Green Coffee Buying Club

Coffee Discussion boards => Hardware & Equipment => Topic started by: Joe on September 10, 2007, 06:11:06 PM

Title: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Joe on September 10, 2007, 06:11:06 PM
While watching the Bears vs. Chargers game this weekend with Shaun and Harry, Harry was trying to show us his espresso machine online. He also asked a question, "Do we have a thread going where you can show off your machine?". I said,"No, but that's a good idea."


So Here is that thread.

Joe

My Current setup:

A commercial Elektra T1 and a Mazzer Super Jolly
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: cpl593h on September 10, 2007, 08:25:19 PM
Sweet. Once I'm situated again I'll have photos up.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: HeartsKing on September 10, 2007, 10:28:52 PM
The only way I'm gonna be able to say I've got the current nicest machine is to be the first to post a picture.  Here's my Gaggia Carezza; steam wand swapped with a Ranchilo Silvia wand, added 4 hole tip, too.  portafilter semi-naked.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: irunbird on September 11, 2007, 05:55:43 AM
Now don't laugh, but I couldn't take the stock look of most e61 machines and had this beast electro-plated with copper and gold (gold didn't cost that much more than brass, and it's very temp stable/food safe)... The old chrome just clashed with the brick wall.  The Kony is next!
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Chris on September 11, 2007, 03:50:03 PM
My S1 - can you say wide angle lens?
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 11, 2007, 05:16:36 PM
My S1 - can you say wide angle lens?

Yes, wide angle lens. Can you say supercalifagilisticexpealidocious?

Edited for GCBC english teacher Jeffo: supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, I mispelled one letter...man that is some skill just off the top of my head.

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: thejavaman on September 11, 2007, 06:18:51 PM
Here is my humble little set-up:  Carezza & Lux.  I'm envious of these other guys!  However, I feel pretty good because I know that I can pull outstanding shots at about half the price!
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Jeffo on September 11, 2007, 06:27:36 PM
My S1 - can you say wide angle lens?

Yes, wide angle lens. Can you say supercalifagilisticexpealidocious?

Very very close. And funny.

javaman what espresso machine is that?
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: thejavaman on September 11, 2007, 06:30:11 PM
javaman what espresso machine is that?

Gaggia Carezza - a cheap (~$200), but IMHO very good entry level machine.  Same goes for the grinder - Nemox Lux
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: BoldJava on September 11, 2007, 06:45:23 PM
Here is my humble little set-up:  Carezza & Lux.


Kevin, I can't read those upside down  capp/latte cups.  Do they say GCBC?

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: thejavaman on September 11, 2007, 06:50:36 PM
Here is my humble little set-up:  Carezza & Lux.


Kevin, I can't read those upside down  capp/latte cups.  Do they say GCBC?

B|Java

;D ;D ;D - If I had some GCBC cups to show off, believe me - I would!  That's really not a bad idea.  Anyone up for a group buy of some high quality GCBC espresso cups???
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: peter on September 11, 2007, 08:28:11 PM
Yes, wide angle lens. Can you say supercalifagilisticexpealidocious?

Spelled it wrong. 

Posted by Jeffo, on peter's computer.


Not to hijack the thread, but I believe it's high time some GCBC merchandise came out.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 11, 2007, 09:54:36 PM
Yes, wide angle lens. Can you say supercalifagilisticexpealidocious?

Spelled it wrong. 

Posted by Jeffo, on peter's computer.


Not to hijack the thread, but I believe it's high time some GCBC merchandise came out.

We had some custom art mugs not too long ago, and we have a logo that was chosen plus quite a number more to choose from. So go for it let me know what you find.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Ron_L on September 12, 2007, 11:38:51 AM
Here's my toys.  Alex Izzo Mark II, La San Marco LSM90 grinder (eBay find) for espresso and a Solis Maestro Plus (CG Christmas Giveaway prize) for everything else.

Before anyone asks, the Toriani syrups are for my daughter.  She uses them with club soda to make Italian Sodas.  ::)

(http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d172/Ron_L/IMG_1495.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: thejavaman on September 12, 2007, 12:03:34 PM
Before anyone asks, the Toriani syrups are for my daughter.  She uses them with club soda to make Italian Sodas.  ::)

Sure Ron, we believe you....  ::) - Really though, I tried using those same syrups once for a guy at work who said he only drank flavored coffee!?!?  I ended up drinking some of it also  (just to test it out, honestly) and I almost gagged it was so bad  :-X :-X :-X.  To each his own I guess....

P.S. - that's an awsome set-up you've got there too!
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Chris on September 12, 2007, 02:58:54 PM
I drink everything from ristretto doubles on up to Foo-Foo city.

While some syrups are gross, some are really good. These are my favorite additives:

Real Mexican Chocolate
French Vanilla, Toffee, Orange syrups
Carmel, Chocolate Sauce from Ghiradelli

My kids favorite "coffee" drink doesn't even have coffee at all.  It is steamed milk, carmel sauce, mexican chocolate.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Chris on September 12, 2007, 03:05:12 PM
Quote from: thejavaman
I feel pretty good because I know that I can pull outstanding shots at about half the price!

Don't try to fool us with your Avatar.  The machine in the Avatar is not the one in the photo is it?
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: thejavaman on September 12, 2007, 04:28:15 PM
Quote from: thejavaman
I feel pretty good because I know that I can pull outstanding shots at about half the price!


Don't try to fool us with your Avatar.  The machine in the Avatar is not the one in the photo is it?


Oh no - the machine in my avatar looks way too expensive for me!  I did a search on www.photobucket.com (http://www.photobucket.com) for "espresso" and it looked like the coolest picture I could find.  I don't even know what espresso machine it is!?!?  Maybe one day, if all the stars align properly, I can snap a picture of me actually pulling a shot from my own machine that is worthy enough for my avatar!  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 12, 2007, 04:32:17 PM
Quote from: thejavaman
I feel pretty good because I know that I can pull outstanding shots at about half the price!

Don't try to fool us with your Avatar.  The machine in the Avatar is not the one in the photo is it?

look who's talking.  :P
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: crholliday on September 15, 2007, 08:17:01 AM
Here is where my espresso machine lives:

Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 15, 2007, 12:58:42 PM
Where is your temp modded Astoria?

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: crholliday on September 15, 2007, 03:55:07 PM
Where is your temp modded Astoria?

Joe

The Laurentis is a rebranded Astoria/CMA, you will see two PID's under the machine. One is controlling the boiler temp, the other displays the temp of a thermocouple mounted inside the group head just above the gicueler. I have a attached a closer picture.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 15, 2007, 04:15:02 PM
Ahhh...I thought that was your La Cimbali Jr. I couldn't see in the other pics. Do you still have a Cimballi Jr.?
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: crholliday on September 15, 2007, 10:49:26 PM
Ahhh...I thought that was your La Cimbali Jr. I couldn't see in the other pics. Do you still have a Cimballi Jr.?

That grinder is a Cimbali Junior Grinder.  ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: lurkerjohnny on September 16, 2007, 12:28:43 AM
Nice setup! I wish I had a dedicated area for my gear.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: peechdogg on September 16, 2007, 09:30:34 PM
We had some custom art mugs not too long ago, and we have a logo that was chosen plus quite a number more to choose from. So go for it let me know what you find.


I went looking over on http://www.cafepress.com
Sadly, they only have coffee mugs. No espresso, capp, or latte cups.
Now, some GCBC thongs for my girlfriend ...
http://www.cafepress.com/cp/info/sell/products/productdetail?prodtypeno=80

Um, I better rethink that one... might not go over well.

UPDATE: What about some 3 oz. "mini-mugs" http://www.promotemugs.com/espresso-latte-cups.htm
We could do something like this if we can reduce the number of colors in the logo and perhaps do a simplified version.

I've done a 2 color process stainless mug with plastic liner with these folks. It worked well:
http://www.showyourlogo.com/custom-travel-mug/Stainless-Tumbler.htm?31,72
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 17, 2007, 01:25:10 PM
Not to Gloat, but I just picked up an Elektra 1 group at a persons house for $180. It was missing a leg and it looks like it needs a to be descaled and a few gaskets replaced. I will probably hand it over to Jim Duke for service and then I'll hook it up and let everyone know how it works. Looks like the Bezzera's will be on Ebay soon unless someone wants dibs.

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: thejavaman on September 17, 2007, 04:35:40 PM
UPDATE: What about some 3 oz. "mini-mugs" [url]http://www.promotemugs.com/espresso-latte-cups.htm[/url]
We could do something like this if we can reduce the number of colors in the logo and perhaps do a simplified version.


Those 3 oz. mini mugs look pretty cool!
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 17, 2007, 05:48:59 PM
UPDATE: What about some 3 oz. "mini-mugs" [url]http://www.promotemugs.com/espresso-latte-cups.htm[/url]
We could do something like this if we can reduce the number of colors in the logo and perhaps do a simplified version.


Those 3 oz. mini mugs look pretty cool!


They are ok I would prefer a traditional espresso cup like the Lavazza one's I have or like the Sweetmaria's monkey cups.

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Stubbie on September 18, 2007, 08:11:19 AM
We took a wet bar that was gathering dust, and turned it into my own little espresso cafe...

Andreja Premium and Mazzer Mini serving me well so far

-Stubbie

 
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: peechdogg on September 18, 2007, 09:30:43 AM
They are ok I would prefer a traditional espresso cup like the Lavazza one's I have or like the Sweetmaria's monkey cups.

Joe

I've got a couple requests to some promo & logo companies to see about some traditional espresso cups. Most of them seem to offer the larger sized latte cups, so maybe there's hope.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: zapty on September 29, 2007, 09:13:54 AM
Here's a link to some of my stuff:

http://picasaweb.google.com/raver171/NewAlbum6907921

Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Chris on September 29, 2007, 10:03:58 AM
Here's a link to some of my stuff:

[url]http://picasaweb.google.com/raver171/NewAlbum6907921[/url]




Where are you at?

That is quite a bit of coffee and roasting equipment - is it all for personal use?  ???
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: thejavaman on September 29, 2007, 10:04:25 AM
Here's a link to some of my stuff:

[url]http://picasaweb.google.com/raver171/NewAlbum6907921[/url]


I'm drooling over your Probat 3 barrel sample roaster!!!
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: alleno on September 29, 2007, 04:16:37 PM
Here's my setup.   Currently pulling shots of a Brazil FVA/Sumatra Blue Battak/Yemen Ismaily blend.  Next up is Joe's Yirg with BW's Ipanema Brazil! 
 Good times...
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 29, 2007, 04:27:40 PM
How do you like your Thor Tamper?

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: alleno on September 29, 2007, 04:30:25 PM
How do you like your Thor Tamper?

Joe

  I love it! Great feel and it looks cool.  I'm even thinking of having him make a  rosewood portafilter handle and knobs for the BrutusII.  That would be too cool.
 
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: irunbird on September 29, 2007, 05:13:09 PM
I love it! Great feel and it looks cool.  I'm even thinking of having him make a  rosewood portafilter handle and knobs for the BrutusII.  That would be too cool.

Alleno- you'd better ask him what the knobs would look like first.  I had him make some for me a few years ago that didn't turn out quite right (and at a bit of a premium).  He wasn't able to make something in the shape of the original (only round kinds of things), and might still not be able to.  Take a peek at my set-up on page 1- I ended up sort of "whittling" them out of some Mexican ironwood, and they turned out ok (not really the quality of Thortamper's handles for the portafilter, for sure), but shaped more like the 5-pointed star of the original plastic ones.

Ray
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 29, 2007, 05:37:10 PM
I love it! Great feel and it looks cool.  I'm even thinking of having him make a  rosewood portafilter handle and knobs for the BrutusII.  That would be too cool.

Alleno- you'd better ask him what the knobs would look like first.  I had him make some for me a few years ago that didn't turn out quite right (and at a bit of a premium).  He wasn't able to make something in the shape of the original (only round kinds of things), and might still not be able to.  Take a peek at my set-up on page 1- I ended up sort of "whittling" them out of some Mexican ironwood, and they turned out ok (not really the quality of Thortamper's handles for the portafilter, for sure), but shaped more like the 5-pointed star of the original plastic ones.

Ray

I did the same thing for my Pasquini Livietta from him, the thing that was upsetting to me was the time it took along with the price. I had it made of costa rican coffeeburl and I didn't realize how lightweight the handles were compared to the composite they normally use. Anyways I kinda enjoyed my tamper but after using my Bumper tamper, I think I like the feel of the heavier metal tampers. Les is a good man I really enjoy the look of his craftsmanship. Here is some pics of my old tamper and of the Livietta, unfortunately I didn't like the look of the nobs and handles that I just put the stock black plastic one's back on. I still kinda miss my Livietta, if it wasn't for the 55mm porta filter I think she would've stuck around a little longer.

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 29, 2007, 06:16:41 PM
  I love it! Great feel and it looks cool. 

Have you seen Superbad? this statement reminds me of something pretty funny in that movie.

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: alleno on September 29, 2007, 07:05:58 PM
  I love it! Great feel and it looks cool. 

Have you seen Superbad? this statement reminds me of something pretty funny in that movie.

Joe

Hahahah, I did see Superbad.  I haven't laughed so hard in ages.  Soooooo funny!
Umm not sure of what my quote reminded you of though..  ???  The very end where he's trying on pants?  Eeeek!
  On topic.. maybe I'll hold off on getting Les to make me some knobs and a handle..
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: alleno on September 29, 2007, 07:09:33 PM
Good god.. ok enough with the double entendre.  I guess espresso machines are like sports cars...
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on September 29, 2007, 08:18:11 PM
  I love it! Great feel and it looks cool. 

Have you seen Superbad? this statement reminds me of something pretty funny in that movie.

Joe

Hahahah, I did see Superbad.  I haven't laughed so hard in ages.  Soooooo funny!
Umm not sure of what my quote reminded you of though..  ???  The very end where he's trying on pants?  Eeeek!
  On topic.. maybe I'll hold off on getting Les to make me some knobs and a handle..


No the part where he talks about how he likes to tuck "it" in his waistband. "Because not only does it hide it, but it feels great!"
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: alleno on September 29, 2007, 08:19:24 PM
Hahahahah... hilarious

 
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on October 02, 2007, 05:23:09 PM
Now don't laugh, but I couldn't take the stock look of most e61 machines and had this beast electro-plated with copper and gold (gold didn't cost that much more than brass, and it's very temp stable/food safe)... The old chrome just clashed with the brick wall.  The Kony is next!

How did you do this? Did you buy it this way or did you electroplate everything?

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Roasting Realtor on October 02, 2007, 07:38:23 PM
Yes, wide angle lens. Can you say supercalifagilisticexpealidocious?

Spelled it wrong. 

Posted by Jeffo, on peter's computer.


Not to hijack the thread, but I believe it's high time some GCBC merchandise came out.

We had a logo contest and Hananonn won.  Are we going to put it to use?  Hananonn, are you going to make us license your logo for use on coffee mugs and t-shirts?
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: irunbird on October 03, 2007, 08:43:04 AM
Now don't laugh, but I couldn't take the stock look of most e61 machines and had this beast electro-plated with copper and gold (gold didn't cost that much more than brass, and it's very temp stable/food safe)... The old chrome just clashed with the brick wall.  The Kony is next!

How did you do this? Did you buy it this way or did you electroplate everything?

Joe

Hey, Joe- yes, I took it completely apart and had all of the cabinet, group, hardware, nuts/bolts all electroplated.  There is a company in Tucson that mostly does antique car parts (a bunch of old farts like to chrome plate nearly everything under the hood), and they offer plating in copper, brass, gold and chrome.  The hard part was figuring out a way to clear coat the copper, since I wanted the mirror-finished version (copper is very reactive- even if you place a copper sheet outside and put your hand between it and the sun, you'll get a permanent shadow after just a few minutes).  Eventually the powder coater (different guy than the electroplating co.) had to bake it in the oven at just a little over 120 deg F.  After 3 tries baking at more extreme temps (first was something like 400 deg F) he settled on that 120, buffing out the rainbow hues after each attempt... rather frustrating, and he eventually decided to not charge me.  It's turned out well, and rather bomb-proof- no scratches anywhere other than a few on the drip tray, and it's been almost 3 yrs.  The gold plating done to the group and hardware sticking out of the front of the machine turned out just awesome, and no clear-coating was required as it's temp-stable and food-safe.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on October 03, 2007, 08:52:12 AM
Now don't laugh, but I couldn't take the stock look of most e61 machines and had this beast electro-plated with copper and gold (gold didn't cost that much more than brass, and it's very temp stable/food safe)... The old chrome just clashed with the brick wall.  The Kony is next!

How did you do this? Did you buy it this way or did you electroplate everything?

Joe

Hey, Joe- yes, I took it completely apart and had all of the cabinet, group, hardware, nuts/bolts all electroplated.  There is a company in Tucson that mostly does antique car parts (a bunch of old farts like to chrome plate nearly everything under the hood), and they offer plating in copper, brass, gold and chrome.  The hard part was figuring out a way to clear coat the copper, since I wanted the mirror-finished version (copper is very reactive- even if you place a copper sheet outside and put your hand between it and the sun, you'll get a permanent shadow after just a few minutes).  Eventually the powder coater (different guy than the electroplating co.) had to bake it in the oven at just a little over 120 deg F.  After 3 tries baking at more extreme temps (first was something like 400 deg F) he settled on that 120, buffing out the rainbow hues after each attempt... rather frustrating, and he eventually decided to not charge me.  It's turned out well, and rather bomb-proof- no scratches anywhere other than a few on the drip tray, and it's been almost 3 yrs.  The gold plating done to the group and hardware sticking out of the front of the machine turned out just awesome, and no clear-coating was required as it's temp-stable and food-safe.

How much did that cost?
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Chris on October 03, 2007, 08:58:24 AM
No offense, but that gold/copper thing is waaaaayyyyyy gaudy for me.   :o

But it is the few weirdos out there that makes up the spice of life.  ::)
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on October 03, 2007, 09:02:33 AM
No offense, but that gold/copper thing is waaaaayyyyyy gaudy for me.   :o

But it is the few weirdos out there that makes up the spice of life.  ::)

I'm spicy like Salsa.
 :P
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: zapty on October 03, 2007, 09:33:04 AM
Here's a link to some of my stuff:

[url]http://picasaweb.google.com/raver171/NewAlbum6907921[/url]


I'm drooling over your Probat 3 barrel sample roaster!!!


The Probat is great, finished getting it back in shape not too long ago, picked it up for less then the price of a GeneCafe and spent maybe about USD 600,- in total (Probat plus parts needed) getting it going.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: zapty on October 03, 2007, 09:38:59 AM
Here's a link to some of my stuff:

[url]http://picasaweb.google.com/raver171/NewAlbum6907921[/url]




Where are you at?

That is quite a bit of coffee and roasting equipment - is it all for personal use?  ???


I'm way over in The Netherlands...and yes, it is all for personal use, with more on the way soon (Blue Batak for instance)
If any of you guys ever make it over to the Europe or Amsterdam, come and visit us and stay a couple days....and we'll do a few roasts
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: irunbird on October 03, 2007, 12:31:30 PM
How much did that cost?

600 smackeroos... and in defense of my "gaudiness"- when I got the machine, my wife wanted me to stow it below the counter between uses.. could you imagine hefting 70 lbs of machine each time you wanted to make some brew??  all I had to do was make it "pretty" so it could live in front of that brick wall.. she likes it, so I'm happy.  $600 bucks wasn't all that much, but the wait nearly killed me!
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: dan on October 06, 2007, 08:56:55 AM
I'd like to put my bid in for both the 'Ugliest' and 'Screwballiest' categories. My grinder is a Ditting I got from craigslist and cleaned up. I have to use the WDT for all my shots. My machine is an Astoria lever I also craigslisted and cleaned up. I made a PIC microcontroller to read a pressure transducer and control the heating element. I originally had it using a PID algorithm then scrapped that for pure fuzzy logic. In my typical half-assed but functional manner I have it just hanging on the side from some magnets. Hey, all that soldering made me too tired to put it in a nice little project box! On the left you can see the dump bucket I feed a tube to from the drip tray. Thankfully my dog hasn't aquired a taste for sink shots. I also mounted some LED's you can see in the 2nd picture. The Astoria has that huge overhang and it was near impossible to see the shots, so I bought some LED's and threw together a couple parts from an old computer's power supply for that.

Now I can be the "at least I'm not that guy" guy when you think you've gone over the edge.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: dan on October 06, 2007, 09:01:46 AM
Oh, and as a sad postscript to all of that I should add that I'm way more into drip coffee than espresso. I probably use each of my french press, vacuum pot, and aeropress more than my espresso machine.  :-\
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Chris on October 06, 2007, 09:47:03 AM
Here are some questions:

1. How hard/easy is it to get a good shot, and how do they taste?
2. What was your total cost?
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: dan on October 06, 2007, 09:56:35 AM
Here are some questions:

1. How hard/easy is it to get a good shot, and how do they taste?
2. What was your total cost?

Haha, Joe just asked me nearly the same questions in a pm.

1. Shots for me are much easier on this than on a pump machine. I have my first shot of the day right after I walk my dog, so before we walk I run a little water through the group. When I get back it's up to temp and I don't really have to think about temp. I think the preinfusion and gentler pressure profile are more forgiving of my distribution skills so that's mostly why I prefer this lever to the pump machines I've used. I think I'm used to the machine enough that the taste is more dependent on how badly I screwed up the roast - basically I feel comfortable that the machine is out of the equation so I can focus on other aspects of getting good coffee.

2. Adding in replacement parts and all I think I got it all for under $1k. I only buy stuff off cl if it's a slam dunk bargain and the machines both were.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: irunbird on October 06, 2007, 10:33:47 AM
Now I can be the "at least I'm not that guy" guy when you think you've gone over the edge.

