Buying a new machine.........

Moon · March 2015

on 1425695758:

Fear not Moon, if you are talking about the PV Lusso any commercial espresso machine repairer worth his/her salt will be able to work on it and you should be able to buy parts from the previous importer as long as he is still in business.

Cheers for that. Simplicity of design and not much to go wrong was an important factor when choosing the Lusso. Agree that any repairer shouldn't have a problem figuring out the problem and replace the faulty wiring even without a diagram - and not genuine. The rest is just ordering and replacing faulty parts. Would be handy to have a backup machine though. 8) Not sure whether Jack from Sorentina is still active or not. he'd still have a few parts lying around I'd reckon .. even if he's not. I will contact him and see how he's going. Last time he was in the midst of shifting house which was a massive event for him ... as it would be.

Cuir Beluga · March 2015

on 1425693247:

I'd definitely be checking out what the 2 local shops have .. with service and repairs to the machine being the highest priority after purchasing a reputable well known brand. I'd even ask to have a chat with the person doing the repairs to see which machines hold up the best with less issues .. availability of parts, cost etc. I'd also ask the repairer for their opinion of what they would get themselves, which machine they currently have .. and what grinder brands/models are suitable for the quality of the coffee machine. When it comes to build quality and reliability .. repairers are the best people to ask. I imported a coffee machine that wasn't available in Australia and doesn't have an Authorised repairer .. so, with hindsight .. this was risky and probably wouldn't do that again - even though I have bean lucky so far and haven't had any warranty issues. Forum Sponsors would be a pretty safe bet .. as they would want to be seen as doing the right thing .. which is in their best interest on a public forum. Personally .. I'd most likely get a Bezzera machine .. as I like the look, the build quality, the finish, and they are forum Sponsors. Some would feel they are a bit 'boxy' in their style .. only I don't mind that myself.

Hi Moon, forgive me I didn't see your post before. I will definitely be checking out the local places, we only have a couple of shops around and they both have stuff that interest me but I do want to keep my options open. To some it may not be a lot of $$ but to me it is so I don't want to end up regretting whatever I end up buying. Techs would be a great way to go, I am sure their input would be invaluable. Good on you for being brave enough to import one. When you look at what is available overseas compared to here it is actually quite depressing. On a side, my hobby/interest is high end and Niche French perfumery and sometimes I have to go through hoops just to source a bottle of something that no one has heard of here let alone be available :head:. I have no issues with dealing with forum sponsors I am just a bit concerned that should something go wrong it has to be sent back to them and then back to me and the resulting damage that may be done in transit. The Bezzeras are a tad boxy I think too. The Domus Galatea is a beautiful looking machine but just a smidge out of my price range

. My apologies again for missing your post, I tend to get a bit flustered at times and miss things :doh:. Thanks, Sue

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Cuir Beluga · March 2015

on 1425716316:

It should also be sent to you by email. Just make sure you click the link to reply via the forum. [emoji6][emoji106]

No email I am afraid

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Moon · March 2015

No email? Crikey .. does that mean no computer? How does a Silvia + a computer sound for the budget? (pssst --> iMac) When I was going through my Gaggia Baby phase .. the dream was a Silvia and Rocky grinder combo .. then when it came time to finally upgrade .. I leap-frogged past the Silvia and Rocky and ended up with the lever and a Compak K3 grinder. No regrets at all upping the budget for the gear I wanted. I ended up spending $1,650 for both .. whereas the Silvia /Rocky would've been about $1,200.. and that was a huge stretch to be paying for coffee making equipment .. for me. Up until then .. I was getting the Gaggias 2nd hand on eBay for $100 each.. and lashed out $140 on a new DeLonghi grinder. That's where I was coming from. Any coffee machine over $600 is unthinkable to most people .. and $500 on a grinder .. ? I'm the coffee nutter in my social circle. So yeah .. your $2.000 budget is a lot of $ .. yet most around here have probably spent (at a guess) from $2.5k - 4k .. for domestic machines and those involved with Cafes .. a hell of a lot more for commercial machines. For the home setup .. the large commercial grinders are popular. (too big for me tho) ps. On the cologne front, I'm still hanging out to get some Chanel Bleu or Allure EDT. I'm having to make do with Diesels - Only the Brave .. for the mo. I guess it's like the Silvia of Menx fragrances .. there are much nicer ones out there .. and I'm eyeing them off. 8)

