternoon.... It was a pleasure talking coffee with Sara Lee...
I found some great espresso cups.. by bodum.. That really retain the heat...and make a wicked vessel for hot brew...
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Troll
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Re:New machine suggestions for the new guy - 2008/01/06 22:02Thanks for the suggestions, I've also got the stainless steel base as well. Bought it as a package. I've been on youtube and watched nearly all the vids. My shots are getting better. I'm on the number 9 setting on my rocky and am getting a 25 second or so extraction with a good amount of crema now.
And ya, I picked up a quality tamper. Wasn't impressed with that plastic throw in. And thanks for the suggestion, I'll check out the market for some fresh beans. I just grabbed a lb. from the green beanery. It was their choco espresso blend. Surprisingly good!
As for the cups, I'll keep my eye open for them. You can find some Bodum cups at Home Sense and Winners if you hit them on the right day and it's 50% off or more if you can find them.
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I am going with the Saeco Aroma. I just can't foresee the Silvia and a great grinder being in my budget before the summer :(
Thanks for the tip about grinders. I've been concentrating on espresso ...
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