Dan- thanks for taking the heat off of me!
Awesome work- If I had half the electronic know-how of most coffeegeeks, I wouldn't have had to spring for the Brewtus... I'm fairly skilled at taking mechanical things apart, but I'd rather leave the soldering, pid'g, etc.. to others. :-[

Ray
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: dan on October 06, 2007, 02:14:50 PM
Now I can be the "at least I'm not that guy" guy when you think you've gone over the edge.

Dan- thanks for taking the heat off of me!
Awesome work- If I had half the electronic know-how of most coffeegeeks, I wouldn't have had to spring for the Brewtus... I'm fairly skilled at taking mechanical things apart, but I'd rather leave the soldering, pid'g, etc.. to others. :-[

Ray

Thanks Ray, I think we'll both remain "that guy" since our respective deep ends we went off are probably at different pools. I actually didn't know much about electronics going into the project - just tried to pick it up as I went along. Now that I've got the basics figured out it's more tedious than anything.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Hananonn on October 08, 2007, 07:42:44 PM
Yes, wide angle lens. Can you say supercalifagilisticexpealidocious?

Spelled it wrong. 

Posted by Jeffo, on peter's computer.


Not to hijack the thread, but I believe it's high time some GCBC merchandise came out.

We had a logo contest and Hananonn won.  Are we going to put it to use?  Hananonn, are you going to make us license your logo for use on coffee mugs and t-shirts?
Oh,
 finally someone is asking the right questions?..there was a contest.
 There is a beaner  winner. There is no logo posted.  It?s ok.
I did not want to bug the whoever was to post it on ?I hoped it will come from someone else.
However,  although  we had fun  doing it, spending so much time and effort  got to have some  material results. Aka being posted.
Its up to papa Chris.
For a life time membership guaranteed I will let the club have full licensing- Am I nice or what?
Actually It was part of the contest rules: the club can assume full ownership of that logo.

 :'(
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Chris on October 08, 2007, 08:56:21 PM
Alright, I will put the logo on since so many have asked.

I am not responsible for how it looks though...

Hanan, you will have to email me all files you have.  I have PM'ed you my email.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Abouna on November 12, 2007, 01:28:14 PM
Now don't laugh, but I couldn't take the stock look of most e61 machines and had this beast electro-plated with copper and gold (gold didn't cost that much more than brass, and it's very temp stable/food safe)... The old chrome just clashed with the brick wall.  The Kony is next!

Beautiful.  I'm not overly fond of gold and and such but that looks great.  Very pre-60's Italian.  Looks like a pump version of a lever machine. 

Sweet.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: PaulM on November 12, 2007, 03:24:11 PM
Now don't laugh, but I couldn't take the stock look of most e61 machines and had this beast electro-plated with copper and gold (gold didn't cost that much more than brass, and it's very temp stable/food safe)... The old chrome just clashed with the brick wall.  The Kony is next!


Beautiful.  I'm not overly fond of gold and and such but that looks great.  Very pre-60's Italian.  Looks like a pump version of a lever machine. 

Sweet.


I think this would look even better there:

http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/for/472516015.html

NYC craigslist for a few days now, could still be available!
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: irunbird on November 14, 2007, 05:15:31 AM
woah- I'd have to knock a hole in the ceiling for that thing.. what a beast!  I've seen several of those in cafes (one here in Tucson, another in Boston), never in working order.. kinda sad- they're so beautiful, but out of style, I guess.

Ray
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: PaulM on November 21, 2007, 07:41:07 PM
Just picked up one of these used, a Vibiemme Kometa, their commercial one group, sold mostly in Europe and Australia.  I found it on Boston's craigslist wired for 110/60hz, not sure how that came to be. Sorry for the stock photo, need to recharge the camera batteries. Anyway, it is an automatic that can be operated semi-automatically and has a built in rotary pump with a 5 liter boiler. (!!!)  The thing weighs like eighty pounds, so I took a ride and picked it up in person.

I originally thought the group was true E61, but alas, having taken it apart to clean it out, I learned that it is not. Thermosyphon but no preinfusion chamber. Plan to add a delay timer on the pump motor to accomplish preinfusion. Will post photos of the interior when I can, it is impressive! I think my upgrade fever is officially over, if not forever, then at least hopefully for a long, long time.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on November 22, 2007, 12:28:23 PM
Paul that seems very similar to what my elektra is internally. I wouldn't mess with it personally, I'm not sure your gaining anything with preinfusion. I know my group is a thermosyphon Elektra , I have no idea if it is preinfused or not. Is there an easy way to tell?

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: PaulM on November 22, 2007, 01:39:33 PM
Paul that seems very similar to what my elektra is internally. I wouldn't mess with it personally, I'm not sure your gaining anything with preinfusion. I know my group is a thermosyphon Elektra , I have no idea if it is preinfused or not. Is there an easy way to tell?

Joe

Hey Joe,

I actually enjoy messing with these things. But the timer is really simple to install, essentially just snip the power lead to the pump and attach clipped ends to timer, bring power to timer, and voila. If you add a switch across the clipped ends you can readily bypass it, too. And the whole thing is easily reversible. You also need an inlet water regulator for it to work right, but if the machine is plumbed that is a good idea to have anyway.

But I wouldn't do it if I didn't think it would make a difference. I have only had the machine for a couple of days, but I know already that this machine is not as forgiving as the Faema, and I think the reason is no preinfusion. Ken Fox did this to his rotary non-PI Cimbali on the advice of Michael Teahan, who I respect immensely. Apparently Ken is happy with it. There's a long, long posting about this on alt.coffee from a few years ago if interested, I believe a search for "delay on make" will turn it up.

I don't know about the Elektra, what model is it? I'll see what I can find out about it.

Paul
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on November 22, 2007, 02:00:14 PM
I don't know about the Elektra, what model is it? I'll see what I can find out about it.

Paul
Well Crap man!

Now I might have to do this after you post some pics. One thing I will warn is that if yours has the electronic dosing like mine then it is very sensitive and any short circuit will blow your Gicar/Giemme controller. They are not cheap mine cost $300 when I blew mine. Mine is an Elektra Delisioza T-1 1993 model. I had spent quite a bit of time trying to find info out but there is so much info on the newer models that these seem to have been lost. I am interested in what you can find.

Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: PaulM on November 22, 2007, 03:02:02 PM
Well Crap man!

Now I might have to do this after you post some pics.

 >:D

One thing I will warn is that if yours has the electronic dosing like mine then it is very sensitive and any short circuit will blow your Gicar/Giemme controller. They are not cheap mine cost $300 when I blew mine. Mine is an Elektra Delisioza T-1 1993 model. I had spent quite a bit of time trying to find info out but there is so much info on the newer models that these seem to have been lost. I am interested in what you can find.

Thank you for mentioning that. Yes, I have electronics in there too and the possibility of them failing scares me. I would actually prefer a machine with a manually operated group, manual boiler fill, and boiler sight glass, but those "features" seem exceedingly rare in the newer machines. Like it used to be that if your car window wouldn't go down, you'd need a new crank handle, but now you mortgage your house if you ever want to use a drivethru again. :-\

Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Ron_L on November 22, 2007, 05:25:43 PM
Nice CL score, Paul!  What kind of shape is it in?  The stock pic looks like a nice machine.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: PaulM on November 22, 2007, 05:49:10 PM
Nice CL score, Paul!  What kind of shape is it in?  The stock pic looks like a nice machine.

Hey Ron,

Please excuse my ignorance, what is a CL score? [edit, sorry, I get it now, doh!]

Cosmetically it is very good, interior and exterior. When I got it the pump was seized and the post for the autofill solenoid was cracked and leaking. The guy told me that "it was working just last month!" Whatever, pal...

I happened to have another pump on hand, and happened to have another solenoid post of the same type, so actual cash outlay for repairs was $0, but if I had had to have the pump rebuilt and had to replace that post, I am guessing approximately $100 in necessary repairs, including shipping.

I got the machine for $750 plus $50 in gas to pick it up (I drive a dodge dakota..), so that plus the theoretical repair cost brings me to $900 (though actual outlay to date, including gas, is $800), and the machine retails for north of $3,000, so, my initial frustrations aside, I am feeling pretty good so far!

Now to work on that preinfusion...

Paul

Edit: I also had to chip out the group gasket with a 1/8" woodworking chisel. The thing was obviously original to the machine and absolutely fossiilzed, but it did eventually come out. And initially I got very little flow from the group, but a nice soaking in Cafiza took care of that (buyers of used equipment note: the word "backflush" is probably not even in your seller's vocabulary...). I would replace the group gasket and clean the group on any used machine anyway, so I don't consider the minimal expense and trouble involved to be significant, just routine maintenance, all just IMHO of course.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: lurkerjohnny on November 23, 2007, 08:47:05 AM
Good find Paul! At least you don't have to worry about 220v.  What year is that machine?

Quote
I also had to chip out the group gasket with a 1/8" woodworking chisel. The thing was obviously original to the machine and absolutely fossiilzed, but it did eventually come out. And initially I got very little flow from the group, but a nice soaking in Cafiza took care of that (buyers of used equipment note: the word "backflush" is probably not even in your seller's vocabulary...). I would replace the group gasket and clean the group on any used machine anyway, so I don't consider the minimal expense and trouble involved to be significant, just routine maintenance, all just IMHO of course.

I know how you feel.  I can't wait to start hacking away at that gasket on the machine I picked up.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Ron_L on November 24, 2007, 07:14:29 AM
Hey Ron,

Please excuse my ignorance, what is a CL score? [edit, sorry, I get it now, doh!]

Sorry... To lazy to type out Craig's List...  ::)
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: PaulM on November 26, 2007, 04:01:18 PM
Good find Paul! At least you don't have to worry about 220v.  What year is that machine?


Good question. I can't tell for sure, but the seller told me he bought it new three years ago. Allowing for memory failure and seller exaggeration, and considering the overall "clean" look of the machine, I would guess five years or so. Here's a view of the innards, click for larger pic:

(http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/151/vibiemme002fq9.th.jpg) (http://img402.imageshack.us/my.php?image=vibiemme002fq9.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: PaulM on November 26, 2007, 04:03:42 PM
Hey Ron,

Please excuse my ignorance, what is a CL score? [edit, sorry, I get it now, doh!]

Sorry... To lazy to type out Craig's List...  ::)

 ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: FinerGrind on December 02, 2007, 01:32:11 PM
Here is my little Elli - the one that I found at the thrift store and when I saw it from across the store, I just about knocked a little old lady down to run to it.  I bought it for $6 (it was marked $10, but it was a green tag day), and I have about $200 in it for parts, portafilter, etc.  It's a sweet little espresso machine...
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: dan on December 04, 2007, 12:08:35 PM
I love the style of that Elli - it looks like it came straight from the set of some 70's sci-fi movie.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: FinerGrind on December 04, 2007, 02:16:59 PM
I love the style of that Elli - it looks like it came straight from the set of some 70's sci-fi movie.

Thanks Dan!  It has all the features (HX - heat exchange for steam wand, 3-way valve, large boiler) that I was looking for in an espresso machine.  All I have left to do is plum it in, and connect the drain tray up to the drain.  The only thing I don't like about it is there is minimal room between the portafilter and the drain tray for my espresso cups, so I removed the stainless top and set my cup down in the tray.  That is the only negative feedback I have about the Ellimatic. 

It does have a funky retro profile, and I love the oversized steam dial!

I have a bunch of other steam toys that I need to get out and take pictures of.  I go backwards and forwards wrt my interest in coffee - sometimes I'm trying to improve my barista skills, sometime roasting, sometimes cupping (I need a lot of work here), and I'm starting to get back into barista mode and espresso.  When I'm off from work, I drink more espresso than drip, and with Christmas coming up I'll be visiting the Elli more often.  All the microfoam art in the other discussion is making me want to work on mine...

Thanks,
Woody
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: PaulM on December 04, 2007, 07:10:59 PM
Six bucks for that? Holy crap, that is like the best find ever! It's worth much more than that in scrap metal alone.

Congratulations!

Paul
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: John F on December 04, 2007, 07:53:01 PM
Six bucks for that? Holy crap, that is like the best find ever!

No doubt.

$6

Down from $10.

Wow!


John F
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: lurkerjohnny on December 08, 2007, 12:13:38 AM
Congrats on the awesome deal Woody!  Did you have a chance to plumb it in yet?
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: FinerGrind on December 08, 2007, 07:17:31 AM
Congrats on the awesome deal Woody!  Did you have a chance to plumb it in yet?

Not yet - I have what I think is the same problem as others; real estate in the kitchen.  I have a spot picked out, but it will take a little work on my part to rennovate.  And I haven't found an inline water filter yet.  I'm currently using distilled water and/or a Brita pitcher.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: SeeGars on December 18, 2007, 02:29:45 PM
Lemme try this....  It should hit tomorrow.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: SeeGars on December 18, 2007, 03:10:07 PM
Here is our "older" one ...
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: ButtWhiskers on December 20, 2007, 09:33:31 AM
Here is our "older" one ...

Wow!  That looks like part of the set from "Logan's Run".
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Joe on December 20, 2007, 11:45:13 AM
Here is our "older" one ...

Wow!  That looks like part of the set from "Logan's Run".

I was thinking Buck Rogers, kinda looks like Twiggy.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: SeeGars on December 21, 2007, 08:57:39 AM
LMAO!!!
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: BoldJava on December 26, 2007, 08:20:50 AM
Lemme try this....  It should hit tomorrow.

I dropped Capresso a note re:  the tall espresso shot glasses, the one with "legs."  Their response follows.  Skunked.

We do not sell espresso shot glasses.  These were props used by the photographer.  You should be able to find similar glasses at Crate-n-Barrel, Bed Bath and Beyond, Linens and Thins or Williams-Sonoma.
 
Thank you,
CAPRESSO Online
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: SeeGars on December 30, 2007, 08:08:20 AM
WOW

That was.. very helpful of them...  ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Glacier on December 30, 2007, 08:31:57 PM
Here is a pic of my set-up (finally snapped a few pics)


Vibiemme Domobar Super- Stainless Steel Espresso Machine - Semi Auto
Macap M4 Doser Coffee Grinder

(http://i260.photobucket.com/albums/ii23/glacierroasters/DSCF2592.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: BoldJava on January 21, 2008, 05:04:30 AM
Marriage made in heaven, Mr. Macap 4 and Ms. Silvia.  Happy ever after.

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: YasBean on February 23, 2008, 05:08:02 PM
Nothing fancy, but they make me happy.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Glacier on March 03, 2008, 02:00:45 PM
In case I did not mention it (lately)....

note the 2007 GCBC Fantasy Football championship trophy/Mug on top of that little baby of mine!

 ;)

man it loves sitting up there!

Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Chris on March 03, 2008, 02:16:03 PM
Nothing fancy, but they make me happy.

That is a great little setup.  I have had a FF machine and the Solis Maestro Pro (til I broke it...3 times).  :-[

Though I did not have them in a combo, I know they are each capable of nice espresso, and for a reasonable price and great aesthetics.



Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: YasBean on March 03, 2008, 02:33:31 PM
Nothing fancy, but they make me happy.

That is a great little setup.  I have had a FF machine and the Solis Maestro Pro (til I broke it...3 times).  :-[

Though I did not have them in a combo, I know they are each capable of nice espresso, and for a reasonable price and great aesthetics.
Thank you!  Yes, although not perfect, once learned, the Solis does give a nice grind, and the FF is certainly a pretty little machine. 
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: kwksilver on March 31, 2008, 05:06:44 PM
Ah, after seeing all that neatness and cleanliness i thought I needed to show what things look like when you are eccentric, poor, and such things.

One must respect the aluminum foil grounds tray and the Rinaldo knockbox (that's pure convenience I throw the knockbox away every time its full :p )

For your entertainment I also took a picture of my custom electrical work (my landlord is very tolerant of insane students?).
I always have a choice. I can either use my stove or the espresso machine. Since that machine takes LONG to come to heat, the day has two halves (and i insulated the living hell out of its internals I assure you).

Daylight: I drinks coffee
night: I has stove.

before bed the espresso machine gets the plug again...

I hope this entertained you.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: PaulM on March 31, 2008, 05:28:01 PM
Is that really a two group Cimbali? My hat is off to you sir! Very nice machine, and given that who cares about the mess!
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: kwksilver on March 31, 2008, 06:13:00 PM
Heeh yeah it is.
 I have a very tolerant fiancee :p
Since I am a properly poor cheapskate the thing was a  'unknown condition' (non-workign of course) ebay special.
The shipping part was really the greatest adventure. Although i had no idea what I got myself into,  it was fully rebuilt within two months (during first year of med school mind you. so i am guessing most folks could do this faster). now that I have involuntarily learned how to rebuild a commercial machine from ground up, I am happy to share manuals or gained knowledge if anybody is bored enough to do this :p

The machine is seriously fun btw.

Felix
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: PaulM on March 31, 2008, 08:51:04 PM
Oh, that's excellent. Did you have to replace much or was it mostly just a good cleaning?

Just a thought about using the range receptacle for the machine: the breaker for that range is probably rated well above what is necessary for the espresso machine. Which is good because it won't ever nuisance trip. But it is also bad because that machine could be hanging off the wall on fire before the breaker would even think about tripping. So be careful!

Best,
Paul
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: kwksilver on March 31, 2008, 11:09:29 PM
I was very lucky. no spendy parts broken (pump heating element and worst case scenario the boiler are the only candidates that come to mind)
Total cost was this:
machine epay: $290
shipping $230 (freightquote)
parts and portafilter MAYBE $150  (that could have been a lot less if I had known everything i know now :p)

 As I found my groove I realized that I could forego oem gaskets and use high quality things from the plumbing supply store.
Pretty much every single part in those commercial machines (pump, solenoids, everything really) comes from third parties and can be sourced very cheap that way. I didn't fully realize that price difference until some part into the endeavor.


I did learn that directionality of those solenoids is indeed a reality. (that manifested itself in the pump pressure routing partially into the boiler during shot pulls in the beginning. It also caused the hot water tap to be erratic, but that was easily detected.)

It took me some thinking to figure out why a machine would fill the boiler very well, not activate the overpressure but end up filling the boiler during  a shot until I understood the hydraulics of it.

OTHERWISE i have to say i really did take it apart completely, soak everything in HCL replace every gasket and put it back together. (taking a lot of pictures during tear-down was a major helper. Italian manuals are not German.)

The project sort of had distinct phases:

1.) look at complete non-functional machine.  Be afraid
2.) tear it apart cluelessly with growing enthusiasm
3.) realize if I had owned a 240V outlet and tried to plug it in it wouldn't have worked anyways...
4.) bathe everything in HCL
5.) screw everything together
6.) Be scared again
7.) turn it on, notice leaks.
8.) more leaks (everything seems leak free then the heater kicks in, pressure builds and leaks AGAIN.)
9.) finally pull a  shot...LEAKS (from pump pressure in hx lines, leaks at grouphead I)
10.) three days of teflon tape "seek n' destroy" and it was done.  (the leaks were all small dribbles or wet spots, no disasters or anything)

PS: the recipe for leak solving was the same everytime: drain tank, undo connection whip out telfon tape, rinse, repeat.

PPS: I have effectively hijacked this thread. i apologize I won't do any more of this. If anyone actually ends up caring. I have loads of pictures of the process and am happy to pm a moderator to move this stuff to its own thread and ill throw out the whole story with pictures. (it was pretty cool, and the insulation job i did inside in order to justify leaving it on 24hrs a day was kind of intense)

I hope someone got a kick out of this

Felix


PPPS: On the range receptacle.  My landlord Wanja and I traced the circuit and installed those plugs and the outlet.(He is from Yugoslavia I believe, but in America his name is John:p Extremely relaxed, brews his own beer) The machien originally had a NEMA LP630 plug.
It is a 50 amp independent circuit. The espresso machine can do 208-240V single or dual phase. at 240V single phase it is rated for 30Amp max. So far it has been trouble free. IT was the first time doing 240V work for Wanja or I. I realize that at this point all sorts of DIY red flags trigger...
We were very careful triple checked everything and did our homework prior. The receptacle plugs and so forth literally were our personal adventure into 240V circuits. (the espresso machine is a 3 wire deal, the circuit is up to current code so it had 4 wires)
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Monito on April 01, 2008, 10:00:29 PM
Now, I feel part of this group!!!

Just acquired a beauty

Astoria Argenta SAE Junior/Automatic

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: mp on April 02, 2008, 04:50:29 AM
Congratulations Monito,

That machine really dwarfs your ginder.  How much does that beast weigh?

Ciao
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Monito on April 02, 2008, 05:35:55 AM
Congratulations Monito,

That machine really dwarfs your ginder.  How much does that beast weigh?

Ciao
A lot  :P 137 lbs, not counting the water softener.

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: mp on April 02, 2008, 05:59:47 AM
Yeah ... I figured it was over 100 pounds.  That is why I went with the Isomac.  I just did not want to go through the hassle of setting up a commercial machine ... and certainly couldn't position it under my kitchen counter top where she is now ... not to mention the plumb in for the water and drain out.

On the other hand I bet you are getting some great shots.

 ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Monito on April 02, 2008, 06:02:45 AM
...snip...
On the other hand I bet you are getting some great shots.

 ;D
What a difference, I have a 50% Poco Fundo with 50% Sidamo Blend and the shots are impressive. I never had espressos like this before.

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Abouna on April 03, 2008, 05:05:15 AM
Here's mine.  Not much out of the ordinary.

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3258/2367533680_ba4a4ee567_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Monito on April 03, 2008, 05:19:31 AM
Here's mine.  Not much out of the ordinary.
Except for the knives...

