What is the best espresso machine for me

[abbycole]

I have gone thru 2 cuisinart 15 bar espresso makers in two years. the first one broke after 6 months and they sent me a new one and after 1 year of use it broke. I am looking for a great quality 15 bar machine that is going to last more than a year. I don't want to pay more that 350-400. especially b/c I have not had a great experience with long lasting machines. I do use it every day. any suggestions?

[shadow745]

Don't read into the "15 bar" thing as most vibratory pumps crank out that much pressure when not under load. It's pretty much a marketing strategy and catches alot of newbies.

Do you have a decent grinder?

[NathansCoffeeRoasting]

In that range, a refurbished Gaggia classic/new baby/baby class is a great start. Or a used quality machine.

Do you have a decent espresso grinder?

[abbycole]

Yes I do have a great espresso grinder.

[shadow745]

You primarily drink straight espresso (Americanos, etc) or milk based drinks? I ask because some machines are better steamers than others.

Exactly what grinder do you currently use?

You use the machine daily, but how many drinks does this consist of on average?

[abbycole]

I have a custom grinder hamilton beach. I use it for espresso and mochas

[Startup]

Spend a few bucks more for quality...Rancilio Silvia

[shadow745]

I have a custom grinder hamilton beach. I use it for espresso and mochas

Sorry, but anything made by Hamilton Beach isn't going to cut it for espresso.

[shadow745]

Spend a few bucks more for quality...Rancilio Silvia

You mean a few more hundred? The price of Silvia has increased quite a bit in the last 5 or so years with nothing being done to make it any better.

[CCafe]

You mean a few more hundred? The price of Silvia has increased quite a bit in the last 5 or so years with nothing being done to make it any better.

12 years ago the price of gas was about $1.50. A metric ton of copper was running about $1800. Today gas is running close to $4.00, a metric ton of copper is pushing $9000.

So now you can see why innovation has plateaued yet the price of espresso equipment has gone up. I don't like it any more then you do but I don't see the markets stabilizing any time soon so as long as the demand for precious metals and other commodities increase so will the price of manufactured goods.