Cuir Beluga · March 2015

I meant I didn't receive an email to say that I had a pm :D. My son was quite taken with the Silvia and the Gaggia classic and I admit to having passing thoughts about them but I know what I am like, in two months time I would be saving all over again for an upgrade. My budget has gone from $1000 to $1500 to low $2000s and now hubby has got more than a bit excited after seeing a Splendor and he doesn't even drink coffee :D. It was only a couple of months ago I said I wouldn't spend over $500 on a coffee machine. Yeah, right :P. My grinder I picked up a Smart Grinder Pro from Myer for $199 so I thought that was ok, it does a good job but I know it won't last forever. When it goes I will splash out on one but to be honest I haven't thought much/looked at grinders. Yay a fellow fumie, the more you look the deeper down the rabbit hole you go, once/if you discover niche you can resign yourself to baked beans every night for tea but at least you will smell good ;D. I am actually selling a lot of my doubles and/or triples and bottles that I no longer wear to fund the coffee machine ;D.

Brett H · March 2015

The Splendor was my first HX and I still rue not seeing it on my bench. Moreover, it is as capable as any of the domestic HX machines (possibly moreso than many due to build quality) just much, much better looking! Just do a search for that machine in this site for various posts by me!!!

Moon · March 2015

on 1425765662:

I meant I didn't receive an email to say that I had a pm :D.

Phew ... glad that is sorted :doh:

on 1425765662:

My son was quite taken with the Silvia and the Gaggia classic and I admit to having passing thoughts about them but I know what I am like, in two months time I would be saving all over again for an upgrade.

Yeah .. same here .. I've usually gone with saving up more to go better, rather than gradual steps. Suits those who are good at buying things .. using them and then eventually selling them - virtually getting their money back - i.e. not me.

on 1425765662:

My budget has gone from $1000 to $1500 to low $2000s and now hubby has got more than a bit excited after seeing a Splendor and he doesn't even drink coffee :D.

Sounds like he's happy .. to see you happy .. and that you're getting right into it and wanting quality gear. Nice . I like hearing of partners like that :thumb: Even though he doesn't drink coffee himself .. your friends/visitors benefit. I enjoy being able to offer visitors a Cafe quality cup of coffee.

on 1425765662:

It was only a couple of months ago I said I wouldn't spend over $500 on a coffee machine. Yeah, right :P. My grinder I picked up a Smart Grinder Pro from Myer for $199..........

$500 seems a lot early along the coffee journey. Have you given up the Nescafe yet? >:D It's funny what you think is good at the time .. then look back and think .. golly, glad I got past that. Then .. in 6-12 months time .. you look back at what you're doing now .. and same thing .. thought it was good at the time. I bought a $200 Sunbeam .. then went for the 2nd hand $600 machines (for $100) .. then say retail price $1,400 machine. The next, if I upgrade .. will be in the range of $2.5k -$3.5k?---> Bezzera Strega would be the ultimate for me.. if I stick with a lever?? Not going for another lever would give me more cheaper options .. yet still great machines. One of the regulars around here uses a Smart grinder .. and apparently they are very good grinders from what I've read about them on coffee forums.

on 1425765662:

Yay a fellow fumie I am actually selling a lot of my doubles and/or triples and bottles that I no longer wear to fund the coffee machine ;D.

Crikey .. a 'fumie' :rofl: I realise fumies may not want to hear this .. but you could always treat hubby with 'a la naturale' for a time .. you know .. the Tarzan & Jane thing :rofl:- and sell off more of your little treasures to get an even better machine and grinder? I'm thinkin .. Hubs is happy if you're happy :angel:

Cuir Beluga · March 2015

I'll get back to you Moon, toddler is running amok and I need to hit the supermarket :thumb:.

FreshCoffee2 · March 2015

on 1425765662:

I meant I didn't receive an email to say that I had a pm.... My budget has gone from $1000 to $1500 to low $2000s and now hubby has got more than a bit excited after seeing a Splendor and he doesn't even drink coffee...My grinder I picked up a Smart Grinder Pro...........