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Abouna on April 03, 2008, 05:32:43 AM
Here's mine.  Not much out of the ordinary.
Except for the knives...

Monito

What about them?  They are sharp... ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Monito on April 03, 2008, 05:52:44 AM
Here's mine.  Not much out of the ordinary.
Except for the knives...

Monito

What about them?  They are sharp... ;D
I already like you!!!  >:D

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: kwksilver on April 03, 2008, 01:57:21 PM
Hey Monito,
that's a cool machine. Did you open her up and look at the level of use? If that water softener came with her she might just have been an extremely pain free purchase :p

Since you are a distributor; have 4 roasters and all I seriously doubt you need my help. Should the machine give you troubles, let me know. I have been inside those before:p

really awesome little beast. Do you plan on insulating the boiler and leaving her on?

Regards,
            Felix


Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Monito on April 03, 2008, 08:38:19 PM
Hey Monito,
that's a cool machine. Did you open her up and look at the level of use? If that water softener came with her she might just have been an extremely pain free purchase :p
I cannot complain, I looked inside and it looks softly used, There was a leak at the steamer and I put the missing O-ring today.
BTW, checked the softener hardness today and it was "Perfect"

Quote
Since you are a distributor; have 4 roasters and all I seriously doubt you need my help. Should the machine give you troubles, let me know. I have been inside those before:p
Wrong, I do need help, I have never done commercial espresso before. I cannot find that programming switch, the only thing I see is a jumper on the back of the control.


Quote
really awesome little beast. Do you plan on insulating the boiler and leaving her on?
Isn't that something, I was thinking about that today.

I bought fiberglass paper for my roaster, here are the specs:
Fiberglass paper withstands high temperatures without shrinking or losing shape. Use it to insulate air furnaces, hot water tanks, and air conditioning ducts. Meets UL 94V0.
    * Temperature Range: -425? to +1200? F
    * Heat Flow Rate (K-factor):  0.21 Btu/hr. x in./sq. ft. @ 75? F
    * Density: 8.7 lbs./cu. ft.
    * Color: White
   
And I was staring at it today and was going to ask that question around here.

What do I need to do? How do I tape it/hold it in place.

Thank you,

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: kwksilver on April 04, 2008, 04:34:06 PM
Heeh,

okies, programming mode:

I don't think argenta has a flip switch for that. (some astoria's do have such a  flip switch and the part number for that is on espressoparts.com)

Ii think yours works like this:

"To get into programming - switch off machine, hold down continuous
button on left hand pad, keeping held down switch machine back on and
continue to hold down button for about 10 seconds"

well, the stuff you have certainly works for insulating. Just like 'glass-wool' it is terribly hazardous when inhaled or swalled, but luckily your stuff is in a  form that doesn't really fray out many fibers. either way be sure that you either drown all surfaces of your insulatiuon job in epoxy, or simply be cheap and cover your insulation job in aluminum foil from your kitchen. since things are external to your insulation job any regular tape will do. for the sake of adhering the alumium foil. I used some electrical tape and some other clear junk i had.
The temperature of the HX (so steam...) boiler you are insulating isn't tragically high at all. also since we are on the topic of taming a commercial beast for the home, go for about as low of a pressure as you can tickle out of your pressurestat. (.9 or so if you look at the  [yellow] gauge)


(glass wool does not melt at any obtainable temperature, you can easily use that it is very cheap. you need to somehow trap a body of air with your fiberglass paper if you want to use it to insulate. So for the boiler most people use glass wool/ pipe wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil or anything of that sort to contain the harmful fibers. Many advocate the use of zipties for the insulation. That certainly works, but is way too noble for me, and does nothing to allow me to truly isolate the fibrous glass wool from my food area.)

There are a million ways to do it. I hate plastic even more than glass wool, so I went with glass wool and then in a most anal manner encased it. here is a thread for your convenience and entertainment:




I hope this helps you.

Cheers,
          Felix

PS: I meant to offer pics of all these things, but the camera has no battery and the fiancee has the charger. I will take pics of insulation, pressurestat and such things asap if they are needed.

Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Monito on April 04, 2008, 08:55:52 PM
...snip...

Ii think yours works like this:

"To get into programming - switch off machine, hold down continuous
button on left hand pad, keeping held down switch machine back on and
continue to hold down button for about 10 seconds"
...snip...
Monito is confused...After I do the above what do I do?

------------------------
|  1 shot    |    2 shots  |
|              |                |
------------------------
|  Cont.     |    Prog/     |
|              |     Stop     |
------------------------

Ok, looking at the drawing above, how do I do it?

Thanks,

Monito
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Glacier on April 06, 2008, 10:59:55 AM
Here's mine.  Not much out of the ordinary.
Except for the knives...

Monito

what's holding those knives up? is their a magnet in the wood in each spot?
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Jeffo on April 06, 2008, 11:29:51 AM
Here's mine.  Not much out of the ordinary.

Except for the knives...

Monito


what's holding those knives up? is their a magnet in the wood in each spot?


You can go to his site and see how that works:
http://benchcrafted.com

At first I thought either he's one of those people who's into knives (can't think of the term) or a mass murderer.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Glacier on April 06, 2008, 11:53:51 AM
Here's mine.  Not much out of the ordinary.

Except for the knives...

Monito


what's holding those knives up? is their a magnet in the wood in each spot?


You can go to his site and see how that works:
[url]http://benchcrafted.com[/url]

At first I thought either he's one of those people who's into knives (can't think of the term) or a mass murderer.


I have to buy me a couple of those... ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: Abouna on April 12, 2008, 05:03:43 AM
Quote
what's holding those knives up? is their a magnet in the wood in each spot?

You can go to his site and see how that works:
[url]http://benchcrafted.com[/url]

At first I thought either he's one of those people who's into knives (can't think of the term) or a mass murderer.


Thanks a lot!  Doesn't everybody have a knife collection like that  ;)

There's a bit more information on that particular BLOK here (http://benchcrafted.blogspot.com/) if you're interested.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on April 12, 2008, 05:22:01 AM

Thanks a lot!  Doesn't everybody have a knife collection like that  ;)

There's a bit more information on that particular BLOK...

We have a similar arrangement to hold the knives.  Ours is next to the stove.  They are great in that drawers and blocks dull knives over time.  With the magnetic strip, they are always visibly available.  No digging and rummaging thru a drawer.

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on April 12, 2008, 07:05:35 AM
and blocks dull knives over time.  With the magnetic strip, they are always visibly available.  No digging and rummaging thru a drawer.
B|Java

Drawers are a very unsafe place to store knives, the best way to dull them.

Blocks only dull knives for the people too dull to store the knives w/ the edge up. 
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on April 12, 2008, 07:10:30 AM

Drawers are a very unsafe place to store knives, the best way to dull them.

Blocks only dull knives for the people too dull to store the knives w/ the edge up. 

Clearly you live singly; try that rhyme repeatedly in a family of four <grins>.

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on April 12, 2008, 07:13:21 AM
"Are we not men?"
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on April 12, 2008, 07:56:24 AM
I don't think a magnetic strip would hold our Kimmoy bombshell cleavers (made from the scrap bombshells that were lobbed over from mainland China up until recently).  I was thinking of getting one of those blocks stuffed with plastic tubes.  The knives squeeze in between the tubes.
Title: Re: Show Off your espresso Machine Here.
Post by: milowebailey on April 12, 2008, 08:36:08 AM

There are a million ways to do it. I hate plastic even more than glass wool, so I went with glass wool and then in a most anal manner encased it. here is a thread for your convenience and entertainment:

[url]http://www.home-barista.com/forums/more-on-boiler-insulation-t4293.html[/url]


I hope this helps you.

Cheers,
          Felix



Felix

Great link and great timing.... I will do this once I get the Brasilia cleaned up.

I was considering this and wondering what material to use.....

Milowebailey
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Abouna on April 12, 2008, 08:06:43 PM
I don't think a magnetic strip would hold our Kimmoy bombshell cleavers (made from the scrap bombshells that were lobbed over from mainland China up until recently).  I was thinking of getting one of those blocks stuffed with plastic tubes.  The knives squeeze in between the tubes.

I'll bet you a free 12" MAG-BLOK it will hold your cleaver.  If it does, you pay, if it's doesn't you keep it for free!  One caveat: This is a real kitchen cleaver right?  Not some Medieval execution hatchet?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: PaulM on April 12, 2008, 10:12:03 PM
I don't think a magnetic strip would hold our Kimmoy bombshell cleavers (made from the scrap bombshells that were lobbed over from mainland China up until recently).

All the way to Michigan? The threat is more serious than I thought!
 ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on April 13, 2008, 10:39:42 AM
I don't think a magnetic strip would hold our Kimmoy bombshell cleavers (made from the scrap bombshells that were lobbed over from mainland China up until recently).
All the way to Michigan? The threat is more serious than I thought!
 ;D
No, to Kimmoy!  Used to live in Taiwan, still make a 1-2 month trip each year.  Sharp knives!  The explosion hardens the steel.
I think I may just try one of those MAG-BLOKs.  Very nice looking!  A Wenge will fit the new digs very well!  (And I will use the kitchen cleaver, not the machete for the challenge.)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: PaulM on April 13, 2008, 12:44:26 PM
Neat!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Abouna on April 13, 2008, 02:25:28 PM
I don't think a magnetic strip would hold our Kimmoy bombshell cleavers (made from the scrap bombshells that were lobbed over from mainland China up until recently).
All the way to Michigan? The threat is more serious than I thought!
 ;D
No, to Kimmoy!  Used to live in Taiwan, still make a 1-2 month trip each year.  Sharp knives!  The explosion hardens the steel.
I think I may just try one of those MAG-BLOKs.  Very nice looking!  A Wenge will fit the new digs very well!  (And I will use the kitchen cleaver, not the machete for the challenge.)


OK, can I take this to mean you're accepting?

If so, send me you're address info and I'll shoot one of to you tomorrow.

NIX that.  Just saw youre email...doh!  Wenge 12" coming you're way.  Cheers.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shep on April 15, 2008, 01:04:28 PM
I am trying hard to avoid this thread because I have it bad for a new espresso machine. After all, how can a roaster expect to produce a good espresso blend without a good machine to try it on? Or, so I tell myself!


Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Glacier on April 15, 2008, 07:59:43 PM
I am trying hard to avoid this thread because I have it bad for a new espresso machine. After all, how can a roaster expect to produce a good espresso blend without a good machine to try it on? Or, so I tell myself!


Shep

It's kind of important, I would think- I attempted to hit Nirvana with mine when I first got it and was completely obsessed, and ultimately perfected my blend, tamp, roast, etc.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Abouna on April 17, 2008, 06:17:01 AM
I think I may just try one of those MAG-BLOKs.  Very nice looking!  A Wenge will fit the new digs very well!  (And I will use the kitchen cleaver, not the machete for the challenge.)


OK, Curtis, whats the verdict?  >:D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on April 17, 2008, 12:35:54 PM
I think I may just try one of those MAG-BLOKs.  Very nice looking!  A Wenge will fit the new digs very well!  (And I will use the kitchen cleaver, not the machete for the challenge.)

OK, whats the verdict?  >:D
Just arrived yesterday.  Dang!  I lost!  In fact, that cleaver sticks on so fast I am worried my wife will have to call me each time she needs it! :)

Very nice!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on April 23, 2008, 07:54:50 PM
I think I may just try one of those MAG-BLOKs.  Very nice looking!  A Wenge will fit the new digs very well!  (And I will use the kitchen cleaver, not the machete for the challenge.)


OK, whats the verdict?  >:D

Just arrived yesterday.  Dang!  I lost!  In fact, that cleaver sticks on so fast I am worried my wife will have to call me each time she needs it! :)

Very nice!

Well, the result of this challenge can be seen here. (http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?topic=3591.msg49771#msg49771)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: PaulM on April 24, 2008, 09:07:56 AM
In fact, that cleaver sticks on so fast I am worried my wife will have to call me each time she needs it! :)

I think that's the "husband safety feature."
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on April 27, 2008, 02:09:48 PM
Here is one of my espresso machines.... sort of.

It's a Jabena, which I picked up in Ethiopia on my last business trip.  You can read about the traditional coffee ceremony here:

http://www.epicurean.com/articles/ethiopian-coffee-ceremony.html

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: miKe mcKoffee on April 28, 2008, 07:30:51 AM
I am trying hard to avoid this thread because I have it bad for a new espresso machine. After all, how can a roaster expect to produce a good espresso blend without a good machine to try it on? Or, so I tell myself!

Shep
I'd think you can't. Reminds me of the guy who came in a couple months ago to ask if he could use my PID'd 3grp Linea to help him test his espresso blend. (Not a home roaster but a commercial roasting enterprise, his customers not happy with his blend.)  Uh hey guy, what's that USRC 3k for sitting right over there! Sure I'll spend time and money on equipment to help the local competition...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: fanelda on May 01, 2008, 09:05:31 AM
Proud to display my setup on the antique jeweler's table that I always wondered how to use it!  It is the perfect height!  The oak finish is properly protected with a sheet of tempered glass, which makes clean up so much nicer now.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: sleebus.jones on May 07, 2008, 04:41:25 PM
Here's my setup.  I did the PID myself, it's showing low temp because I just turned it on.  Had to have the purty lights on for you folks.   :D

(http://a2.vox.com/6a00e398a943af000400f48cf5e5020003-500pi) (http://sleebus.vox.com/library/photo/6a00e398a943af000400f48cf5e5020003.html)

IMG00213.JPG (http://sleebus.vox.com/library/photo/6a00e398a943af000400f48cf5e5020003.html) from http://sleebus.vox.com/ (http://sleebus.vox.com/)

(http://a3.vox.com/6a00e398a943af000400f48cf5e5030003-500pi) (http://sleebus.vox.com/library/photo/6a00e398a943af000400f48cf5e5030003.html)

IMG00212.JPG (http://sleebus.vox.com/library/photo/6a00e398a943af000400f48cf5e5030003.html) from http://sleebus.vox.com/ (http://sleebus.vox.com/)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Abouna on May 07, 2008, 05:01:35 PM
I miss my Rocky.  I'd pick up a doserless if I could find one cheap for drip.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: cfsheridan on May 14, 2008, 04:23:07 PM
Finally made the plunge thanks to folks always willing to unload their gear...

(http://noquartercoffee.com/images/solis1.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: kwksilver on May 15, 2008, 05:19:55 PM
That Solis you have there is a trooper! I had one of those for a long while. In its segment it certainly outdid my FF X3.
pretty cool machine.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Chris on July 15, 2008, 02:20:46 PM
Finally made the plunge thanks to folks always willing to unload their gear...


That is one sweet machine!!!  Where did you ever find something so sweet?

All I can say is sweetness!!

 ;D

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: cfsheridan on July 15, 2008, 02:22:57 PM

That is one sweet machine!!!  Where did you ever find something so sweet?

All I can say is sweetness!!

 ;D



I got it where everyone else gets their equipment - SD's finest used coffee equipment supply. ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ccfore on August 12, 2008, 09:14:20 PM
Just got the Elektra T1 plumbed in.  With a VERY understanding (non-coffee drinker at that!) SO, I get a whole corner of the kitchen. (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r69/ccfore/IMG_3415.jpg)(http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r69/ccfore/IMG_3422.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on August 12, 2008, 09:21:16 PM
That's beautiful!  Looks like lots of yummy fun.  If some of the kooks around here got lodged into that corner, they might never come out.   
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Joe on August 12, 2008, 10:18:04 PM
That's the new version of my machine. I love my Elektra T-1

http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?topic=2550.0


Joe
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: donn on September 03, 2008, 05:35:43 PM
We upgraded to a larger La Pavoni than we really needed, have been using it for several years now.
(http://donnc.smugmug.com/photos/190765210_vVNzh-M.jpg)

But my favorite is really this little Zerowatt:
(http://donnc.smugmug.com/photos/365157906_2symF-XL.jpg)

Very simple - inside is a heating element and thermostat, and a piston and spring.  Unlike the La Pavoni, Elektra et al. style of domestic levers, this kind of machine does not offer any kind of steam - so the water can be heated to the right temperature for espresso.  (A La Pavoni has to make espresso with water from its steam boiler, so there are intractable temperature problems, and of course it's awkward to add more water once the machine is heated up.)  Various similar machines were made decades ago for the European market, but I guess steam capability is too important for the design to ever return.  Anyway, for me this machine makes slightly better espresso than the one above.

Grinder is a little square Nuova Simonelli.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: FinerGrind on September 03, 2008, 06:13:57 PM
All these beautiful espresso machines - I'm getting upgraditus!  The ones on display here are really something else.

My little Elli needs new seals <sigh> another project waiting for me...  I'm missing my Sunday espresso.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: pravspresso on September 04, 2008, 05:42:32 PM
These are all beautiful....this has officially pushed me over the edge.

I was debating a PID Silva but i saw the homebarista comparison vs. the Alexia.

I'm switching this or next year...going to pick up the PID alexia from caffetech in Canada.

I tossed in some art for good measure.

Cheers!!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: psedillo on October 03, 2008, 06:31:46 PM
My Vibiemme DoubleDomo is finally setup and producing espresso!

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3011/2911091596_1277ff5a39.jpg)

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3120/2910246835_a9df756ee7.jpg)

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3131/2910242941_1792afb653.jpg)

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3051/2911098378_8db74af05b.jpg)

staylor's espresso blend // empty

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3222/2911100796_517cfde1ac.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on October 03, 2008, 06:46:00 PM
That is just beautiful.  Let me wipe away a tear...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on October 03, 2008, 07:54:51 PM
Nice images dude, and I'm also wiping a tear from my eye... seeing that empty jar. ;-)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grinderz on October 03, 2008, 10:18:32 PM
Substitute some of Stubbie's Moreninha Formosa for the Sumatra and that's almost exactly what I've been pulling shots with this week. Sniff.

Time to check the stash to see what the Sumatra situation is...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shep on December 30, 2008, 04:39:31 PM
I only thought I was in trouble when I purchased a coffee roaster. Now that I have Glacier's Vibiemme and Macap I have gone over the deep end! I spent 3 years with a Gaggia Coffee Deluxe and Rocky, pulling doubles about every night. I never did milk based drinks though. I am just thrilled with this new setup. I am going to have to do some milk drinks now because this thing has a steamer that would power a turbine! Who has time to roast coffee? I've got important things to learn, like microfoam and latte art! ;D

Shot one on the machine was not so hot, literally. Shot two was absolutely perfect! Beginner's luck. I wasn't even using anything special. I have a lot of samples right now so I grabbed some Sumatra and Kenya and what a lovely shot it made! Oh, the crema! Oh, the lovely brown hue! Oh, the beauty of it all! Gotta run...YouTube is calling...I must learn to produce microfoam...now! I'll trade my YM10 for a good lesson in microfoam! Who needs a roaster when you have espresso!

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on December 30, 2008, 07:54:59 PM
I only thought I was in trouble when I purchased a coffee roaster. Now that I have Glacier's Vibiemme and Macap I have gone over the deep end! I spent 3 years with a Gaggia Coffee Deluxe and Rocky, pulling doubles about every night. I never did milk based drinks though. I am just thrilled with this new setup. I am going to have to do some milk drinks now because this thing has a steamer that would power a turbine! Who has time to roast coffee? I've got important things to learn, like microfoam and latte art! ;D

Shot one on the machine was not so hot, literally. Shot two was absolutely perfect! Beginner's luck. I wasn't even using anything special. I have a lot of samples right now so I grabbed some Sumatra and Kenya and what a lovely shot it made! Oh, the crema! Oh, the lovely brown hue! Oh, the beauty of it all! Gotta run...YouTube is calling...I must learn to produce microfoam...now! I'll trade my YM10 for a good lesson in microfoam! Who needs a roaster when you have espresso!

Shep

the end of b-town beans and the birth of b-town bistro
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shep on December 31, 2008, 04:57:09 AM
I only thought I was in trouble when I purchased a coffee roaster. Now that I have Glacier's Vibiemme and Macap I have gone over the deep end! I spent 3 years with a Gaggia Coffee Deluxe and Rocky, pulling doubles about every night. I never did milk based drinks though. I am just thrilled with this new setup. I am going to have to do some milk drinks now because this thing has a steamer that would power a turbine! Who has time to roast coffee? I've got important things to learn, like microfoam and latte art! ;D

Shot one on the machine was not so hot, literally. Shot two was absolutely perfect! Beginner's luck. I wasn't even using anything special. I have a lot of samples right now so I grabbed some Sumatra and Kenya and what a lovely shot it made! Oh, the crema! Oh, the lovely brown hue! Oh, the beauty of it all! Gotta run...YouTube is calling...I must learn to produce microfoam...now! I'll trade my YM10 for a good lesson in microfoam! Who needs a roaster when you have espresso!

Shep

the end of b-town beans and the birth of b-town bistro

Somebody get me an apron...and another gallon of milk!  >:D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ButtWhiskers on December 31, 2008, 06:58:33 AM
Somebody get me an apron...and another gallon of milk!  >:D
It's like printing money, I hear...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shep on December 31, 2008, 12:44:05 PM
Somebody get me an apron...and another gallon of milk!  >:D
It's like printing money, I hear...

Sure it is. ;) It is a good thing I started the roasting biz with no expectations of making money, because its mostly just a rat hole and a work camp!

Don't think I'll be entering any latte art contests any time soon!

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shep on January 01, 2009, 06:14:18 AM
This morning I am pulling shot after shot as part of some experimentation. When the Macap came, UPS had been a little rough with it and the bean hopper had broken off. A new one came in the mail yesterday. So, this morning I have been dialing in the grinder. Once I got it about right I became witness to the truth that has been preached here and elsewhere for years...the grinder makes the difference! I have been using a Rocky but always found it challenging to dial it in for the proper pull. When using it with the Vibiemme, I was able to get really nice shots. However, when I got the Macap set up, for the first time ever, I was pulling all crema. Very cool.

