Those of you who read this blog, and are familiar with the Rancilio Silvia Coffee Machine - is this a good price?
I’m often asked for advice on what to buy as a first-time, home epresso machine. What would you recommend for someone who is buying their first espresso machine: the Silvia, or something more affordable?
I know that some people are going to say “skimp on the coffee machine, buy a good grinder”, but I fear that newcomers aren’t going to understand this advice until they’ve tried a blade grinder, and then a burr grinder.
5 Comments
That price is nothing special Dave.
And it would be a total waste if a user is trying to make decent espresso with a blade grinder.
A half decent burr grinder (minimum in my books is the Sunbeam EMO480) is absolutely essential.
Silvia can be a fickle mistress that challenges even experienced home baristas. I point espresso newbies to the Sunbeam EM6910 these days - generally easier to use, and no waiting for steam (which most people using single boiler, non-HX machines like Silvia find very frustrating).
Cheers
Thanks Neil, I thought you’d have some insights here.
Have you had any success with people who have a new-found enthusiasm for coffee straight into a burr grinder? I’ve struggled to win people over until they’ve languished with a blade grinder for a while.
‘fickle mistress’, ‘languished with’…love it!
Good to hear from you again, Ken. Sometimes it’s hard to tell we’re talking about making coffee, isn’t it?
Hi Dave,
nice blogging with you.
I’d purchased a Silvia several years ago in the hope that I could save money making my own, rather than buying coffee across the road. The coffee I had/have been making is pretty average. I have a good grinder. (Saeco) I believe the grind is correct, but my milk frothing leaves the milk watery and flat, not creamy at all!
Please help. Any tips would be appreciated.
Cheers!