Originally posted by croissantpig
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G'day croissant overindulging friend.
Just like most things, tackling each step in order is a good idea. Also, buying locally means that you can get a replacement if it is damaged or DOA is too common at that level. Far less hassle until you get rid of your P Plates.
I could not recommend starting with a good grinder highly enough. For a beginner with limited local choice, it sounds like the old SB 480 (or 700) / Breville Smartgrinder would be a sound start - easily good enough as a base to feed a reasonable espresso machine and start tinkering. Check for bundles - both HN & BE have them every so often (A friend bought a SB 7000 bundled with a 480 for less than I paid for my 7000 by itself). After you get your skills up to scratch you can then make an informed choice and save yourself an expensive "lock in".
Example: The Silvia cannot froth milk & pull a shot at the same time. If you have your cuppa black, no big deal. If you usually do flat whites or Lattes... (I owned a Silvia for 9 years - I frothed the milk in a plunger / microwave combo - a total PITA).
Hope this helps
Almondine Addict (TampIt)

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