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shep on January 04, 2009, 02:15:10 PM
Well, I've gotten much better at the microfoam thing. Far from latte art material, but improving. Open up the steamer on this machine and it takes all of about 10 seconds to steam 8 or 10 ounces of milk...yikes!

I would guess I have pulled at least 100 doubles in the past 5 or 6 days. I am giving Glacier's machine a workout. I have been sampling about a zillion blend possibilities for a new group of customers. I had a blend already that I was reasonably happy with, but I have eliminated one of the coffees from my offering as I go all organic. After sampling way too many shots I have reached one conclusion: as a straight espresso drinker, I much prefer Sumatra-based (or at least a high percentage) blends over Brazil-based blends. That might change if I had other Brazil's at my disposal, but as of right now,using the Poco Fundo I have on hand, I'm all about the Sumatra.

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: J.Jirehs Roaster on January 04, 2009, 03:44:31 PM
Well, I've gotten much better at the microfoam thing. Far from latte art material, but improving. Open up the steamer on this machine and it takes all of about 10 seconds to steam 8 or 10 ounces of milk...yikes!

I would guess I have pulled at least 100 doubles in the past 5 or 6 days. I am giving Glacier's machine a workout. I have been sampling about a zillion blend possibilities for a new group of customers. I had a blend already that I was reasonably happy with, but I have eliminated one of the coffees from my offering as I go all organic. After sampling way too many shots I have reached one conclusion: as a straight espresso drinker, I much prefer Sumatra-based (or at least a high percentage) blends over Brazil-based blends. That might change if I had other Brazil's at my disposal, but as of right now,using the Poco Fundo I have on hand, I'm all about the Sumatra.

Shep

let us start a pool on when Shep will actually be able to sleep (or not be able too brew to stay awake)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shep on January 05, 2009, 02:19:56 AM
Back to the "day job" today (GE) after only working one week in the past 7. I need all the help I can get! These are the mornings I wake up (4:30...ugh!) and say, "You know, working for yourself is the only way to go!"

Shep
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on February 22, 2009, 06:40:13 PM
Work in progress & what I was using two years ago.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on February 22, 2009, 09:01:29 PM
You rebuilding another Bunn Robert?

What is the one you were using 2 years ago.  I cannot make it out in the picture.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on February 22, 2009, 09:17:43 PM
You rebuilding another Bunn Robert?

What is the one you were using 2 years ago.  I cannot make it out in the picture.

 :)

I've got one PID'd Bunn I'm using now - I just completely rebuilt it & am waiting for the plumber to install it. I have another that I'm stripping for a rebuild - I'll be sending the exposed panels to be painted. It'll be my keeper when it's done. I also have a Gaggia Espresso with PID & OPV mods - it's the machine I use on a daily basis.

The picture also shows the Mazzer Super Jolly grinder I had - I use a Rancilio MD-50 now- it's quieter & creates less mess. The drip machine is a Melitta Clarity - aka, "The poor man's Technivorm."

Bigger pictures used.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Glacier on April 15, 2009, 03:05:16 PM
Well, I've gotten much better at the microfoam thing. Far from latte art material, but improving. Open up the steamer on this machine and it takes all of about 10 seconds to steam 8 or 10 ounces of milk...yikes!

I would guess I have pulled at least 100 doubles in the past 5 or 6 days. I am giving Glacier's machine a workout. I have been sampling about a zillion blend possibilities for a new group of customers. I had a blend already that I was reasonably happy with, but I have eliminated one of the coffees from my offering as I go all organic. After sampling way too many shots I have reached one conclusion: as a straight espresso drinker, I much prefer Sumatra-based (or at least a high percentage) blends over Brazil-based blends. That might change if I had other Brazil's at my disposal, but as of right now,using the Poco Fundo I have on hand, I'm all about the Sumatra.

Shep

How bout a picture of that set up and a resulting shot of coffee Nirvana as proof to the group.

I miss that bad boy some days...bad.

I am so glad someone got it that would use it and appreciate it


Bo



Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: GC7 on April 20, 2009, 07:10:01 PM
(http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/GeoffreyC/GC7setup.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: dmankin on June 21, 2009, 08:10:30 AM
Cunill 'Full Metal' grinder and the BUNN ES-1A with PID (rebuilt with the kind... and sometimes daily counsel of Tex!)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bsEwFJOtXI&feature=channel_page[/youtube]
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on June 21, 2009, 10:15:38 AM
                            Pulling a nice double
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOchVJwbJYI[/youtube]

PID'd Bunn ES-1A & Rancilio MD-50 grinder w/cut down bean hopper. La Pavoni Pro poking its group over the Bunn's shoulder.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: bunnysandefur on June 29, 2009, 07:06:43 PM
My espresso machine is in the witness protection program, attempting to preserve its dignity.

Too late, I say.

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3417/3674042362_628d127195.jpg?v=0)

I pondered publicly shaming my moka pot, too. Though somehow I still don't think it is quite as bad as this.

I feel so much freedom from outing myself sometimes.

Sometimes.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on June 29, 2009, 07:45:00 PM

I pondered publicly shaming my moka pot, too. Though somehow I still don't think it is quite as bad as this.


^^^  Is this sorta like when my car's acting up and I take it real slow past the junkyard to give a hint- shape up, or you're coming here next- ?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on June 29, 2009, 07:50:01 PM
I'm still waiting for John's modded Gaggia Carezza to make it's first appearance. C'mon John, show us what you've got so far!  8)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Dante on June 29, 2009, 09:18:15 PM
Here are my babies -

Quickmill Vetrano... (with my Macap M4 grinder)

(http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a280/dtp279/Coffee/VetranoMacap.jpg)

And my mainstay - a commercial 2 group La Cimbali M30 Classic!!!

(http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a280/dtp279/Coffee/Valle-IMG_0381.jpg)

I love these machines!  ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: pravspresso on July 19, 2009, 01:14:17 PM
UPGRADE COMPLETE.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on July 19, 2009, 02:51:14 PM
UPGRADE COMPLETE.



BIG improvement - going from the Alexia to a Classic. Curious about the Alexia; I thought it had an internal heating element? I didn't realize you had to use an external heat source - that must create problems?  ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on July 19, 2009, 02:52:03 PM
LOL

C'mon Gal, make a commitment to just one of those things and move on!  ;D

BTW: Do any of them work?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: dmankin on July 19, 2009, 03:11:07 PM
... I thought it had an internal heating element? I didn't realize you had to use an external heat source - that must create problems?  ;D
I've heard of dual boiler - but never a dual burner!   ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on July 19, 2009, 03:37:09 PM
... I thought it had an internal heating element? I didn't realize you had to use an external heat source - that must create problems?  ;D
I've heard of dual boiler - but never a dual burner!   ;D

Well, if you think about it it makes sense - two single purpose appliances married into a multi-function system! Pure genius!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: pravspresso on July 20, 2009, 05:38:33 AM
Jokers!....LOL

I may as well come clean. Sure the machine isn't on the burner but my mug is!!

YES! i turn on the burner and put my mug on it..so it's nice and cozy hot!!!

;)



Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Warrior372 on November 11, 2009, 07:57:46 PM
Here are mine!

1980 Conti Prestina

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Warrior372 on November 11, 2009, 08:01:06 PM
Front and back of my 1972 La San Marco 75 Series

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Warrior372 on November 11, 2009, 08:04:45 PM
My 1991 Olympia Cremina
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Warrior372 on November 11, 2009, 08:05:49 PM
1952 Conti Empress 2 Group > obviously a work in process here :)

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Warrior372 on November 11, 2009, 08:07:39 PM
Last but not least my 2008-09 Magister ES60 > They are manufactured by Rancilio for Magister. It is essentially a rebadged S27.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on November 11, 2009, 08:15:20 PM
What: You're trying to compete with milo? Give it up - the guy's a pack rat! ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on November 12, 2009, 07:25:22 AM
I've only got 2....for now.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on November 13, 2009, 12:17:49 PM

Have you seen this puppy?

(http://images.craigslist.org/3m73oc3l95T85Qc5P99bd94adc318d7dd1fcb.jpg) (http://newyork.craigslist.org/brk/app/1464364040.html)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Warrior372 on November 13, 2009, 02:30:38 PM
I would be willing to bet Juanjo from CoffeeGeek did the refurb job on it.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on November 13, 2009, 06:50:23 PM
I would be willing to bet Juanjo from CoffeeGeek did the refurb job on it.


It's a current production model so I doubt if anyone needed to do a restoration on it.

(http://www.qualityespresso.net/imatges/maquinas/futurmat/palanca_futurmat/espressofuturmatpalanca.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Warrior372 on November 13, 2009, 09:50:03 PM
Oh. . . While it is quite snazzy looking. Is it yours?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: cfsheridan on March 08, 2010, 05:25:13 PM
A not-so great shot of my new setup.

Vibiemme Domo Double and Mazzer Mini-E

Down, down, the rabbit hole I fall....

(http://www.noquartercoffee.com/images/sprosetup2.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 08, 2010, 06:59:02 PM
A not-so great shot of my new setup.

Vibiemme Domo Double and Mazzer Mini-E

Down, down, the rabbit hole I fall....


Nice setup - I'm jealous! :-X :-X
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on March 08, 2010, 07:10:10 PM
A not-so great shot of my new setup.

Vibiemme Domo Double and Mazzer Mini-E

Down, down, the rabbit hole I fall....

You don't have it PIDed yet? ;D ;D dude... it came PIDed.....  :notworthy: :notworthy:

We'll talk about that in April!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: cfsheridan on March 08, 2010, 07:30:02 PM
A not-so great shot of my new setup.

Vibiemme Domo Double and Mazzer Mini-E

Down, down, the rabbit hole I fall....

You don't have it PIDed yet? ;D ;D dude... it came PIDed.....  :notworthy: :notworthy:

We'll talk about that in April!

I've been researching and saving for a while, reading up on what machine would suit the next step.  Was looking to make one leap and then learn, learn, learn for a while.  Thus, PID, double boiler, and the grinder deal just fell into my lap.

PID was a requirement.  Need to be able to dial things around given how many different coffees come through here.  Figure many of these beans may need lower brew temps.  The PID reads the brew boiler temperature, so I'll need to put in Eric's mod to get closer to the brew temp.

Humbled by how much I have to learn about espresso, and that knowledge now stares back at me in shiny goodness.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on March 08, 2010, 08:09:22 PM
Chad ... I double jealous ... that was the machine I wanted but did not have the funds to get.  Did you purchase it brand new or did you find a pre-owned machine?

Have you experimented with varying the temps as per coffee varietal or not?  What grinder are you upgrading from?

These E-61 groups make a mean shot ... as I'm sure you're finding out.

Enjoy my friend and congratulations.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 08, 2010, 08:26:16 PM
A not-so great shot of my new setup.

Vibiemme Domo Double and Mazzer Mini-E

Down, down, the rabbit hole I fall....


One thing of note Chad, those gauges are probably not accurate UNLESS they were calibrated by the vendor before it was delivered. Bourdon gauges are infamous for getting knocked out of calibration by the bouncing and shocks that are common in shipping.

Since tuning an espresso machine is so critical to good espresso, I suggest borrowing an accurate portafilter pressure gauge to check the group pressure.

You said it's PID equipped, but it looks like the boiler pressure gauge is still hooked up, so I suggest not relying on it for the same reason. Seriously, I've checked gauges on a couple dozen machines and I've yet to find one that was dead-on accurate.

edited: That sounds like I'm a know-it-all - but really, all I'm trying to say is those gauges should be treated as suspect until proven otherwise.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: cfsheridan on March 08, 2010, 08:39:23 PM
Fair advice.  Left gauge is steam boiler pressure, right gauge is brew pump pressure, only useful during a shot or backflush.  PID and its thermocouple are on the top end of the brew boiler.  Plan to put Eric's gauge in to get a closer reading of the group temperature, as the brew boiler temp is likely 20°F higher or so than the temperature at the group.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on March 08, 2010, 08:42:23 PM
Haha, as you stand at the edge of the hole, does it look deep? ;-)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grover on March 08, 2010, 08:52:18 PM
I just picked this up. La Cimbala M29 start and Mazzar Mini Timer. My first espresso machine. Seems to me to be a well thought out machine. The pump had a stainless mesh filter that had what looked like dryer lint coating it. Rinsed that off and then found one of the group head selenoids was scaled up. I was amazed at how little scale was inside of every other fitting I opened up as I tried to trace the water flow problem. Works great now. Have ordered a new matched set of parker selenoid valve bodies and new group head gaskets. The small problems it had allowed me to get it for a very good price as it was not working.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 08, 2010, 08:54:14 PM
Haha, as you stand at the edge of the hole, does it look deep? ;-)


That's rich; it NEVER looks as deep as it really is! >:D Let's make sure of his commitment to going over the edge before we tell him the truth. :occasion14:
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 08, 2010, 09:00:36 PM
I just picked this up. La Cimbala M29 start and Mazzar Mini Timer. My first espresso machine. Seems to me to be a well thought out machine. The pump had a stainless mesh filter that had what looked like dryer lint coating it. Rinsed that off and then found one of the group head selenoids was scaled up. I was amazed at how little scale was inside of every other fitting I opened up as I tried to trace the water flow problem. Works great now. Have ordered a new matched set of parker selenoid valve bodies and new group head gaskets. The small problems it had allowed me to get it for a very good price as it was not working.

Great espresso machine! I had a La Cimbali M32 Classic 2-group for 6 months (it just took up too much space). I'm convinced that La Cimbali makes a great HX machine.

It's cool the things folks practically throw away out of ignorance. Bad for them, but good for those of us willing to take a chance. I've worked on dozens of used machines and I've only seen one that needed more than a couple hundred dollars to get in working condition.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on March 08, 2010, 09:21:37 PM
Haha, as you stand at the edge of the hole, does it look deep? ;-)


That's rich; it NEVER looks as deep as it really is! >:D Let's make sure of his commitment to going over the edge before we tell him the truth. :occasion14:

You are right, it NEVER does. I think the Chadinator is going to dig it.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grover on March 09, 2010, 03:39:59 AM
Tex......I purchased this for my girlfriend who is opening a bookstore/coffeeshop and had asked you for advice earlier and you had given the advice that the machine is only a small part of the equation....perhaps the least important. She is roasting her own coffie now and has Cunhill grinders, and the Mazzar Mini if she needs it. I like the semi auto twist knobs on this machine and the massive group heads that transfer and hold the heat from the tank which is tucked up right next to them. It also came with a 8liter water softener which I notice you had endorsed on another forum.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: thejavaman on March 09, 2010, 05:01:11 AM
A not-so great shot of my new setup.

Vibiemme Domo Double and Mazzer Mini-E

Down, down, the rabbit hole I fall....

Man, that's a nice looking set-up.  Congrats, Chad.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: dmankin on March 09, 2010, 09:33:44 AM
Welcome to the club, Chad!     ;D   There's no looking back now.  Enjoy

David
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 09, 2010, 10:02:16 AM
Welcome to the club, Chad!     ;D   There's no looking back now.  Enjoy

David


They're especially nice when they're working, right David? >:D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: dmankin on March 09, 2010, 03:19:25 PM
Amen, Brother!   :angel:
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on March 09, 2010, 07:41:48 PM
Okay, okay! Now, I feel like l need to show off my new set-up.   It started last October, when l replaced my oh so cool but imprecise "Flying Eagle" grinder with a Baratza Vario.  That reveled to me that my problem may not have been the grinder, but the machine, so out with the Francis!Francis! X5, and in with the Vibiemme Super Double Boiler.  (See, dreams can come true!)

The problem is, l no longer have any excuses...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: yorel23 on March 09, 2010, 08:19:47 PM
Okay, okay! Now, I feel like l need to show off my new set-up.   It started last October, when l replaced my oh so cool but imprecise "Flying Eagle" grinder with a Baratza Vario.  That reveled to me that my problem may not have been the grinder, but the machine, so out with the Francis!Francis! X5, and in with the Vibiemme Super Double Boiler.  (See, dreams can come true!)

The problem is, l no longer have any excuses...

Welllll.... If it's excuses you want, just send me the Vibiemme and I'll send you my Gaggia Carezza free of charge! ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on March 09, 2010, 08:43:26 PM
Chad & Yasbean ... I know you guys must have researched it pretty well to both end up with the Vibiemme ... what tipped the scales to that machine over all other double boilers?

 ???
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on March 13, 2010, 10:31:25 AM
Well, I don't know about Chad, but I started on the very superficial point of good looks.  Then, I liked the very large boilers, with 1.4 liters for both steam and coffee -- fast recovery.  The steam boiler uses a commercial Sirai pressurestat (good to reduce need to descale), and the coffee boiler is PIDed.  The innards are all high quality commercial stuff, well designed.  The icing is the three-way switch, with which you can turn on only the electronics and pump, or any or both boilers.  I turn the coffee boiler on early to start the grouphead warming, then turn on the steam boiler shortly before using (it reaches 1.5 bar in a few minutes).  After I'm, done, I will turn off the steam boiler if I will want espresso later, or turn off the coffee boiler if the wife will want hot water for tea, or I will just turn the whole off until next time.

I have heard from those with more experience in the E61 world than I that the "true" E61 is bigger than the others on the market, and is 2 lbs heavier.  I just know that this baby is pretty.  Also, check out the exhaust extension on the grouphead to avoid splatter when turning off the pump and evacuating the grouphead.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 13, 2010, 11:26:51 AM
Well, I don't know about Chad, but I started on the very superficial point of good looks.  Then, I liked the very large boilers, with 1.4 liters for both steam and coffee -- fast recovery.  The steam boiler uses a commercial Sirai pressurestat (good to reduce need to descale), and the coffee boiler is PIDed.  The innards are all high quality commercial stuff, well designed.  The icing is the three-way switch, with which you can turn on only the electronics and pump, or any or both boilers.  I turn the coffee boiler on early to start the grouphead warming, then turn on the steam boiler shortly before using (it reaches 1.5 bar in a few minutes).  After I'm, done, I will turn off the steam boiler if I will want espresso later, or turn off the coffee boiler if the wife will want hot water for tea, or I will just turn the whole off until next time.

I have heard from those with more experience in the E61 world than I that the "true" E61 is bigger than the others on the market, and is 2 lbs heavier.  I just know that this baby is pretty.  Also, check out the exhaust extension on the grouphead to avoid splatter when turning off the pump and evacuating the grouphead.

I can't attest to the weight of a lever E61, but my Bunn ES-1A (Faema E61-type group) is 13# with everything removed. It's a heavy weight honker. The Spanish originated the under-the-group 3-way valve and they also originated the extensions that help direct the exhausted fluids into the drip tray.

I don't understand the need for the boilers to be the same size? The steam boiler can be a lot smaller than the brew boiler without sacrificing steam capacity. It's probably an inventory/manufacturing thing - where they can save money by having a one-size-fits-all boiler?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on March 13, 2010, 11:43:31 AM
Tex

Interesting you say that.  I was at Synesso on Thursday and had a nice chat about their design. 

The steam boiler is the stage 1 boiler and for theirs it's at least twice the size of the group boiler.  They feed the water from the steam boiler @~195 deg. into the group boiler (or if a 2 group 2 boilers, or if three group three boilers) and then the group boiler only has to raise the temp 5 - 10 deg.  Which for changing the temp of the shot either up or down is quick and recovery is also quick because it's a small volume of water.   They also use separate group boilers so you can change the temp of each independently.

And yes their steam boilers run at a lower temp than the group boilers... all of them are PID controlled.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 13, 2010, 12:23:50 PM
Tex

Interesting you say that.  I was at Synesso on Thursday and had a nice chat about their design. 

The steam boiler is the stage 1 boiler and for theirs it's at least twice the size of the group boiler.  They feed the water from the steam boiler @~195 deg. into the group boiler (or if a 2 group 2 boilers, or if three group three boilers) and then the group boiler only has to raise the temp 5 - 10 deg.  Which for changing the temp of the shot either up or down is quick and recovery is also quick because it's a small volume of water.   They also use separate group boilers so you can change the temp of each independently.

And yes their steam boilers run at a lower temp than the group boilers... all of them are PID controlled.


 ??? ??? ???

I've never seen a Synesso, so I can't/won't comment on their design, but the  next time you're there, see if they have one they can send me to play with, OK.

By it's definition a steam boiler would have to operate at 212°F or higher to generate steam.  I can't remember the numbers, but I seem to recall from some class or another that a given amount of water @212°F will expand to make x times the volume of steam - so the steam boiler doesn't need to be as large as the brew boiler - which needs to be very temp stable @196° - 203° to produce consistent quality shots.

Like I said - I don't know how this applies to Synesso's setup; but I'd be willing to bet that for the money they get for their machines they're doing something pretty fancy?


Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: sontondaman on March 15, 2010, 08:51:30 AM
Hey Larry,
Do you mean that the water run through the steam boiler via a heat-exchanger? The steam boiler temperature would be way above 200F right?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on March 15, 2010, 08:56:18 AM
I'm not exactly sure but don't remember seeing a heat exchanger.  But they clearly use the steam boiler to pre-heat the group boilers.  I don't know what temp the hot water is in the steam boiler.. on my brasilia the hot water spout is plumbed off the bottom of the boiler..  I think that's where they pull the pre-heated water, but don't know for sure if it's direct or HX.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on March 15, 2010, 09:00:48 AM
Well, I don't know about Chad, but I started on the very superficial point of good looks.  Then, I liked the very large boilers, with 1.4 liters for both steam and coffee -- fast recovery.  The steam boiler uses a commercial Sirai pressurestat (good to reduce need to descale), and the coffee boiler is PIDed.  The innards are all high quality commercial stuff, well designed.  The icing is the three-way switch, with which you can turn on only the electronics and pump, or any or both boilers.  I turn the coffee boiler on early to start the grouphead warming, then turn on the steam boiler shortly before using (it reaches 1.5 bar in a few minutes).  After I'm, done, I will turn off the steam boiler if I will want espresso later, or turn off the coffee boiler if the wife will want hot water for tea, or I will just turn the whole off until next time.

