Complete new set up !

[Keithy]

G,Day all
my first post on the forum so I'm hoping its in the correct section. !!
Ive owned a Breville BES920 and smart grinder for the last 3 years
finally come to the end of my patients with it, as on the 3rd brand new machine under warranty ,,
and now the grinder has given up completely. !!
it does get used everyday minimum of 6 cups sometimes more
I am not calling it too much as it gave decent cups of coffee. But now with a bit more experience
and more to the point a bit more of a coffee freak,, I want to spend more money and get a decent set up
Ive done lots of research so far and come up with these
Expobar Barista Minore 1V
Compak K3 Touch Advance
can any of you guys give me some feedback on my choice so far
much appreciated
Keith
South Australia

[gonzo89]

Hi Keithy, there is a lengthy discussion taking place on another thread that relates to this but it's about comparing the minore to the ecm T profi.
Some minore owners should be able to chip in but perhaps the thread should have bene named 'looking to buy an Expobar Minore iv' to catch their attention. I personally love the specs of the machine for the price.
Best of luck

[allitnils]

From my times researching, I've concluded that the expobar would be a poor option.
At this price point, either ECM or Rockets are in the top of the game, as far as i can tell.

[flynnaus]

I think what you have selected is good and definitely an upgrade to your old Breville kit. Any reason why you settled on a double boiler machine?
I suggest you either
- go to a reputable coffee shop that sells a good range of espresso machines, or
- use CoffeeSnobs Site Sponsors Quote form to explain your needs and desires.
In your budget, you might want to factor in other needs. For example, do you have a good water filter? Adelaide water is known for its high dissolved mineral content, causing limescale problems.

[Keithy]

From my times researching, I've concluded that the expobar would be a poor option.
At this price point, either ECM or Rockets are in the top of the game, as far as i can tell.

Hi allitnills
thanks for your reply,, I looked at a ECM Barista. Entry level the other day, and also a rocket the ECM was more in my price bracket, but I did like the Rocket Espresso Giotto PID V3 but is it worth the extra $$$$$
as I've now been looking at the Mazzer Mini type A grinder too, so makes an expensive set up
maybe I should wait another couple of months and earn a bit more cash to get the best !!

[Keithy]

Hi Flynnaus
Thanks for your reply, first of all yes Adelaide Water, yes a big problem but whatever machine I go for I want the ability to be able to plumb in the water and waste to my bench top. As I'm a Plumber/gas fitter by trade ! And use Pura Tap filtered water.
also looked at ECM, Rocket, and also now probably changing the grinder to a Mazzer Mini Mod A
your Question on Double boiler ? Open to suggestions that's the whole reason to post to get an idea of other people's ideas
Yes we have access to a range of freshly roasted beans and drink lattes and espresso
but the Breville is no longer delivering that perfect crema that we used to get from it. ��
Look forward to your comments
Keith

[flynnaus]

When I bought my current machine, a Rocket Giotto premium Plus, I had drawn up a short list of 5 machines based on what HX machines I liked the look of, what my budget permitted and brand reputation. . I had the opportunity to see all the machines on my shortlist in the metal and read up info on CoffeeSnobs or elsewhere.
In the end it was price that clinched the deal for me but the Giotto was high on my shortlist because of its stylish appearance and its thermostability. I've never regretted it and it continues to deliver excellent coffee 7 years later.
It's hard to make recommendations for other users as I have little experience in a wide range of machines. I would definitely be visiting a reputable dealer to get some hands on. If I had the means to buy a new machine at the moment, it would be a toss up between a good lever machine or a double boiler. Either gives you greater control over the shot than a straight HX.
Some considerations for you:
What type of coffee will you be making daily- milk-based, espresso, long black or a mixture of these.
How many will you be making at a time - you might want something with a bit more steaming power if making more than two milk-based coffees at a time. this is also important for grinder consideration.
What machines do you like the look of and do you have the space to accommodate them.
Tank or plumbed-in.
Servicability.