I've made up my mind, I'm finally going to replace my old lame expresso machine. It's been a source of frustration for long enough. But what to buy? I started my search on the web, but quickly got overwhelmed, both with the prices and the options.
I did find a few good links along the way. There's this: Compare-O-Matic - which lists features and pricing for espresso machines, coffee makers and grinders. ConsumerSearch.com has a page on Espresso Machine Reviews that's pretty good. I need to spend some serious time sorting through the posts on the Home-barista.com Forums. But much of this stuff I read just adds to my pile of confusion.
The long and the short of it is... it looks like you can't get anything good for less than $300, and for that kind of money, I want to be sure to get something I'll like (and can use!). Anybody got recommendations?
I have a Gaggia Classic. It was very expensive and I probably wouldn't have shelled out that amount myself, but it was a gift.
It certainly does the job and has never given me cause for annoyance. I've never *not* managed to get a good crema, although I'm still getting used to the steam nozzle (or finger burner, as I call the things)
Posted by: Nicola | November 13, 2005 at 05:19 PM
Wonderful, thanks MC, I'll check that one out.
Posted by: Christine | August 12, 2005 at 08:11 AM
I bought a Gaggia Espresso. It's listed at Sweet Maria's for $199. It does a good job, especially for the price. It puts out real espresso, as opposed to one of the steam pressure machines.
YOu might want to consider it.
MC
Posted by: mostly cajun | August 11, 2005 at 08:59 AM