I have heard from those with more experience in the E61 world than I that the "true" E61 is bigger than the others on the market, and is 2 lbs heavier.  I just know that this baby is pretty.  Also, check out the exhaust extension on the grouphead to avoid splatter when turning off the pump and evacuating the grouphead.

YasBean ... thank you for your explanation.  Now I'm almost sorry I asked.  Like you I was impressed by the quality that goes into the Vibiemme double boiler.  

Oh well ... I don't have one ... for now!

 >:D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on March 15, 2010, 09:19:05 AM
Oh well ... I don't have one ... for now!

 >:D
That is just what I said not too long ago! ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: nwmarco on March 29, 2010, 04:26:29 PM
There sure is some nice equipment in this forum.

I did the PID installation myself on my Rancilio.

Cheers,
Marco in Seattle
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on June 14, 2010, 06:23:18 PM
(http://home.earthlink.net/~texas_coffee/images/The%20Good%20The%20Bad%20and%20The%20Beautiful%20%28Medium%29.jpg)

Left to right: Saeco Titan, Rancilio MD50, Astoria/Mazzer Super Jolly, Bunn ES-1A HX

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: dmankin on June 14, 2010, 06:40:29 PM
Beautiful, Robert!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on June 14, 2010, 07:07:44 PM
Beautiful, Robert!

Every year it seems I have to decide which goody to keep. This time it's between the MD50 & Super Jolly. I like the looks of the MD50 - square and business like, while Mrs T3 likes the SJ, says it looks more organic (whatever the heck that means?).

They both work well and the results of my previous testing indicates these are as near to identical as can be. In the MD50's favor, with the cut down bean hopper, which holds ~1.5 lbs, the grinder fits under the top cabinets. If I cut the SJ hopper down to fit under the cabinets, the hopper might hold 1/2 cup of beans!

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on June 14, 2010, 07:52:23 PM
Beautiful, Robert!

Every year it seems I have to decide which goody to keep. This time it's between the MD50 & Super Jolly. I like the looks of the MD50 - square and business like, while Mrs T3 likes the SJ, says it looks more organic (whatever the heck that means?).

They both work well and the results of my previous testing indicates these are as near to identical as can be. In the MD50's favor, with the cut down bean hopper, which holds ~1.5 lbs, the grinder fits under the top cabinets. If I cut the SJ hopper down to fit under the cabinets, the hopper might hold 1/2 cup of beans!



Trade them both in on a Rocky.   :angel:
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on June 14, 2010, 08:47:07 PM
Beautiful, Robert!

Every year it seems I have to decide which goody to keep. This time it's between the MD50 & Super Jolly. I like the looks of the MD50 - square and business like, while Mrs T3 likes the SJ, says it looks more organic (whatever the heck that means?).

They both work well and the results of my previous testing indicates these are as near to identical as can be. In the MD50's favor, with the cut down bean hopper, which holds ~1.5 lbs, the grinder fits under the top cabinets. If I cut the SJ hopper down to fit under the cabinets, the hopper might hold 1/2 cup of beans!



Trade them both in on a Rocky.   :angel:

I don't think so, but I do have a line on a new bathing suit that's not as conservative as my current one.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on June 15, 2010, 03:32:00 AM
Beautiful, Robert!

Every year it seems I have to decide which goody to keep. This time it's between the MD50 & Super Jolly. I like the looks of the MD50 - square and business like, while Mrs T3 likes the SJ, says it looks more organic (whatever the heck that means?).

They both work well and the results of my previous testing indicates these are as near to identical as can be. In the MD50's favor, with the cut down bean hopper, which holds ~1.5 lbs, the grinder fits under the top cabinets. If I cut the SJ hopper down to fit under the cabinets, the hopper might hold 1/2 cup of beans!



Trade them both in on a Rocky.   :angel:

I don't think so, but I do have a line on a new bathing suit that's not as conservative as my current one.

I didn't realize they had a nudist colony near you.

 :o
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on June 16, 2010, 10:16:20 AM
Guess this thread is as good as any.

Have to ship the Silvia.  How do I empty the boiler.  Running it dry doesn't even sound like the brightest thing I could do.  But, where is a plug or place to empty it?

Thx, B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on June 16, 2010, 10:45:54 AM
Guess this thread is as good as any.

Have to ship the Silvia.  How do I empty the boiler.  Running it dry doesn't even sound like the brightest thing I could do.  But, where is a plug or place to empty it?

Thx, B|Java

Try this... (http://www.wholelattelove.com/policies.cfm#boiler)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on June 16, 2010, 10:51:35 AM
Thanks.  I must have not been using good keywords in my search because I came nowhere near close to a good return. 

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on June 16, 2010, 10:54:32 AM
Thanks.  I must have not been using good keywords in my search because I came nowhere near close to a good return. 

B|Java

That is certainly something that all of run into at one point or another.

 ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on June 16, 2010, 11:05:22 AM
Guess this thread is as good as any.

Have to ship the Silvia.  How do I empty the boiler.  Running it dry doesn't even sound like the brightest thing I could do.  But, where is a plug or place to empty it?

Thx, B|Java

Nope, and definitely don't try steaming it out or you might blow the element. I'd disconnect the steam valve connection on the boiler and tip it over into the sink.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on June 16, 2010, 11:08:42 AM
That's why we keep Tex around!!  This is a better idea!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on June 16, 2010, 11:11:50 AM
That's why we keep Tex around!!  This is a better idea!

Alias Mr. Hardware.

 ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on June 16, 2010, 11:16:19 AM
That's why we keep Tex around!!  This is a better idea!

Alias Mr. Hardware.
 ;)

Nah, Mr. Mankini or Mr. Lazy, your choice - and it's also safer than flipping plugged in machines upside down and turning them on!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on June 16, 2010, 11:23:11 AM
Quote
Nope, and definitely don't try steaming it out or you might blow the element. I'd disconnect the steam valve connection on the boiler and tip it over into the sink...

Thanks Tex.  Lots better.   I don't care what they say about your SlingShot, though I did fine the Duke just a little more compelling, pard'ner.

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on June 16, 2010, 11:24:17 AM
That's why we keep Tex around!!  This is a better idea!

Alias Mr. Hardware.
 ;)

Nah, Mr. Mankini or Mr. Lazy, your choice - and it's also safer than flipping plugged in machines upside down and turning them on!

Are you kidding ... Tex of the famous Tex mods for Gaggia Espresso machines.  You would be an inductee to the Gaggia Hall of Fame ... if there was one.

 ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on June 16, 2010, 11:25:36 AM
Quote
Nope, and definitely don't try steaming it out or you might blow the element. I'd disconnect the steam valve connection on the boiler and tip it over into the sink...

Thanks Tex.  Lots better.   I don't care what they say about your SlingShot, though I did fine the Duke just a little more compelling, pard'ner.

B|Java

Yeah, but you just can't help yourself, can you? You've just got to sneak a peek at that neon-green semi-clad body! :o
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on June 16, 2010, 11:30:00 AM
That's why we keep Tex around!!  This is a better idea!

Alias Mr. Hardware.
 ;)

Nah, Mr. Mankini or Mr. Lazy, your choice - and it's also safer than flipping plugged in machines upside down and turning them on!

Are you kidding ... Tex of the famous Tex mods for Gaggia Espresso machines.  You would be an inductee to the Gaggia Hall of Fame ... if there was one.

 ;)

In the spirit of my semi-clad avatar, it's time for almost full disclosure: All of those mods were perfected by someone else. All I can really claim credit for is creating a forum where they could all be brought together. That's enough for me! :-[

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on June 16, 2010, 12:54:52 PM
That's why we keep Tex around!!  This is a better idea!

Alias Mr. Hardware.
 ;)

Nah, Mr. Mankini or Mr. Lazy, your choice - and it's also safer than flipping plugged in machines upside down and turning them on!

Are you kidding ... Tex of the famous Tex mods for Gaggia Espresso machines.  You would be an inductee to the Gaggia Hall of Fame ... if there was one.

 ;)

In the spirit of my semi-clad avatar, it's time for almost full disclosure: All of those mods were perfected by someone else. All I can really claim credit for is creating a forum where they could all be brought together. That's enough for me! :-[

You still qualify for membership as MergerMan!

 ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on August 22, 2010, 03:05:36 PM
I need to extend credit to our man on the West Coast.  Mz Silvia, PID'd by Milo.  Thanks budd.

Green cups by JJRoaster; blue cup by a Michigan potter.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on August 22, 2010, 03:17:20 PM
So B|PIDSylvia ... how are the shots with new life?

 ???
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on August 22, 2010, 03:39:50 PM
So B|PIDSylvia ... how are the shots with new life?

 ???

Next weekend.  Just setting up.

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Ringo on August 22, 2010, 04:06:26 PM
Goatesk? ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on August 22, 2010, 05:58:47 PM
So B|PIDSylvia ... how are the shots with new life?

 ???

Next weekend.  Just setting up.

B|Java

Look forward to the B|Evaluation.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Ray T on August 22, 2010, 06:17:56 PM
Sweet set up, is that a thor tamper?? Les does great work.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on August 22, 2010, 06:41:32 PM
Sweet set up, is that a thor tamper?? Les does great work.

Yeppir, with olive wood from Israel.  Les has moved to Idaho and has slowed down on custom work.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Pyment on August 23, 2010, 09:59:33 AM
Someone needs to do an apprenticeship with him.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on September 04, 2010, 09:24:39 AM
Someone needs to do an apprenticeship with him.

Thanks Milo.  Kind of you <hoot>.

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on September 04, 2010, 09:37:35 AM

Look forward to the B|Evaluation.

 :)

Fuji'ed PID by Milo.  Nice job, budd.

All week, I have just been fooling with temp measurements and learning how to set the PID.  Quite easy once you catch the knack of it.

I have settled with 112.5C.  Most Fuji'ed posters suggest that they end up at 108C.  The PID thermocouple <?> gets mounted on the external base of the boiler on the Silvia.  It is fascinating to watch the chip 'search' and find the setting you have established as it goes beyond the set temp and then comes back at it.  Then, it will hold your boiler within .1C degree.  Boiler light flashes and instanteously (milli-second heat surge) you are back at 112.5 from 112.4.  

Milo, always a gent, even sent along a pound of Tsunami Espresso Blend.  Great blend.  Nice chocolates, with an edge.  Did he slip in an EAfrican on this one? What I like about it as a capp drinker (no shots here) is that it stands abreast of the milk; not above it, nor below it.  I don't like overly 'punchy' capps nor do I like it when the coffee drifts to the background.  This blend is just right.

I don't have the equipment to measure the temps at the head as precisely as some folks do.  I will work the machine over, going up a degree; down a degree.  We will get it dialed in.  Been practicing my 30-lb tamp using the shipping scale.  Duh.  Never had thought of that before.  Estimate that my earlier tamps were 22-25 lbs.

Thanks again, Larry.  I no longer need to just hope. We are once again weekend latte/capp drinkers.

B|Grateful (thanks Garrison)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on September 11, 2010, 10:03:51 AM
Been playing with PID'd temps on the LeftCoastPIDdSilvia.  This morning's pulls were at 110.5 (boiler, external base mounting).  Shots are getting smoother.  Zero'ing in on the right temp.

Thx Milo!

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on September 11, 2010, 10:10:10 AM
Thank you for the update B|Grateful.

Glad to hear you are enjoying espresso and cappuccino shots one again.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on October 08, 2010, 06:16:05 PM
The first photo is Jeffo's when Schotzie first arrived.  Now there's a new grinder in town, it seemed good to post new pics.  But I may have to get Jeffo back over with his camera again.

(http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PP86WbYAl1U/TAGfpQoHjbI/AAAAAAAAALA/FH5grvfHCR8/s640/_MG_3821.JPG)

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on October 08, 2010, 07:08:18 PM
She sure is a beaut'

I'm looking forward to the day I get a shot from nurse Schotzie!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on October 08, 2010, 07:23:34 PM

I'm looking forward to the day I get a shot from nurse Schotzie!

Oh the lines being repressed ...

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on October 08, 2010, 07:30:03 PM

I'm looking forward to the day I get a shot from nurse Schotzie!

Oh the lines being repressed ...

B|Java

Intentionally?  Or is old-timer's disease setting in?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: sontondaman on October 16, 2010, 11:07:59 PM
Here is a machine in my collection. I finish restoring it several months ago.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on October 17, 2010, 04:47:22 AM
Here is a machine in my collection. I finish restoring it several months ago.


Absolutely smashing.  Nice restoration.

BoldJava
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on October 17, 2010, 05:12:57 AM
Here is a machine in my collection. I finish restoring it several months ago.


Well done indeed!

 :icon_thumleft:
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on December 07, 2010, 10:46:12 AM
It's coming together; just needs a switch and rewiring.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: highstrings on December 07, 2010, 09:00:34 PM
Tex -
Sure is looking nice!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on December 07, 2010, 09:15:44 PM
Tex -
Sure is looking nice!

I've an alcove in one wall that Mrs T has already picked out for this & my LP Pro. She even bought the poster shown to go in the alcove. Plus she's talking to the local glass shop, trying to come up with some way to display my small collection of vac pots, moka pots, and Illy cups. Who knew the woman had such good taste? ;D

I've also got the Brasilia Belle Epoque 2-group underway - Mrs T spent a bunch of money for a cute little table for it to sit on, to go into the living room. What I need now is Larry's roaster to put the finishing touch on her decorating scheme! ;)

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: danetrainer on December 24, 2010, 10:40:01 AM
Getting the most of my 2ft x 3ft coffee bar in the kitchen...plumbed in Brewtus III Rotary, Doserless modded M7k 68mm conical, Mahlkonig Tanzania, &
Clever dripper. The latte art is compliments of :-\ my recent visit to Barista, Portland....hopefully in another 10-20 years mine will be half as good!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: thejavaman on December 26, 2010, 01:05:05 PM
Getting the most of my 2ft x 3ft coffee bar in the kitchen...plumbed in Brewtus III Rotary, Doserless modded M7k 68mm conical, Mahlkonig Tanzania, & Clever dripper.

It looks like you get about as much space as what my wife allows me in the kitchen.  What a nice set-up though.  I'm seriously drooling and developing a case of "upgraditis" as I type this!   ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: danetrainer on December 26, 2010, 01:56:29 PM
Upgradeitus, ::) yes I know that all too well...I've had my home espresso equipment since around 1995, starting off with the usual Krups model and a Braun burr grinder! I've measured the space and I could fit a GS3 in there, but realistically not going to have any improvement in the end product, just more steaming ability if that were important to me (its not). I have three other espresso grinders under the counter...the big conical is really awesome, because, it has such a wide sweet spot. The Tanz actually is on loan & belongs to the friend that co-buys greens with me...we do all the roasting here and use it for cupping...but it certainly is overkill with a single serve dripper! I love it when I make a cold brew as it grinds through a whole pound in about 15 seconds!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on December 26, 2010, 02:09:32 PM
Getting the most of my 2ft x 3ft coffee bar in the kitchen...plumbed in Brewtus III Rotary, Doserless modded M7k 68mm conical, Mahlkonig Tanzania...

That Mahlkonig Tanz caught my eye.  It is designed a great deal like the Nuova Simonelli MCD65, with a dial to adjust the grind and a snout.  Do you know if that dial lowers/raises the lower burr up towards the fixed upper plate as does the NS?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: danetrainer on December 27, 2010, 09:09:44 AM
Getting the most of my 2ft x 3ft coffee bar in the kitchen...plumbed in Brewtus III Rotary, Doserless modded M7k 68mm conical, Mahlkonig Tanzania...

That Mahlkonig Tanz caught my eye.  It is designed a great deal like the Nuova Simonelli MCD65, with a dial to adjust the grind and a snout.  Do you know if that dial lowers/raises the lower burr up towards the fixed upper plate as does the NS?

I will look when I get home tonight and see, easy to take the top cover off and see how things move. The burrs are held in magnetically, not screwed down like the Bunns or 804.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: danetrainer on December 28, 2010, 10:02:50 AM
Indeed the grind adjustment moves the lower burr up/down, also the burrs measure 80mm.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Pyment on December 29, 2010, 05:57:32 AM
Getting the most of my 2ft x 3ft coffee bar in the kitchen...plumbed in Brewtus III Rotary, Doserless modded M7k 68mm conical, Mahlkonig Tanzania...

That Mahlkonig Tanz caught my eye.  It is designed a great deal like the Nuova Simonelli MCD65, with a dial to adjust the grind and a snout.  Do you know if that dial lowers/raises the lower burr up towards the fixed upper plate as does the NS?

How's the PID Silvia doing? (BTW that may just count as an upgrade to your espresso machine).
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on December 29, 2010, 06:09:38 AM

How's the PID Silvia doing? (BTW that may just count as an upgrade to your espresso machine).


Fine until the olive wood handle split on the portafilter.  It went on 'injured reserve' list about the same time Favre did.  The portafilter is at the shop getting a remake and hopefully will be up and running when Milo is here in Feb and gets to see the end product of his work in action.

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on December 29, 2010, 07:43:27 AM

How's the PID Silvia doing? (BTW that may just count as an upgrade to your espresso machine).


Fine until the olive wood handle split on the portafilter.  It went on 'injured reserve' list about the same time Favre did.  The portafilter is at the shop getting a remake and hopefully will be up and running when Milo is here in Feb and gets to see the end product of his work in action.

B|Java

I know it would not be the Olive wood gem you are used to but have you considered a backup portafilter in cases like this where one is at the hospital getting a make over?

 ???
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on December 29, 2010, 08:54:24 AM

How's the PID Silvia doing? (BTW that may just count as an upgrade to your espresso machine).


Fine until the olive wood handle split on the portafilter.  It went on 'injured reserve' list about the same time Favre did.  The portafilter is at the shop getting a remake and hopefully will be up and running when Milo is here in Feb and gets to see the end product of his work in action.

B|Java

I know it would not be the Olive wood gem you are used to but have you considered a backup portafilter in cases like this where one is at the hospital getting a make over?

 ???

+1

And some folks like having a bottomless & a regular PF.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on December 29, 2010, 03:39:46 PM
...
I know it would not be the Olive wood gem you are used to but have you considered a backup portafilter in cases like this where one is at the hospital getting a make over?


No need for a back-up on the espresso.  It is a weekend treat, not the daily go-to caffeine delivery system.  Now, I have backup systems in place for vacpots and pourovers but the olive wood portafilter is sufficient.

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: GC7 on December 29, 2010, 04:54:44 PM
Photos of the newest olive wood handles are posted today and they look beautiful.

I hope one of them is yours. If so it won't be long before you're up and running again.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on December 29, 2010, 05:35:06 PM
Photos of the newest olive wood handles are posted today and they look beautiful.

I hope one of them is yours. If so it won't be long before you're up and running again.

Nah, not mine.  I am patient because I know what how sweet it will be.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mattquist on January 11, 2011, 03:57:19 PM
Here's my new toy....
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on January 11, 2011, 05:19:07 PM
Here's my new toy....


 ;D ;D

What the hell is that (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RV7Qz640OeM#noexternalembed)

Sure is sexy.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mattquist on January 11, 2011, 06:26:13 PM
It's a Nuova Simonelli Musica Lux.  The white part of the frame is lit by LED's.   HX Pourover Machine, 2Liter Boiler (same as the Oscar) with the group from The Premier/Appia line. Only had it 1 day, but so far I'm happy.  Steams better than my Commercial 2-head Expobar.  Nice machine.  bit overpriced, but I picked it up 1/2 off through Chris' Coffee as a demo.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on January 11, 2011, 06:31:29 PM
Great looking machine!

Does it work as well as it looks great?

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on January 12, 2011, 10:20:25 AM
A very impressive looking machine! The controls remind me of the Victoria Arduino Adonis.

I can see why this would be more than double the price of an Oscar. It looks like they took the Oscar, made it into an automatic machine, and added much nicer body work. I especially like that they added a hot water dispenser - that was one of the reasons I got rid of my Oscar; that and the steam wand tip that could empty the milk out of a 32 ounce jug (I wonder if they're still using the 4-hole tip?).

That'll cure you of the ungrade bug Matt, at least for the foreseeable future!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mattquist on January 12, 2011, 10:29:36 AM
Thanks for all the positive comments!   I'm starting to get it dialed in.  Went through 3/4 pound of beans last night, and ended up not being able to fall asleep until about 3 from all of the caffeine, but I'm finally starting to get the bitterness worked out of the shots. 
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on January 12, 2011, 10:32:51 AM
Thanks for all the positive comments!   I'm starting to get it dialed in.  Went through 3/4 pound of beans last night, and ended up not being able to fall asleep until about 3 from all of the caffeine, but I'm finally starting to get the bitterness worked out of the shots.  

Send it to me and I'll dial it in for you; in 4 - 5 years!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mattquist on January 12, 2011, 10:39:16 AM
Not a chance.   My understanding is that it's got the boiler and internal's from the Oscar w/ the addition of the vacuum breaker so that you don't have to open the steam wand at start-up, and that the group head is from the Appia group.  Plus infusion.  The look reminds me of Modernistic Italian art-deco meets Vegas.... If that makes sense.  I'm gonna have to find a smaller tip for the steam wand though.  I"m steaming a 12 oz. pitcher in less than 20 seconds.  I'm not skilled enough for that much steam power...Yet!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on January 12, 2011, 11:17:59 AM
Went through 3/4 pound of beans last night, and ended up not being able to fall asleep until about 3 from all of the caffeine, but I'm finally starting to get the bitterness worked out of the shots. 