I get an email from this forum whenever someone sends a Personal Message through the site. If you are not getting that, perhaps you havent linked an email address through your profile? It doesnt need to be publicly accessible.... I sent you a PM a few days ago with some info. Add to that, that I happen to know there is a late model demo Splendor available that will be sold of course with full local to you warranty (ie machine wont have to leave Adelaide to get warrantable service) if you decide to go down that path when you are ready. As you already have a Smart Grinder Pro, put your mind at rest it wont need an upgrade any time soon / perfectly adequate to the job / dont worry about stuff you read in (mostly other) forums saying people have spent squillions on commercial grinders for in home use and making you (whoever) feel insecure about your/their choice of grinder...(another story, dont get me started). Hope that helps./

Cuir Beluga · March 2015

on 1425780230:

I get an email from this forum whenever someone sends a Personal Message through the site. If you are not getting that, perhaps you havent linked an email address through your profile? It doesnt need to be publicly accessible.... I sent you a PM a few days ago with some info. Add to that, that I happen to know there is a late model demo Splendor available that will be sold of course with full local to you warranty (ie machine wont have to leave Adelaide to get warrantable service) if you decide to go down that path when you are ready. As you already have a Smart Grinder Pro, put your mind at rest it wont need an upgrade any time soon / perfectly adequate to the job / dont worry about stuff you read in (mostly other) forums saying people have spent squillions on commercial grinders for in home use and making you (whoever) feel insecure about your/their choice of grinder...(another story, dont get me started). Hope that helps./

Thanks Fresh Coffee, I have received your email on the first 2 machines discussed. Thanks again for that. Hubby is definitely interested in the Splendor but just wants measurements and plumbing/power requirements so if you could email or pm that info and a piccie and price too if not too much trouble and we'll do the sums. No hurry with the info as we won't be ready for 3-4 months yet anyway

. I will look a t my profile and see if there is an email setting or something I can tweak to receive emails. Thanks again, Sue

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Cuir Beluga · March 2015

Moon....... Hubby is happy to go ahead with the machine, probably because I am funding it and probably because he is sick of trying to room to store around 160 bottles of perfume :P. I think this coffee rabbit hole is like the perfume one. Where does one draw the line???? I have also looked at/thought about going down the Sunbeam/Breville road but some of them are serious $$ too so I figure for the money I may as well go the full hog. Yep, there are fumies, not to be confused with furries, some are pretty hardcore let me tell you. I am selling off a lot but some just can't be parted with as I would never be able to replace them, certainly not for what I paid for them anyway

. Sue

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Dry_bean. · March 2015

on 1425718611:

I have no issues with dealing with forum sponsors I am just a bit concerned that should something go wrong it has to be sent back to them and then back to me and the resulting damage that may be done in transit.

Morning Sue, Getting service work done in Adelaide is not a problem, both Coffee Craft and Complete Cafe Services have tech/repair services, I'm sure there are others. So! don't be concerned about buying interstate.

Cuir Beluga · March 2015

Hi Dry bean, thanks for that, servicing/repairs here is one of my main concerns. Do you know if either CC or CCS have issues with servicing gear that they didn't sell or makes that they don't sell? I have noticed some places seem to take exception to equipment they didn't sell. Sue

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Dry_bean. · March 2015

I suspect both would service all types of machines, give em a call. Keep in mind that the quality E61 Italian machines you have been talking about are very reliable, I've had My Bezzera Galatea for 5 years now and never needed a tech. A bonus, as an owner E61 group heads are easy to work on, i.e. replace seals, shower screens, lube etc. In my opinion with the information you've gleaned here your now ready to visit a few stores and have a look at whats available in the flesh.

Cuir Beluga · March 2015

I am building up to getting out there and having a look Dry bean, selling off my used, no longer loved perfumes has actually been quite lucrative so I may be taking the plunge earlier than planned. Hubby is generally pretty good with machinery but he knows his limits. He is an electronic engineer so I am not sure if he would get involved with coffee machines :-|. Sue

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Cuir Beluga · March 2015

Just to keep you good folk on your feet...... La Pavoni Europiccola and/or Professional. Yay, nay or indifference? I admit aesthetically they do it for me, use little space on the bench and are well price. Did I mention I like the look of them :P? Does anyone have any hands on experience with them? TIA, Sue

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Dry_bean. · March 2015

Never used one Sue, however, lots of reviews here http://coffeegeek.com/reviews/consumer/la_pavoni_europiccola/swansonjw from my observation over the years seems they are a quirky machine, prone to over heating and quite difficult to master. If you want a machine to make good coffee without a lot of effort I reckon you would be much better of with a good E61 machine.

Lacehim · March 2015

BrettH has one I think. Fun for the odd eapresso but they overheat so they are pretty much a turn on, brew turn off system. They are manual levers from memory so no spring and I'm not sure what sort of pressure you need to pull the lever down. Most I've seen sit on a shelf looking pretty because the owners found them too much effort.

ash · March 2015

I used to have a La Pavoni Professional, great little machine and I kind of wish I still had it :doh: :coffee2:. Very much a 'feel' machine and if you're not careful you'll either burn yourself on the body :o. They take up very little bench space if that is a concern. Not a machine you can leave on all day, but if you're thinking of having a coffee, switch it on and 10 minutes later it is all good to go. Just don't grind to fine or you'll find yourself getting some big muscles from pushing down on the lever!!! :D

FreshCoffee2 · March 2015

on 1426145700:

...La Pavoni Europiccola and/or Professional. Yay, nay or indifference?...

