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CoffeeCrew.com Discussion Forum and Guestbook
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Dave
Visitor
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Are 3-ways worth it? - 2006/10/18 07:56
I am currently in the process of obsessing over the purchase of my first real semi-auto espresso maker.
Characteristics that are no-brainers:
1. If you want a machine with the ability to produce near commercial quality espresso, get one with a commercial size portafilter (58 mm). Not that good espresso can't be made with smaller proprietary versions (at least from what I've read), but in my mind, going with a full-size is just a way of controlling one more of the "thousands" of variables that need to be agonized over when attempting to make the perfect shot.
2. Make sure it has a good strong pump (15 barr or more)
3. Make sure the internal water lines/boilers are of good quality/heavy gauge construction for reliability and heat retainment.
Things that are less obvious:
1. Are metal bodies are good for heat consistency (and looks) - but how much does this really effect the product?
2. Boiler size/material vs heating element size/wattage: Obviously a bigger boiler with a more powerful heating element is preferred, but this is not always important for home use. Plus, when comparing machines like Miss Silvia and Gaggias, the recharge time vs initial capacity are more a matter of personal preference than anything else - though for me, the Silvia seems to get the nod, if only because the greater boiler size means more steaming capacity - plus the Silvia seems to have a better wand...
3. ?
But getting back on topic: Are 3-ways really worth it?
It seems to me, at least when looking at the Gaggia line, that the difference between <$400 and >$400 machines is the inclusion of the 3-way solenoid valve.
I have read that this also release of pressure at the head group and allows the 'puck' to be discarder more neatly. But is this really worth the extra $100 or more (IE difference between Gaggia Baby and Gaggia Coffee).
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Dave |
2006/10/18 07:56 |
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dave |
2006/10/18 09:43 |
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colin |
2006/10/20 10:52 |
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