Classic!

Love it.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on January 12, 2011, 11:19:36 AM
Not a chance.   My understanding is that it's got the boiler and internal's from the Oscar w/ the addition of the vacuum breaker so that you don't have to open the steam wand at start-up, and that the group head is from the Appia group.  Plus infusion.  The look reminds me of Modernistic Italian art-deco meets Vegas.... If that makes sense.  I'm gonna have to find a smaller tip for the steam wand though.  I"m steaming a 12 oz. pitcher in less than 20 seconds.  I'm not skilled enough for that much steam power...Yet!

Those 4-hole wand tips are lethal to use. For my Oscar, I ended up sticking toothpicks into 2 of the four holes just to prevent being painted with scalding hot milk.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on January 12, 2011, 01:19:16 PM
Not a chance.   My understanding is that it's got the boiler and internal's from the Oscar w/ the addition of the vacuum breaker so that you don't have to open the steam wand at start-up, and that the group head is from the Appia group.  Plus infusion.  The look reminds me of Modernistic Italian art-deco meets Vegas.... If that makes sense.  I'm gonna have to find a smaller tip for the steam wand though.  I"m steaming a 12 oz. pitcher in less than 20 seconds.  I'm not skilled enough for that much steam power...Yet!

Well ... if you face a sleepless night ... at least you know it was due to a good cause.

 ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on February 01, 2011, 04:29:22 PM
Well I just sold my Brasilia.  This will force me to get the next machine in line up to snuff...

B|Silvia's big brother

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on February 01, 2011, 04:56:30 PM
Mrs. Milo won't like how the house lights dim every time the steam boiler cycles.   :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on February 01, 2011, 06:20:26 PM
Mrs. Milo won't like how the house lights dim every time the steam boiler cycles.   :)

She's happy... one coffee toy gone.  The boiler on the Rancilio is smaller than the Brasilia.

I hooked up the Rancilio and everything works.  Looks like it only needs a steam wand and new group gaskets... descale too of course, but I don't think I need to dis-assemble this one.  Hoping to move this one out too in the next month or so.

Got my eye on one of these (http://prima-coffee.com/content/la-marzocco-gs3-%E2%80%9Clite%E2%80%9D-professional-home-espresso-machine-mechanical-paddle).  I figure a few more liquidation items and I'll have enough in the coffee toy fund.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on February 01, 2011, 06:30:52 PM
Got my eye on one of these ([url]http://prima-coffee.com/content/la-marzocco-gs3-%E2%80%9Clite%E2%80%9D-professional-home-espresso-machine-mechanical-paddle[/url]).  I figure a few more liquidation items and I'll have enough in the coffee toy fund.


Very nice!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on February 01, 2011, 07:46:26 PM
Got my eye on one of these ([url]http://prima-coffee.com/content/la-marzocco-gs3-%E2%80%9Clite%E2%80%9D-professional-home-espresso-machine-mechanical-paddle[/url]).  I figure a few more liquidation items and I'll have enough in the coffee toy fund.


Only 7 more drowned cell phones and you should be there.   ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: vberch on April 04, 2011, 11:58:11 AM
Here is my setup:

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on April 04, 2011, 01:42:32 PM
Naaaahice.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: John F on April 04, 2011, 02:35:23 PM
Here is my setup:



I suppose it's acceptable..  :P
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on April 04, 2011, 02:38:11 PM
Here is my setup:

Holy Lever-land.  A double!  Pavoni and an Elektra in Lake Cheddar!  Let's cup!

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: vberch on April 04, 2011, 02:57:34 PM
Any time, Dave!

Here is my setup:

Holy Lever-land.  A double!  Pavoni and an Elektra in Lake Cheddar!  Let's cup!

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Stubbie on April 05, 2011, 06:33:09 AM
Judging by the size of the Glass Cory Rod to the right of the machines, you also have the largest Vacpot on the planet!

Nice kit...way to make us jealous!

-Stubbie
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on April 05, 2011, 08:04:05 AM
Here is my setup:

A good beginning. ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: vberch on April 05, 2011, 10:33:50 AM
LOL! It is a water reservoir for the machine.

Judging by the size of the Glass Cory Rod to the right of the machines, you also have the largest Vacpot on the planet!

Nice kit...way to make us jealous!

-Stubbie
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on April 05, 2011, 10:44:31 AM
LOL! It is a water reservoir for the machine.

Judging by the size of the Glass Cory Rod to the right of the machines, you also have the largest Vacpot on the planet!

Nice kit...way to make us jealous!

-Stubbie

I guessed that!  My question is, where did you get that beautiful piece of glass?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: vberch on April 05, 2011, 12:21:19 PM
I think my wife bought it at either TJMax or Marshals.

LOL! It is a water reservoir for the machine.

Judging by the size of the Glass Cory Rod to the right of the machines, you also have the largest Vacpot on the planet!

Nice kit...way to make us jealous!

-Stubbie

I guessed that!  My question is, where did you get that beautiful piece of glass?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on April 13, 2011, 03:36:04 PM
I just ordered this puppy from Home Depot. It has no top, so I'll put a flat marble or soapstone top on it, and this will be in my coffee nook. Look into their bathroom vanities if you need a free-standing counter.

edited: The big box just arrived. I think this is going to look good under my coffee gear! Now I need to hook the filtration system up to the FloJet and look for some water bottles
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on May 19, 2011, 11:44:01 AM
I just ordered this puppy from Home Depot. It has no top, so I'll put a flat marble or soapstone top on it, and this will be in my coffee nook. Look into their bathroom vanities if you need a free-standing counter.

edited: The big box just arrived. I think this is going to look good under my coffee gear! Now I need to hook the filtration system up to the FloJet and look for some water bottles

It's getting there - all I need is to finish reassembling my rebuilt Bunn ES-1A, then I can turn it over to Mrs T to decorate.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on May 20, 2011, 06:02:04 PM
Nicely done Robert!

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grinderz on May 20, 2011, 08:43:13 PM
Ain'tcha gonna cut a hole in there to mount a knock box?  >:D

Seriously, that's quite a nice coffee cubby you've got there, Tex.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on August 22, 2011, 03:53:39 PM
Any progress on the espresso nook there, Robert?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on August 22, 2011, 04:16:42 PM
Any progress on the espresso nook there, Robert?

Just have to clear the junk off and move the hardware there. At my normal pace I should have pictures by Thanksgiving! ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on August 23, 2011, 05:42:13 AM
Any progress on the espresso nook there, Robert?

Just have to clear the junk off and move the hardware there. At my normal pace I should have pictures by Thanksgiving! ;D

 :o
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on August 23, 2011, 06:48:31 AM
Any progress on the espresso nook there, Robert?

Just have to clear the junk off and move the hardware there. At my normal pace I should have pictures by Thanksgiving! ;D

 :o

Right now the rebuilt one is in the kitchen with my other one. The countertop in my coffee nook somehow became temporary storage for my tools and test equipment, so I have to put everything away before I set it up as a coffee nook.

Me a procrastinator? How can anyone say that about me? Oops, I'm at the computer when I'm supposed to be cleaning the grinder today!

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on August 23, 2011, 07:43:13 AM
Any progress on the espresso nook there, Robert?

Just have to clear the junk off and move the hardware there. At my normal pace I should have pictures by Thanksgiving! ;D

 :o

Right now the rebuilt one is in the kitchen with my other one. The countertop in my coffee nook somehow became temporary storage for my tools and test equipment, so I have to put everything away before I set it up as a coffee nook.

Me a procrastinator? How can anyone say that about me? Oops, I'm at the computer when I'm supposed to be cleaning the grinder today!

I'd rather be in front of the computer than clean a grinder any day.

 :-X
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on August 23, 2011, 08:18:39 AM
Any progress on the espresso nook there, Robert?

Just have to clear the junk off and move the hardware there. At my normal pace I should have pictures by Thanksgiving! ;D

 :o

Right now the rebuilt one is in the kitchen with my other one. The countertop in my coffee nook somehow became temporary storage for my tools and test equipment, so I have to put everything away before I set it up as a coffee nook.

Me a procrastinator? How can anyone say that about me? Oops, I'm at the computer when I'm supposed to be cleaning the grinder today!

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on August 23, 2011, 12:41:00 PM
Some of you have seen my machine and grinder in their old location.  After my home invasion and subsequent kitchen remodel (a third of which was on the insurance company's dime, hehehe) I wanted to show off their new location.  There used to be a closet in the kitchen that was replaced with an espresso nook; I built an upper and a lower cabinet, and continued the kitchen's granite for the nook.  When Jeff has time to shoot the rest of the kitchen, I'd like to show that off too.  I'm still amazed overall and often feel like I'm stepping into someone else' kitchen.  The Lord has done great things for us, whereof we are glad. Ps126:3.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on August 23, 2011, 02:13:44 PM
Peter

Nice upgrade!!  Where is the French Press?  Does it has it's own meuble?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on August 23, 2011, 02:30:55 PM
Peter

Nice upgrade!!

+1

It looks like it is in a rich person's house.

 ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on August 23, 2011, 04:05:16 PM
Peter

Nice upgrade!!

+1

It looks like it is in a rich person's house.

 ;D

As my namesake once said, "Silver and gold have I none, but such as I have I give unto you..."

Peter

Nice upgrade!!  Where is the French Press?  Does it has it's own meuble?

No meubles for the press pot, Sir Lawrence.  It too stays out for quick accessibility.

Meuble!  They are out to get you Jeffo.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on August 23, 2011, 04:34:25 PM
Is that a .5oz espresso squirt right next to the light switch?

;-)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Dante on August 23, 2011, 06:41:48 PM
Nice set up there Don Pedro! Well done!  ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on August 23, 2011, 07:22:38 PM
Is that a .5oz espresso squirt right next to the light switch?

;-)

A souvenir of my bottomless PF.   ;D

Nice set up there Don Pedro! Well done!  ;)

Don Dante digs the K10, yes?   ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on August 23, 2011, 09:24:45 PM
Some of you have seen my machine and grinder in their old location.  After my home invasion and subsequent kitchen remodel (a third of which was on the insurance company's dime, hehehe) I wanted to show off their new location.  There used to be a closet in the kitchen that was replaced with an espresso nook; I built an upper and a lower cabinet, and continued the kitchen's granite for the nook.  When Jeff has time to shoot the rest of the kitchen, I'd like to show that off too.  I'm still amazed overall and often feel like I'm stepping into someone else' kitchen.  The Lord has done great things for us, whereof we are glad. Ps126:3.

Decent looking setup Peter. If I ever get north of the Mason-Dixon again I'll let you build me a drink.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: headchange4u on August 24, 2011, 06:19:17 AM
That's nice peter. I hope to one day have a coffee nook. My wife might say that half our counter space is a coffee nook, but it's just not the same.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on August 24, 2011, 08:59:45 AM
Some of you have seen my machine and grinder in their old location.  After my home invasion and subsequent kitchen remodel (a third of which was on the insurance company's dime, hehehe) I wanted to show off their new location.  There used to be a closet in the kitchen that was replaced with an espresso nook; I built an upper and a lower cabinet, and continued the kitchen's granite for the nook.  When Jeff has time to shoot the rest of the kitchen, I'd like to show that off too.  I'm still amazed overall and often feel like I'm stepping into someone else' kitchen.  The Lord has done great things for us, whereof we are glad. Ps126:3.

Decent looking setup Peter. If I ever get north of the Mason-Dixon again I'll let you build me a drink.

I'd like that Robert.  A looooooooong, long time ago there was a thread about the top three members you'd like to meet.  You would be on my short list.  We could go find that brass billy goat and double team him.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on August 24, 2011, 09:31:58 AM
Some of you have seen my machine and grinder in their old location.  After my home invasion and subsequent kitchen remodel (a third of which was on the insurance company's dime, hehehe) I wanted to show off their new location.  There used to be a closet in the kitchen that was replaced with an espresso nook; I built an upper and a lower cabinet, and continued the kitchen's granite for the nook.  When Jeff has time to shoot the rest of the kitchen, I'd like to show that off too.  I'm still amazed overall and often feel like I'm stepping into someone else' kitchen.  The Lord has done great things for us, whereof we are glad. Ps126:3.

Decent looking setup Peter. If I ever get north of the Mason-Dixon again I'll let you build me a drink.

I'd like that Robert.  A looooooooong, long time ago there was a thread about the top three members you'd like to meet.  You would be on my short list.  We could go find that brass billy goat and double team him.

 ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grinderz on August 24, 2011, 10:33:58 AM
Feel the love!  ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on August 24, 2011, 11:03:07 AM
Feel the love!  ;D


(http://failfun.com/wp-content/uploads/imagespick_20on_20sombody_small.jpg)

Which is Peter and which is me?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: John F on August 24, 2011, 11:11:37 AM
  A looooooooong, long time ago there was a thread about the top three members you'd like to meet. 

I'd like to meet all the club members except two boneheads that are long gone.

In fact anybody in the Utah Zion and Moab areas/Las Vegas/southern Colorado Durango area that wants me to swing by and guzzle up some of your coffee in a few weeks let me know.  ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on August 24, 2011, 11:13:05 AM
Feel the love!  ;D


([url]http://failfun.com/wp-content/uploads/imagespick_20on_20sombody_small.jpg[/url])

Which is Peter and which is me?


I'd be on the right, because you have more hair than me.  Plus, I'm not the one with the heart made of stone.   ;D   ;D   ;D   ;D


Actually, the reason I made that post above about meeting another member, and having Tex on my short list is because most of the time, meeting someone in person and having a meal/drinks together is all it takes.  Milo said Tex is actually a great guy, and I'm sure he was right.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: John F on August 24, 2011, 11:29:10 AM
  Milo said Tex is actually a great guy, and I'm sure he was right.

He sent me a Goode Company pie....he is an awesome guy!  8)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on August 24, 2011, 11:46:04 AM
Feel the love!  ;D



Which is Peter and which is me?

I'd be on the right, because you have more hair than me.  Plus, I'm not the one with the heart made of stone.   ;D   ;D   ;D   ;D


Actually, the reason I made that post above about meeting another member, and having Tex on my short list is because most of the time, meeting someone in person and having a meal/drinks together is all it takes.  Milo said Tex is actually a great guy, and I'm sure he was right.

Who you gonna believe, me or Milo? ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on August 24, 2011, 05:47:16 PM
  A looooooooong, long time ago there was a thread about the top three members you'd like to meet. 

I'd like to meet all the club members except two boneheads that are long gone.

In fact anybody in the Utah Zion and Moab areas/Las Vegas/southern Colorado Durango area that wants me to swing by and guzzle up some of your coffee in a few weeks let me know.  ;D

You heading to Zion? Awesome place... except for the retail coffee.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: John F on August 24, 2011, 06:04:54 PM
You heading to Zion? Awesome place... except for the retail coffee.

Yeah, I've seen graphic images of what happens if one drinks the iced coffee in Zion....I won't be doing that.  ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: GC7 on September 01, 2011, 02:17:39 PM
My birthday present to myself (almost a month late) arrived today.

I am very happy.  Dave is a true craftsman and artist. 

(http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/GeoffreyC/IMG_0940.jpg)

(http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/GeoffreyC/IMG_0938.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on September 01, 2011, 02:18:58 PM
My birthday present to myself (almost a month late) arrived today.

I am very happy.  Dave is a true craftsman and artist. 



Pretty wood - too bad he didn't recess the screws more and use dowels to cover them.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on September 01, 2011, 02:22:09 PM
My birthday present to myself (almost a month late) arrived today.



I saw them over at HB and wondered if they were yours.  WoodnChrome reigns.

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: GC7 on September 01, 2011, 02:37:48 PM
Dave - As you know personally and I just found out, the pictures really don't do justice to the beautiful wood.  The Amboyna burl colors and grain worked out very well.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on September 01, 2011, 05:53:43 PM
Oooooo, shiny!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on September 01, 2011, 06:00:48 PM
I didn't mean to sound so critical of the wood pieces - they're beautiful. I've been on a steady diet of exotic pain meds this week for a kidney stone and words just aren't coming out the way I meant them.

I aplogize if I was rude. :-[
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on September 01, 2011, 06:02:12 PM
Oooooo, shiny!

When you dressing up that PVL for the dance?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on September 01, 2011, 07:19:29 PM

I aplogize if I was rude. :-[
Ok, seriously, where is Tex?  This is an impostor!  Someone must have hacked his account.

Sweet lookin' machine BTW!!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: GC7 on September 01, 2011, 07:48:38 PM
I didn't mean to sound so critical of the wood pieces - they're beautiful. I've been on a steady diet of exotic pain meds this week for a kidney stone and words just aren't coming out the way I meant them.

I aplogize if I was rude. :-[

Tex

We're good.  Kidney stones hurt bad so I'm told.  I hope you are well soon and don't get hooked on those meds.

I really admire craftsman like Dave aka cannonfodder and can highly recommend dealing with him if you see anything on that HB thread that strikes your fancy.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on September 01, 2011, 08:06:37 PM

I aplogize if I was rude. :-[
Ok, seriously, where is Tex?  This is an impostor!  Someone must have hacked his account.

Sweet lookin' machine BTW!!

I think it's the meds causing the apology. ;-)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on September 01, 2011, 08:07:08 PM
Oooooo, shiny!

When you dressing up that PVL for the dance?

Must admit, that wood does look sharp.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grinderz on September 01, 2011, 08:11:44 PM
Yeah, get better quick! We need you at 100% "Texy-ness."
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on September 01, 2011, 08:15:24 PM

I aplogize if I was rude. :-[
Ok, seriously, where is Tex?  This is an impostor!  Someone must have hacked his account.

Sweet lookin' machine BTW!!

I think it's the meds causing the apology. ;-)

I think it's the Captain Morgan causing the meds to cause the apology.   ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on September 01, 2011, 08:20:05 PM

I aplogize if I was rude. :-[
Ok, seriously, where is Tex?  This is an impostor!  Someone must have hacked his account.

Sweet lookin' machine BTW!!

I think it's the meds causing the apology. ;-)

I think it's the Captain Morgan causing the meds to cause the apology.   ;)

Maybe Tex can send us an image of him pulling shots on his machine with one foot up in the air.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on September 01, 2011, 08:35:19 PM

I aplogize if I was rude. :-[
Ok, seriously, where is Tex?  This is an impostor!  Someone must have hacked his account.

Sweet lookin' machine BTW!!

I think it's the meds causing the apology. ;-)

I think it's the Captain Morgan causing the meds to cause the apology.   ;)

Trust me, I haven't touched a drop since the stones started hurting; believe it or not, the morphine does a better job. But I'll be back to normal tomorrow after they lithotripsy the bugger.
Title: Jake's Casa Cafe
Post by: shakin_jake on September 07, 2011, 11:04:09 AM
I haven't posted here in a while, let alone an espresso pic...while looking at what others posted I noticed a recurring theme...most espresso set ups look too clean=:-) so I thought I'd share what a working kitchen looks like, with an espresso machine in the midst
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6124064435_d450e5ae4a_b.jpg)
FWIW, grinder isn't in the photo as it is on the end of the counter (sorry, no panorama view=:-)
This is my Vetrano HX, the machine I bought from Chris Coffee late last December.  FWIW2, I'm thoroughly enjoying using this machine.  It does everything right AFAIC IMNSHO  Supply water is on the other side of the counter on the floor behind the sofa via a 5 gallon water bottle with a flow jet on top.  I'm still using an RO system up in my barn to filter my well water with a carbon calcite cartridge to add back minerals which ends up being 50 PPM as checked with test strips

You'll notice a PF with a blind disk and a Pallo cleaning brush next to the machine on the right...I scrub the diffusion screen after every pull and back flush with straight water too after each shot, unless I'm entertaining then I'll wait til I finish all of my drinks.  If anyone is wondering what the cardboard boxes with the green fruit in the background behind the Vetrano is, they're cases of papaya ripening, for our birds

Several months after owning/using this machine I called up Chris Coffee to discuss purchasing a drain kit for the drain pan.  The lady there (on the phone) that handles a lot of their espresso sales talked me out of it stating unless I could run the drain striaght down from the drain pan into and through the counter top...some of the water wouldn't drain and stay in the pan.  Made sense to me so most every night I wash the pan and cover when finishing the dinner dishes.  Keeps it all nice and clean


Best,.


Jake
Reddick Fla.
Even a blind squirrel finds a nut every once in a while...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on September 07, 2011, 11:38:40 AM
Pretty machine Jake! BTW; why'd you replace the Salvatore One-Black with the Vetrano?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on September 07, 2011, 11:46:42 AM
Nice setup, thanks for showing a realistic picture.

As anyone who has their espresso machine in the kitchen knows, it's right in the heart of everything, and competing for counter space.  I'm always getting push-back from the wife that I have too much coffee stuff on the counter (Chemex on scale, Espresso Machine, Grinder, oh, and a PID when I'm running the La Peppina) so I'm re-finishing a thrifted sideboard to take it into the dining room.  I have a feeling that moving out of the kitchen is going to be a bit of an adjustment, not having a sink nearby and having a lot less space to prep.  I'll have to pan out and take a picture of the setup in context.  It will show a box of Mangos on the counter waiting to be converted to smoothies for the family.

I also clean the screen with a Pallo coffee tool, but since I have no three-way valve on my levers, I use a wash bottle to rinse the screen and wipe with a micro-fiber cloth.