Hi Sue, afraid that would be your call not ours

Others have made some good points for you to consider. If its important to you, I dont think you will be entertaining with one, and it has a *finite* capacity ie, you fill the boiler, warm up, make coffee, and if you make enough successive coffees that you run the boiler capacity down to minimum, you switch off, bleed steam, open the boiler (do not burn yourself), refill, warm up again, and go again... Whereas "semi commercial" machines such as the ones you have also been looking at can be run continuously and used to entertain groups, family gatherings and dinner parties etc. They have a water reservoir that feeds water into the boiler. You keep filling the reservoir with water, and you can keep making coffee ad infinitum. It is an entirely different way of managing your coffee making operation. The coffee is also different, because the size of the coffee filters ("filter baskets") on semi commercial machines is as per commercial size, while those on the europiccola as with many home use machines, have a smaller capacity of grinds. Horses for courses really, depends on what you like

Hope that helps.

Moon · March 2015

Out of the 2 La Pavonis .. the Professional for sure .. if you would like to try out a lever machine. I was considering one of those. This Electra is even better but pickup only from Sydney. Could work on that if interested- $800 for a ripper machine like that. I'd love one. Here.. http://coffeeforum.org.au/classified-user-wtb-and-for-sale/f-s-elektra-semi-automatica-(syd)/msg49624/#new

FreshCoffee2 · March 2015

Another thought. These home use levers are small and light compared to the other machines you have been looking at. This means they are easily moved across the bench when applying the group handle etc, and it is hard to steady them because they are so hot. More fiddly to use. A good question to help you make your decision, is do you want a serious coffee machine with capacity for whatever you throw at it, or are you happy to have a great looking, smaller and much more fiddly unit... Perhaps that is also governed by how much use you think your new equipment will get, and whether you want a fully commercial syle of espresso.

Cuir Beluga · March 2015

Thank you all for your replies, I have read them all but I am unsure how to multi quote so I won't even try :P. I am still looking and most things are a possibility at the mo but I am thinking I will stick with the original up in the air plan and maybe try and grab a Europiccola type machine second hand somewhere down the line. Thanks all

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Lacehim · March 2015

They are certainly fun, but I think your right. Stick with plan A, when the budget has settled and you want a toy, get a mini lever. If fact if you aren't worried about milk the Caravel's are a nice lever. http://sorrentinacoffee.myshopify.com/products/caravel-by-arrarex-milan-lever-espresso-machine-rare-blue-model-mint-restored-1 They can be had cheaps than that and are so basic you can repair them yourself usually.

Cuir Beluga · March 2015

I am definitely sticking with plan A Lacehim and when I have recovered financially I will have a look at the smaller levers, even if only to keep whatever else I end up with company. The Caravel is a little cutey, there is lots of tinkering with that to be had I would think

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Brett H · March 2015

Pavs and Euros.... Love Em!! As a machine to look at they're lovely! As a machine to make more than two coffees in one hour they won't cut it without some major fiddling. To make a shot on these levers, as good as your common all garden variety HX machine, you will have to fiddle and observe a rigorous idiosyncratic process. Are they fun! Yes! Are they consistent? Perhaps... sometimes... Are they capable of truly great coffee? Depends! Would you rely on one for making coffee for a group of friends in the afternoon? Certainly not! Would Tont Abbott call it a lifestyle choice? I can neither confirm or deny that comment!

FreshCoffee2 · March 2015

on 1426242930:

...Would Tont Abbott call it a lifestyle choice? I can neither confirm or deny that comment!

I think Mr Rabbit certainly would and if he could he would put an extra tax on that ;D "Lifestyle" surely must come under the user pays system. Its just a gut feeling but I think he may be a blend forty free drinker. Coffee psychology: quietly size up people and decide what type of coffee you think they are in to ;D

Brett H · March 2015

LOL, the cup of coffee just became a can of worms

A delicious can that may spurn a new thread.... At thread that would be hilarious... but sadly have to be locked due to being slightly more controversial than: - K3s with collar-play - Alex's that draw too much power - Any thread staffed by Breville drones - Any Breville thread Shame really...

Cuir Beluga · March 2015

Funny you mention the Breville thread, I was reading it just last night Brett ;D.

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