[lostlogin]

Thanks for this.

I’m not suggesting you change what clearly works well, but anyone starting out should consider second hand gear. The best espresso gear ages well, is repairable and is readily available second hand. The machines Rancillio Silva, La Cimbali Junior and the grinders by Mazzer are all readily available and affordable if you are patient. Bought dirty, chipped and not working is best - then the price is lowest, sub $50US each is the best I’ve achieved.

I’m yet to find one that isn’t just a broken on/off switch or disconnected cable. All the parts are easily sourced and a careful respray is cheap. The above machines are commercial grade and designed to be pulled apart quickly using a screwdriver or two and maybe a spanner. Careful though. It’s a very slippery slope.

[troxwalt]

Where would you recommend searching for used espresso gear? ebay?

[js2]

I've got a stainless steel Gaggia Classic I'll send you for the cost of shipping if you'd like. I got it refurb and was never able to get a consistent shot out of it, but I don't know how much of that was due to the machine vs user error. Anyway, I got tired of pouring sour shots down the sink, so I cleaned it and put in storage years ago.

It's probably $30-50 to ship given its size and weight.

My email is in my profile.

[js2]

Claimed.

[lostlogin]

I use a local equivalent - Trademe.co.nz.