Listen to the voice of lunacy - a good espresso machine is much rarer than a good wife. :-X Now, listen to the voice of reason - a happy wife is much easier to get along with than an espresso machine. ;D

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grinderz on September 07, 2011, 02:56:34 PM
Is that one of your grand kids in your avatar, Tex?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on September 07, 2011, 03:09:08 PM
Nice machine Jake!

How does that compare to the Salvatore that you previously had?

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on September 07, 2011, 03:17:28 PM
Is that one of your grand kids in your avatar, Tex?

That's Wyatt - the one I call Tiny T!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grinderz on September 07, 2011, 03:48:13 PM
Is that one of your grand kids in your avatar, Tex?

That's Wyatt - the one I call Tiny T!
He does have that same maniacal grin.  ;D

That's a really nice looking machine you have there, Jake. Someday...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shakin_jake on September 08, 2011, 12:25:02 AM
Pretty machine Jake! BTW; why'd you replace the Salvatore One-Black with the Vetrano?



~~~Salvatore's machine was sold for only one reason...I needed some cash real fast fall 2010, by the time X-Mass came around, I was flush again so I bought the Quick Mill.  My old Salvatore machine is in good hands...one of the GCBC members bought it


Best,


Jake
Reddick Fla.
Even a blind squirrel finds a nut every once in a while...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shakin_jake on September 08, 2011, 12:29:56 AM
Nice setup, thanks for showing a realistic picture.

As anyone who has their espresso machine in the kitchen knows, it's right in the heart of everything, and competing for counter space.  I'm always getting push-back from the wife that I have too much coffee stuff on the counter (Chemex on scale, Espresso Machine, Grinder, oh, and a PID when I'm running the La Peppina) so I'm re-finishing a thrifted sideboard to take it into the dining room.  I have a feeling that moving out of the kitchen is going to be a bit of an adjustment, not having a sink nearby and having a lot less space to prep.  I'll have to pan out and take a picture of the setup in context.  It will show a box of Mangos on the counter waiting to be converted to smoothies for the family.

I also clean the screen with a Pallo coffee tool, but since I have no three-way valve on my levers, I use a wash bottle to rinse the screen and wipe with a micro-fiber cloth.



~~~Chris,  I like to keep any of my espresso machines (I've had a few) next to the sink, so I can rinse with the faucet plus I keep a compost bucket in the one side of the sink, and the spent grinds get tossed in there.  I'm sure I could get by but the thought of not having a sink nearby when I pull a shot doesn't excite me


Best,


Jake
Reddick Fla.
Even a blind squirrel finds a nut every once in a while...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shakin_jake on September 08, 2011, 01:21:07 AM
Nice machine Jake!

How does that compare to the Salvatore that you previously had?

 :)


~~~Hi mp!  You complimented me on this new machine on my espresso restoration thread (Futurmat Rimini) and I never answered you.  Yes I remember.  I've been waiting for when i start back on that machine and post some new pics, to answer you=:-)...but I'll answer your question here you wanting to know my opinion of the Salvatore One Black vs. the Quick Mill Vetrano

They're both HX machines, both use a Sirai P-Stat but I paid extra for the Sirai in the Quick Mill (about a $60 upgrade).  both use a 58 mm commercial thermosiphon group but the Quick Mill uses an E-61.  Also, the Quick Mill uses a roatary pump whereas the One Black has a vibe pump.  Although the One Black made fine espresso with the vibe pump and comm. thermosiphon group, with the E-61 and the rotary pump, the rotary pump is so quiet, you can hear when the water stops flashing coming out of the E-61 group, the vibe pump on the One Black was so noisy, it was next to impossible to percieve when to time the end of the water dance...when doing a flush

I don't know if I can say the espresso tastes better coming out of the E-61 over the commercial 58 mm group the One Black has, just as it was hard to say the if the espresso tasted better from the One Black over the PID'd Gaggia Classic the One Black replaced.  It will be easier to service the E-61 since it is right there out in the open whereas the One Balck's commercial group, to get at it to service the filter screen, it will be harder beacause of the way Slavatore fitted it to the machine...but how often do you have to fuss with the group filter screen?...not very often if you use soft water

Another advantage of the rotary pump in the Quick Mill is it is easily adjusted to affect group pressure changes.  On the One Black, Slavatore did not use any type of mechanism to adjust group pressure, so if you wanted to change group pressure (I never did) you would have to fit a rheostat to change current going to the pump.  For some, this was a show stopper on the One Black but it never bothered me.  I checked group pressure with a guage fitted to a PF and it was high.  10 + bars IIRC, but it made damn fine espresso

I have to give props to Salvatore for essentially making a custom built machine as he is a machinist and cuts his own tubing for the boiler, the boiler end caps.  it was well put together and the quality showed when you took a good look at it.  The one downside of the One Black was the fact Salvatore positioned the water reservour directly over the boiler, and the boiler laid in a horizontal position which meant the water res picked up the boiler's waste heat.  This heat reclamation meant that you could not leave the One Black plugged in (turned on) 24/7 as the water reservour would get too hot, eventually, so Slavatore stated in his instruction manual for the machine *not* to leave the boiler on 24/7.  IMO, this was no biggie, although I leave my Quick Mill on 24/7.  With the One Black, I got into the habit of turning it off when I wasn't using it.  Because the boiler was so small (1.3 litres) in the One Black, it could get up to operating temperture in 7 minutes.  No kidding, the machine can be stone cold and you can pull a shot with it 7 minutes later

Other differences between the two?...the Vetrano (Quick Mill) uses double wall steam and hot water wands, the One Black didn't.  What that means is with the insulated wands, you don't have to be concerned with getting burnt fingers touching either wand, now that's a big deal if you ever got burnt mis-handling a steam wand that isn't insulated, and I have, more than once.  IIRC the boiler on the One Black is 1.3 litres, the Vetrano is 1.7, and the Vetrano's boiler is insulated.  The One Black isn't.  That's a nice feature as the boiler will run less often as it is losing less heat.  Less heat loss means a cooler kitchen and less electricity use, but I doubt even with the high cost of electric these days, the One Black used significantly more juice. I really doubt it, plus it was kept off when not in use whereas the Vetrano is left on all of the time.  You may wonder why I leave the Vetrano on 24/7....one time having a conversation with one of the techs at Chris Coffee, he told it was better for the machine to leave it on all of the time, primarily he claimed I would avoid problems with the heater gasket leaking from expansin/contraction.  Makes sense I guess, plus it's always ready to pull a shot

Salvatore did not use a vacuum breaker on his boiler. the Vetrano has one.  What that means is when you first turn the One Black on, you have to keep the steam wand open so the pressure can evacuate until its up to steam, you don't have to do that with the Vetrano.  I think Salvatore set up his machine that way to keep it simple, so he didn't have to route a vent/water line to the drip tray like the Vetrano has.  Salvatore is a smart engineer me thinks, employing the KISS method, plus it keeps the costs down.  At the time of purchase, the One Black retailed for $1000, my Vetrano starts at over $1500.  So you might wonder, is the Vetrano worth $500 + more?  I gotta admit, having a rotary pump sure is nice, plus the chromed E-61 is beautiful bling, and you do have to look at this machine sitting on your counter top day after day.  I like bling=:-)

It's hard to compare the two because they are built to two different price points but I have to admit, the rotary pump factored heavily in my buying decision when I had to buy another HX machine, and I considered buying another HX from Salvatore, but to get a rotary pump and an E-61 group in a Salvatore machine, you have to spend $3 K.  I dropped about $1600 for the Vetrano


Best,


Jake
Reddick Fla.
Even a blind squirrel finds a nut every once in a while...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shakin_jake on September 09, 2011, 12:59:29 AM
As a lever-head, I can fully understand why you would favor a rotary pump over a vibe pump.  I love listening to the water fill the group.



~~~on the single boiler Gaggia, a vibe pump is not a bad thing, in fact, it's a good thing from a cost perspective (I think Tex will agree with me on this point) with the consumer Gaggias as the boiler only holds little better than a shot's worth of water, you flip the pump switch and stop when you have the volume you're after, no flushing is done nor needed, but when you have an HX group that needs to be flushed, I've found with using a quiet pump like a rotary, you can actually here when the water stops flash boiling which greatly assists in determing when to stop flushing.  Now on the Salvatore HX machine I had, because the vibe pump was noisy enough you couldn't listen for the termination of water not flashing any longer, you could watch for the water to stop spitting out of the group, a visual termination of water flashing if you will...but since I have been using a rotary pump on my current HX espresso machine, IMNSHO, I think it's worth spending the extra jack to have that quietness, if only so you can hear the water flash ending.  Plus, it's the preferred way to dial in group pressure.  As always though, others may have better and different opinions

For the record, I have nothing but good things to say about Salvatore's espresso machine (and I don't give out compliments lightly), the One Black I used, and his and Wendy's service I recieved everytime I phoned or did email with them, when and if I had questions and also during the ordering process

BTW, I wrote a review for the Vetrano on coffeegeek back in June of this year ...If you care to read it, here it is-

http://www.coffeegeek.com/reviews/commercial/vetrano/shakin_jake (http://www.coffeegeek.com/reviews/commercial/vetrano/shakin_jake)


Best,


Jake
Reddick Fla.
BRILLIANT'S LAW OF LIMITED AMBITION: If you can't learn how to do it well learn how to enjoy doing it poorly
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shakin_jake on September 12, 2011, 11:22:44 PM
Very Nice Set Up!...So how do you like that Vario coffee bean grinder?...I've heard some good thinhgs about them


Best,


Jake
Reddick Fla.
Education is a method whereby one acquires a higher grade of prejudices.
-- Laurence J. Peter
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on September 13, 2011, 04:37:43 AM
I wanted to join shakin_jake in showing my espresso machine in the midst of a working kitchen...

Your Factory's drip pan is my shaving bowl.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rfeuker on September 13, 2011, 05:00:52 AM


For the record, I have nothing but good things to say about Salvatore's espresso machine (and I don't give out compliments lightly), the One Black I used, and his and Wendy's service I recieved everytime I phoned or did email with them, when and if I had questions and also during the ordering process


I am the lucky guy who wound up with Jake's Salvatore One Black.  Like Jake, I bought this as my first HX machine (upgrading from a Silvia) and have nothing but good things to say about it.  Leaving it on all day is not an issue for me since I am by no means a heavy volume user.  I manage to pull really good to excellent shots most times.  Steaming milk took a little practice, but that's not the machine, that's the nut behind the controls. 

I have been researching for my next upgrade and the Vetrano is very high on my list.  Looks like I have the wife convinced that it would make an excellent birthday/Christmas/Valentine's Day gift (maybe for two years).  One issue for me is plumbing.  I have a really nice coffee bar setup but it's approximately 25 feet from the nearest water source.  Is the pump with the 5 gallon jug easy and convenient?  I could probably get the jug into a side of the cabinet where there are two shelves now.

BTW, I'm really looking at a Christmas time purchase of the upgrade, but if anyone reading this might be interested in buying the Salvatore, drop me a PM.  I can be convinced to updrade early  :).

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shakin_jake on September 13, 2011, 06:08:42 AM
Hi Bob!,  Glad to hear you are getting on well with the vnereable One Black.  Hooking up a Flo Jet to a 5 gallon water bottle then running the line to your espresso machine is quite simple.  I would think the tough part would be what are you going to do for your make up water source?  Do you plan on buying water or making (improving well or city) water?


Best,


Jake
Reddick Fla.
Education is a method whereby one acquires a higher grade of prejudices.
-- Laurence J. Peter
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on September 13, 2011, 07:23:15 AM
Hi Bob!,  Glad to hear you are getting on well with the vnereable One Black.  Hooking up a Flo Jet to a 5 gallon water bottle then running the line to your espresso machine is quite simple.  I would think the tough part would be what are you going to do for your make up water source?  Do you plan on buying water or making (improving well or city) water?


Best,

Jake
Reddick Fla.
Education is a method whereby one acquires a higher grade of prejudices.
-- Laurence J. Peter

I agree with Jake, a FloJet is simple to use. I use a quick-connect hose attached to a sink faucet to fill the fresh water jug.

Two things;
1) Use a smaller jug for fresh water than you use for waste water. If a switch or valve malfunctions you won't overflow the bigger jug.

2) Use a filtration/softener system after the Flojet. I use potassium chloride to recharge my softener instead of salt - better for the body.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on September 13, 2011, 02:30:15 PM
Very Nice Set Up!...So how do you like that Vario coffee bean grinder?...I've heard some good things about them

For me, it was quite the upgrade.  I...

Any heat transference to the beans, Chris?  Relatively small burrs, no?

B|Java
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on September 13, 2011, 02:43:43 PM
Very Nice Set Up!...So how do you like that Vario coffee bean grinder?...I've heard some good things about them

For me, it was quite the upgrade.  I...

Any heat transference to the beans, Chris?  Relatively small burrs, no?

B|Java

Are the Vario burrs solid ceramic or ceramic coated steel?

IIRC, ceramic stores less heat than steel, so there'd be less heat transferred to the beans if they're solid ceramic. In general though, the smaller the burrs the faster they have to spin to grind, and speed equals more heat generated.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shakin_jake on September 13, 2011, 02:45:06 PM
Dave, I thought I read somewhere the burrs are 54 mm in diameter



@yakster- I'd love to play with a Vario on my counter for oh say, 3 weeks.  I've heard so many glowing reports.  Some users claim the Vario was such a significant upgrade concerning espresso, it made their straight shots improve, to the popint they gave up drinking milk with their espresso./  I can't say I drink milk drinks becuase my Ranchilio MD-50 coffee bean grinder doesn't perform adaquately to make a good tasting straight shot, I just don't care all that much for straight shots, but I would be interested in seeing if the Vario lives up to the hype.  Maybe next time Tex goes to Wally World he'll drive and drop one off on his way down=:-)


Best,


Jake
Reddick Fla.
Education is a method whereby one acquires a higher grade of prejudices.
-- Laurence J. Peter
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on September 13, 2011, 03:16:40 PM
Yes ... burr size (http://www.amazon.com/Baratza-885-Espresso-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B0027DVMDC) is 54 mm.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: EricBNC on September 15, 2011, 11:26:11 AM
My machine:

(http://i52.tinypic.com/11hvzbm.jpg)

My K30 has a new friend with the Silvano.

btw, how does that Styrofoam hopper on the K30 look? Someone accused it of appearing cheap!  ;D

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on September 15, 2011, 11:58:49 AM
My machine:



My K30 has a new friend with the Silvano.

btw, how does that Styrofoam hopper on the K30 look? Someone accused it of appearing cheap!  ;D

The Silvano is SO shiny; put it on a platinum chain and it'd look right at home hanging from a hip-hop star's neck! ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shakin_jake on September 16, 2011, 01:08:06 AM
I'd love to play with the K30!


Best,


Jake
Reddick Fla.
Two good things about getting old: 1: you can't see the schmuts and 2: you don't care 
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on October 24, 2011, 01:43:27 PM
I need to arrange the cords so they don't show. And according to Mrs T, I also need something decorative for the wall above the machine?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on October 24, 2011, 03:06:43 PM
Good luck on hiding those cords.  Some sort of loom maybe?

Doesn't Mrs. T have a nifty poster to put above the bar?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on October 24, 2011, 03:25:15 PM
I need to arrange the cords so they don't show. And according to Mrs T, I also need something decorative for the wall above the machine?

I would buy another grinder and slide it in there.  Poof, cords gone.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grinderz on October 24, 2011, 03:34:45 PM
Better do something quick before Mrs. T goes for these.

(http://www.ornamentea.com/merchant2/graphics/00000001/plr255.15G.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on October 24, 2011, 06:28:58 PM
Or put your machine on the right, where it's supposed to be, so it hides the cords/outlet.   :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: BoldJava on January 03, 2012, 06:30:01 PM
Not mine, but a poster, Gor, from Home-Barista uploaded this photo of his collection.

([url]http://www.home-barista.com/forums/userpix/11592_1966-flood-of-river-arno_2.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://www.home-barista.com/levers/lmwdp-rollcall-t533-1100.html#p234589[/url])


HB blocks image exports.  You have to save it to your drive and then upload.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Whale on January 04, 2012, 04:13:36 AM
Not mine, but a poster, Gor, from Home-Barista uploaded this photo of his collection.
Not completely true. He also wrote: "BTW, that photo above is not my collection! Rather, it is a photo of the levers that were damaged in floods that happened in 1966 in Venice I think?"

It gives you an idea of what is potentially available out there
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on January 05, 2012, 03:38:57 PM
I snagged this off craigslist today... I have to get a basket and a tamper...probably also get a group gasket and piston seals while I'm at it.

Sama Export
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on January 05, 2012, 03:52:16 PM
Big thanks to Warrior who gave me some tips/info on it before I bought it.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Warrior372 on January 05, 2012, 04:50:04 PM
Awesome!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: staylor on January 05, 2012, 05:35:32 PM
Sweet!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grinderz on January 05, 2012, 05:56:08 PM
If those work as nice as they look... Wow!!!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on January 05, 2012, 06:02:52 PM
Good snag Milo.

Are you posting your first shot from it?

 ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: expy98 on January 06, 2012, 11:25:32 AM
Nice Milo, it looks like it's in great condition as is. 
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: expy98 on January 06, 2012, 11:27:48 AM
I'd like to see a picture of expy98's new Caravel, working or not...

Chris,

not sure how I got called out on this thread, I went back several pages and didn't
see any posts of mine that mentioned anything... you must be psychic :-)

here are the only pics I have so far from trying to troubleshoot some problems.
Aint it pretty? 

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on January 06, 2012, 11:36:10 AM
Hey milo - send it to me and I'll guard it with your life!

BTW, Am I the only one noticing milo's increasingly avaricious (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/avaricious) nature? Very unseemly dude!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: expy98 on January 06, 2012, 02:51:47 PM
I will have to change my handle on the other forums...

open boiler and afaik, the Caravel may be the only machine w/ an external heating element?

A Sama/PV Export or something similar w/ decent steaming capability would tempt me
to go w/out a pump machine.  Hint hint Milo:-)

Didn't OO tried to sell off one of her Caravels?  Perfect op right there...  While looking
thought about contacting OO...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: milowebailey on January 06, 2012, 02:58:58 PM
Hey milo - send it to me and I'll guard it with your life!

BTW, Am I the only one noticing milo's increasingly avaricious ([url]http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/avaricious[/url]) nature? Very unseemly dude!

Envy will get you nowhere Tex
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on January 06, 2012, 03:00:53 PM
I'd like to see a picture of expy98's new Caravel, working or not...

Chris,

not sure how I got called out on this thread, I went back several pages and didn't
see any posts of mine that mentioned anything... you must be psychic :-)

here are the only pics I have so far from trying to troubleshoot some problems.
Aint it pretty?

Aha, so that's what happened to all those tins that canned hams used to come in? Excellent use of recycled material dude!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on January 06, 2012, 03:03:49 PM
Hey milo - send it to me and I'll guard it with your life!

BTW, Am I the only one noticing milo's increasingly avaricious ([url]http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/avaricious[/url]) nature? Very unseemly dude!

Envy will get you nowhere Tex


Not even if I resort to begging?
(http://www.catsdo.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/cat-begging-gif.gif)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: expy98 on January 06, 2012, 03:10:22 PM
it was good ham and careful all that chopping might break a leg...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on January 06, 2012, 05:10:49 PM
Canned Ham espresso machine!  I like it.

Reminds me of the Tuna Can Transceiver plans I would see in the Ham radio magazines.

Though nowadays everyone's using Altoids tins to make all their projects.



Tell me that machine isn't using this for a boiler?

(http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTRUHmUpFZDMwjo3Bw4mY28c0S1b4w5VLtc7PQR8jxzl1lQ0xeyaO45xw3E)(http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=2507.0;attach=11595;image)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: expy98 on January 06, 2012, 05:14:47 PM
and the meat thermometer still stuck on there...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: expy98 on January 06, 2012, 05:23:54 PM
or gut it and put in a butane burner

http://www.orphanespresso.com/zoomify.asp?catalogid=2788&img=assets/images/feb2/rekrowsmartstove.jpg (http://www.orphanespresso.com/zoomify.asp?catalogid=2788&img=assets/images/feb2/rekrowsmartstove.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: expy98 on January 06, 2012, 05:31:10 PM
that is great, does it work?  is it all custom fabbed or innards of some machine?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on January 06, 2012, 05:52:37 PM
Add one of these and some wire and your almost there.


I think we need us an hillbilly espresso machine.

Something better than putting a moka pot on top of an iron held in place by a shoe (can't find the photo right now)


Hillbilly is such a dated & pejorative word - how 'bout redneck espresso machine? I can see a turkey fryer boiler, and maybe a 3200 psi power washer pump, and a cast iron frying pan portafilter - hmmm...

Nah, Mrs T wouldn't let me do that.

This squirrel's got a head start on the wiring plans.
Zapped Squirrel (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XBurkUkdFE#ws)

ZAP!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on January 06, 2012, 09:10:51 PM
Hillbilly is such a dated & pejorative word - how 'bout redneck espresso machine? I can see a turkey fryer boiler, and maybe a 3200 psi power washer pump, and a cast iron frying pan portafilter - hmmm...

Nah, Mrs T wouldn't let me do that.

This squirrel's got a head start on the wiring plans.
Zapped Squirrel ([url]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XBurkUkdFE#ws[/url])

ZAP!


 :o
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on February 15, 2012, 08:51:57 PM
You should do a throw down ... La Pepi vs La Tini ... challenge of the taste buds.

 ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on February 16, 2012, 06:26:01 AM
You should do a throw down ... La Pepi vs La Tini ... challenge of the taste buds.

 ;D

And if neither won, how embarrassing? :'(
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on February 16, 2012, 06:44:19 AM
You should do a throw down ... La Pepi vs La Tini ... challenge of the taste buds.

 ;D

And if neither won, how embarrassing? :'(

There is always a winner ... the question is by "what margin"?

 ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on February 16, 2012, 07:43:02 AM
You should do a throw down ... La Pepi vs La Tini ... challenge of the taste buds.

 ;D

And if neither won, how embarrassing? :'(

There is always a winner ... the question is by "what margin"?

 ;D

Maybe we need new classifications?

Winner: Plays well enough to deserve a win.
Loser: Doesn't play well enough to deserve a win.
Eker: Plays well enough not to lose.

So in the Pepsi Challenge; Coke may lose, but Pepsi just eked out the win.

Or, to bring it closer to home for some; Ohio State may eke out a win over Michigan, but neither team would ever be considered a winner.

Or, when Bama & LSU play; one team may outscore the other, but both teams are really winners.

So, would the Le Pepi/Le Tina matchup be a Big 10 or SEC type of confrontation?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rarebear on February 16, 2012, 09:03:21 PM
(http://www.roethenbacher.de/images/Bricoletta_rigth600.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on February 20, 2012, 01:29:28 PM
Almost finished.
(http://greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=2507.0;attach=11861;image)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on February 20, 2012, 08:40:52 PM
Now that is a different looking machine rarebear ... what is it?

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ScareYourPassenger on February 21, 2012, 05:20:50 AM
In his sig..

Fiorenzata Bricoletta
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on February 21, 2012, 01:47:51 PM
Almost finished.
([url]http://greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=2507.0;attach=11861;image[/url])


Robert ... are those bottles of Torani flavored syrups commonly used for making frou frou drinks on those shelves?

 ???
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on February 21, 2012, 01:49:39 PM
In his sig..

Fiorenzata Bricoletta

Thanks SYP.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: grinderz on February 21, 2012, 02:17:05 PM
Almost finished.
([url]http://greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=2507.0;attach=11861;image[/url])


Robert ... are those bottles of Torani flavored syrups commonly used for making frou frou drinks on those shelves?

 ???

In his defense, did you notice that only one is opened?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on February 21, 2012, 05:58:01 PM
Almost finished.
([url]http://greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=2507.0;attach=11861;image[/url])


Robert ... are those bottles of Torani flavored syrups commonly used for making frou frou drinks on those shelves?

 ???

In his defense, did you notice that only one is opened?


Yeah ... but he's drinking the frou???

 :o
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ScareYourPassenger on March 19, 2012, 05:46:01 AM
Well, I finally finished my backsplash in the kitchen and feel that I can post pictures without shame:)

I had to do without espresso for a month while I worked on the kitchen in my spare time. I am working and going back to school so my time was limited.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/8840196/espressogear.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on March 19, 2012, 05:55:43 AM
Nice setup SYP.

Good job on the tiles.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Warrior372 on March 19, 2012, 08:46:05 PM
Very nice espresso setup and back splash!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: PozzSka on March 21, 2012, 06:54:43 AM
SYP, is that the plumbed version? 

I really like that machine, and it is towards the top of my list on upgrades when the time comes.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ScareYourPassenger on March 21, 2012, 07:22:06 AM
SYP, is that the plumbed version? 

I really like that machine, and it is towards the top of my list on upgrades when the time comes.

It is the mini (pourover), I needed some flexibility because it was questionable if I was even allowed to have it on the counter.

I love the looks and the temp stability. It has the pre-infusion chamber installed and I picked up the timer used but it may not have been necessary.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 21, 2012, 07:51:20 AM
Very nice setup! It may cause a lot of folks to envy you, but that's a good thing. ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on March 21, 2012, 08:36:17 AM
It is the mini (pourover), I needed some flexibility because it was questionable if I was even allowed to have it on the counter.

I love the looks and the temp stability. It has the pre-infusion chamber installed and I picked up the timer used but it may not have been necessary.

Have you been to S1cafe.com yet?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ScareYourPassenger on March 21, 2012, 10:51:40 AM
Yup, been there and it has been a good resource.

The grinder pictured has been sold and I will be trying out a Pharos next!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rarebear on March 24, 2012, 12:06:46 AM
Now that is a different looking machine rarebear ... what is it?

 :)

Fiorenzata Bricoletta
They call it The Retro Trash Can Look or a Brick ..
I have been pretty happy with it..
Some times I with it was a double boiler but I look at prices and I'm happy again :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on March 24, 2012, 10:49:28 AM
Now that is a different looking machine rarebear ... what is it?

 :)

Fiorenzata Bricoletta
They call it The Retro Trash Can Look or a Brick ..
I have been pretty happy with it..
Some times I with it was a double boiler but I look at prices and I'm happy again :)

That machine is fairly expensive ... is it not?

I just looked it up ... $1700.00 at First Line.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 24, 2012, 11:51:09 AM
Now that is a different looking machine rarebear ... what is it?

 :)

Fiorenzata Bricoletta
They call it The Retro Trash Can Look or a Brick ..
I have been pretty happy with it..
Some times I with it was a double boiler but I look at prices and I'm happy again :)

Looks like something Huggy Bear would drive.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rarebear on March 24, 2012, 11:59:31 AM
Now that is a different looking machine rarebear ... what is it?

 :)


Fiorenzata Bricoletta
They call it The Retro Trash Can Look or a Brick ..
I have been pretty happy with it..
Some times I with it was a double boiler but I look at prices and I'm happy again :)


That machine is fairly expensive ... is it not?

I just looked it up ... $1700.00 at First Line.

 :)


I got it for $1,200 when 1st Line bought out the importer, it is the older model with old style steam wands..
There is a good write up at HB
http://www.home-barista.com/pros-perspective-briccoletta.html (http://www.home-barista.com/pros-perspective-briccoletta.html)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rarebear on March 24, 2012, 06:00:20 PM
Any Folks with a E-61 Group Head ?

I made a few adapters to get the temp of the water just before it leaves the group head..
You just remove the screw in front and screw this in..It uses a Taylor Meat Temp. cut and the extra wire is fished into the head..

If I get a more than three folks that want the brass and plastic I run a batch off..
I'd be asking $10 +S&H

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/25155_1184483705902_1642539189_30460358_8117526_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/25155_1184483865906_1642539189_30460360_4423765_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 24, 2012, 07:13:16 PM
Any Folks with a E-61 Group Head ?

I made a few adapters to get the temp of the water just before it leaves the group head..
You just remove the screw in front and screw this in..It uses a Taylor Meat Temp. cut and the extra wire is fished into the head..

If I get a more than three folks that want the brass and plastic I run a batch off..
I'd be asking $10 +S&H


Very clever - much tidier than the compression fittings I've seen used with other thermometers. Much cheaper too!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rarebear on March 24, 2012, 09:53:12 PM
I have more time than money these days and this can only leak from being loose :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on March 25, 2012, 04:45:13 AM
Any Folks with a E-61 Group Head ?

I made a few adapters to get the temp of the water just before it leaves the group head..
You just remove the screw in front and screw this in..It uses a Taylor Meat Temp. cut and the extra wire is fished into the head..

If I get a more than three folks that want the brass and plastic I run a batch off..
I'd be asking $10 +S&H

Plus instructions?

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rarebear on March 25, 2012, 07:59:10 AM
You just screw it in..
Pull Taylor Thermometer a part and cut stem..

You can see the temp of your flush and stop at the exact spot every time..

I flush to 198º and finish pulling shot at 200º
No guessing..
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on March 26, 2012, 05:53:53 AM
You just screw it in..
Pull Taylor Thermometer a part and cut stem..

You can see the temp of your flush and stop at the exact spot every time..

I flush to 198º and finish pulling shot at 200º
No guessing..

Does it make a marked improvement to your shots?

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rarebear on March 26, 2012, 09:43:37 AM
For me it does... I know what the temp of my pulled shots are..
If I didn't have one I'd be crazy by now..
Its one thing I know I have right.. Now I just have to worry about grind and dose :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: smico on March 26, 2012, 09:59:55 AM
Any Folks with a E-61 Group Head ?

I made a few adapters to get the temp of the water just before it leaves the group head..
You just remove the screw in front and screw this in..It uses a Taylor Meat Temp. cut and the extra wire is fished into the head..

If I get a more than three folks that want the brass and plastic I run a batch off..
I'd be asking $10 +S&H
I don't need the screwdriver as I have exactly the same one.  The best screwdriver ever...   :)
I am in.  Let me know if you will go ahead and I will PM my US shipping address. 
My machine is Brewtus IIIR with PID, but the more temperature measurements the merrier.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 26, 2012, 10:09:27 AM
FYI - this type of temp measurement only shows the temp of the water as it passes through the group, not the actual brew temp. To measure the brew temp you'll need a Scace device, or do as I do and loop a thin-wire thermocouple over the lip of the filter basket and place the t/c tip on top of the puck and as near to the center of the puck as possible.

If you have a data logging thermometer, even better - you can measure the group temp and record it for posterity, like this;
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: smico on March 26, 2012, 02:09:03 PM
Nice
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 27, 2012, 05:37:04 AM
It's more useful to know the HX machine's static boiler temp than a dynamic temp reading measured in the group. By measuring dynamic brew temps at the puck, you can determine what boiler temp, and cooling flush duration, are required to give you an even temp profile at the brew temp for the shot duration you desire.

For example; in the shot shown earlier, I began with a boiler temp of 240°F, used a 5 second cooling flush, and pulled a 30 second shot at 200°F. It's that simple to pull consistent shots when you begin with a stable HX boiler temp reading.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rarebear on March 27, 2012, 10:31:04 AM
Tex, what happens if you start @ 230º or 220º ?
 
The brew head gauge shows the water temp just before it leaves into the puck on ever shot..
I can see your gauge being more accurate but its not something you can use on every shot and not look like a mad scientist :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 27, 2012, 10:44:41 AM
This image shows what happens if there's no cooling flush with an idle E61-type machine The thermo-siphon heated group will eventually become the same temp as the boiler, and the group becomes the same temp as the HX.

The cooling flush cools the HX and group.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rarebear on March 27, 2012, 04:21:22 PM
Tex,
I should bit my tongue as I am sure you know books more than I do..

I was just playing with my pressure stat after reading you just flush for 5 secs...
I lowered mine a bit as I had to flush 8oz of water, now I just have to flush 4oz
For me this little gauge makes my life easy and I can see if  screwed up from the normal every time I pull a shot..

I how am going to make a new steam wand tip (they sell them as the stock ones are too big)
My stock tip has 4 big holes and I was using two tooth picks to plug up a two holes and it worked great but now I think it would work better smaller that I lowered the pressure..
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 27, 2012, 06:08:13 PM
My Nuova Simonelli Mac Digit had a 4-hole tip with large diameter holes, and it would blow the milk out of smaller pitchers. I silver soldered all four holes and redrilled the tip with just two smaller parallel holes. It was a lot easier to steam with after that.

With my current HX, lowering the boiler temp from 253°F to 240°F also makes it easier to steam.
Title: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: PozzSka on March 28, 2012, 11:02:36 AM
Just put the PID on my Gaggia Classic.

With steam control, Silvia wand, but haven't tuned in the OPV yet.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 28, 2012, 11:33:29 AM
Just put the PID on my Gaggia Classic.

With steam control, Silvia wand, but haven't tuned in the OPV yet.

Nice looking setup! Now adjust the OPV; that'll make a huge difference in shot quality.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: PozzSka on March 28, 2012, 11:42:08 AM
Just put the PID on my Gaggia Classic.

With steam control, Silvia wand, but haven't tuned in the OPV yet.

Nice looking setup! Now adjust the OPV; that'll make a huge difference in shot quality.

I have the two pieces you mentioned in the Gaggia thread, I have to find a proper gauge now.

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on March 28, 2012, 11:50:56 AM
Just put the PID on my Gaggia Classic.

With steam control, Silvia wand, but haven't tuned in the OPV yet.

Nice looking setup! Now adjust the OPV; that'll make a huge difference in shot quality.

I have the two pieces you mentioned in the Gaggia thread, I have to find a proper gauge now.

When you get everything setup & adjusted, shoot some video of a shot being pulled & post it on YouTube. Espresso porn is a favorite of mine! ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: doubleosoul on March 30, 2012, 10:36:24 PM
Now that is a different looking machine rarebear ... what is it?

 :)

Fiorenzata Bricoletta
They call it The Retro Trash Can Look or a Brick ..
I have been pretty happy with it..
Some times I with it was a double boiler but I look at prices and I'm happy again :)

Looks like something Huggy Bear would drive.

Ah, there's my man Antonio Vargas!

I looked at the Bric a real long time before I decided to for the Salvatore E61 I have now.
OO
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: rarebear on March 30, 2012, 11:02:44 PM
How is the Salvatore E61 ?

I remember looking at them I think..
They are made in the USA right?
I was considering them but thought it was still kind of a new company..
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Ringo on April 07, 2012, 10:16:19 AM
Here is my new coffee bar.  I bought this Faima Smart for $23 2 years ago, and have been working on it off and on for that time.  It was sold at an commercial auction site as an parts machine.  And it was a mess, lots of parts missing, side pannels busted.  Roaches filled the electrical box.  I think it was in kitchen as greese was baked on.  it turns out the capacitor went out ont the pump and some machanic ripped it apart trying to find out what was busted.  The fill solinoid was missing, key pad busted off.  It was not a great deal, by the time I got all the parts I needed I could have bought it running. Everything was done by me, powder coated the frame, polished the stainless, rewelded the crackes in the side panels.  I build the cabnet it sits on, made the counter top, installed the sink, wired and ran the pipes.  Its nice to be in rural Ohio where there are no inspectors to deal with.  Had my first espresso this morning and it was good.  I did have to get a bigger pitcher,with that big steam wand milk went everywhere with the pitcher I use on the Silvia. One advice I will give out is do not buy an espresso machine to fix if parts are missing, they are hard to find.  I ended up using a company in Australia call Cafe Parts, they seemed to have all the parts for this machine.  On a side note I found out its not "our" kitchen becouse the wife said you are not going to put that in "my" kitchen.  You are not going to drill "my" countertops.  I ended up putting it in my basement.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Ringo on April 07, 2012, 10:20:53 AM
Do not know why it was a bad picture the first time.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on April 07, 2012, 10:27:58 AM
Nice job Ringo!

What type of grinder did you end up with?

 ???
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Ringo on April 07, 2012, 10:37:48 AM
Its a Rossi that I got from someone at the club.  It the first time I used it this morning also.  I think the burrs need some more breaking in.  They are new and I had a hard time getting the grind right.  Only around 1/2 pound of coffee been through the grinder. 
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on April 07, 2012, 10:43:38 AM
You can't argue with the crema laden shot you pulled.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on April 07, 2012, 11:11:37 AM
You gots mad skillz Ringo!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on April 07, 2012, 12:26:25 PM
There's no such thing as excess in the search for the perfect shot. Nice job!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on April 07, 2012, 12:41:03 PM
There's no such thing as excess in the search for the perfect shot. Nice job!

Now he just needs that deeply skilled mentor.  Ringo, send Tex a ticket to rural Ohio.

Nice woodworking!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on April 07, 2012, 12:50:26 PM
Did you strip the chrome from the group? They're pretty cheap to have rechromed.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Ringo on April 07, 2012, 01:42:13 PM
Yea the rookie in me did not realize that acid would strip chrome.  I am going to live with it.  Some things I did not know cost me some money.  I soaked the heat coils under water to get the scale off, they grounded out with water. 
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Tex on April 07, 2012, 03:20:46 PM
Yea the rookie in me did not realize that acid would strip chrome.  I am going to live with it.  Some things I did not know cost me some money.  I soaked the heat coils under water to get the scale off, they grounded out with water.

Dry wet elements in a 300°F oven for two hours and they work just fine.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Ringo on April 07, 2012, 04:30:22 PM
I tried that but they were still shorted, could have been bad all the time.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: RobertL on April 27, 2012, 07:38:32 PM
My new set up and my first grinder really capable of grinding for espresso. I pulled a few shots of the Redbird today to break the machine in. None were worth drinking straight but the last one went well in a latte.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on April 27, 2012, 07:43:33 PM
My new set up and my first grinder really capable of grinding for espresso. I pulled a few shots of the Redbird today to break the machine in. None were worth drinking straight but the last one went well in a latte.

For those nights when the newborn won't let you sleep...

Enjoy the new toys.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: shakin_jake on May 03, 2012, 11:55:36 PM
How is the Salvatore E61 ?

I remember looking at them I think..
They are made in the USA right?
I was considering them but thought it was still kind of a new company..


~~~Salvatore builds his machines in California...Solvang IIRC.  I bought one of his entry level machines a few years ago and loved it...an HX he hand made...58mm commercial thermo siphon group, vibe pump.  the build quality was outstanding.  hard times forced a sale and when I became flush I bought another HX from a different manufacturer (very happy w/my Quick Mill Vetrano) yet if anyone asks for opinions on Salvatore espresso machines, I will give the one I used two very enthusiastic thumbs up

In regards to Salvatore being a new company...that he is not.  I think he is in his 70's and has worked with espresso machines most of his life.  He is an accomplished machinist making many of the parts for his machines himself, then assembling them entirely by hand himself.  If you do a search for his company you can read a bio on Salvatore at his website


Best,


Jake
Reddick Fla.
My great grandfather was an old indian fighter...he was married to an old indian...   
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Cammie on May 04, 2012, 08:15:20 PM
So many beautiful machines.  I loved looking through this thread. :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: tyme on May 18, 2012, 10:10:22 AM
Just picked up another La Pavoni.  A Europpicola in Brass/Copper that is in almost perfect condition.  I'm naming her Goldie Hawn. 
The Chrome Pro is still my preferred machine though. Her name-Silver Sarandon.
(http://distilleryimage11.instagram.com/78c5fb0ca0ae11e1a8761231381b4856_7.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: expy98 on May 18, 2012, 10:37:42 AM
makes perfect sense, Hawn is the one w/ the smaller boiler and Saradon with the larger boiler,
would be inconceivable to get them confused...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on May 18, 2012, 03:49:18 PM
Size is relative.

 ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ScareYourPassenger on May 18, 2012, 05:30:16 PM
Just picked up another La Pavoni.  A Europpicola in Brass/Copper that is in almost perfect condition.  I'm naming her Goldie Hawn. 
The Chrome Pro is still my preferred machine though. Her name-Silver Sarandon.


If you want to finish off the collection I have a factory gold version with wooden handles that will be posted shortly.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: expy98 on May 18, 2012, 06:07:49 PM
Size is relative.

 ;D

I don't yet own an LP but if I did, it'd have to be the Saradon model.  Extra steam...
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: tyme on May 18, 2012, 06:17:21 PM
Size is relative.

 ;D

I don't yet own an LP but if I did, it'd have to be the Saradon model.  Extra steam...

Sarandon is able to regulate herself better too.  Goldie can be a little firecracker
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: tyme on May 18, 2012, 06:22:06 PM
Just picked up another La Pavoni.  A Europpicola in Brass/Copper that is in almost perfect condition.  I'm naming her Goldie Hawn. 
The Chrome Pro is still my preferred machine though. Her name-Silver Sarandon.


If you want to finish off the collection I have a factory gold version with wooden handles that will be posted shortly.

I would be interested but even so I already have three (lent one to a friend) I will most likely just sell and/or gift the two brass europiccolas.

I do like those gold one's. 
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: EricBNC on May 18, 2012, 09:48:58 PM
My latest set of stuff - subject as always to change...

(http://i47.tinypic.com/eq4qs.jpg)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on May 19, 2012, 05:44:16 PM
Eric ... that looks like the corner caffe with all that equipment.

 ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on May 19, 2012, 05:45:20 PM
Nice setup Chris.

The Vario and Gaggia look nice together.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: RobertL on October 16, 2017, 01:57:01 PM
Digging up this old thread to show off my new espresso gear.  :)

I've been working like crazy lately so I decided to reward myself with an upgrade to my espresso gear. I bought a Profitec 300 dual boiler machine with a PID with a Baratza Sette 270 to go with it. Despite some negative reviews on the Sette I've had zero problems with mine and it's not as loud as I expected based off reviews. I'm only using the Sette for espresso so I'm not sure how it would work for drip or pourover. The Profitec 300 has a group that is similar to my Gaggia, the boiler sits on top of the group. It's nice to be able to switch between pulling a shot and steaming without waiting. The shot quality and temperature stability is better than my Gaggia due to the much larger brew boiler, 11oz on the Profitec. So far I'm loving this set up!


Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on October 16, 2017, 02:40:52 PM
Danged, that is a pretty set-up!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: RobertL on October 16, 2017, 03:13:10 PM
Thank you!
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on October 16, 2017, 06:14:24 PM
Thank you!

Sounds great and looks great Robert. I like the PID, 5 minutes heating up time from for an espresso shot! Much more efficient than my HX machine and with the PID, much more accurate temperature for your shot!

Good purchase!

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: drg02b on April 12, 2018, 08:23:44 AM
RECOMMENDATIONS?

So, instead of starting a new thread, I'm hoping people will see this and can give me recommendations -- I'm interested in getting into espresso and wondering what a good quality starter brewer would be.  I've had experience with the stovetop percolators, and definitely don't like their taste. I've heard that you have to spend $400-700 on a machine to do it right, but I noticed SM's had a video review of the Flair for $160 (manual press) and said their staff really like it.

Do people have any experience with the Flair, and or any other similarly priced (or cheaper) options that are almost as good as the high end machines?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on April 12, 2018, 08:43:26 AM
What is "right" really depends.  I started with a Mokka pot, moved on to a $100 (1980's dollars) pressure machine, the a fancier Swiss machine,... In the end, I was really satisfied only when I broke the $2,000 barrier.  I wish I could be satisfied with $160, though.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: peter on April 12, 2018, 08:58:08 AM
I think there's a Flair thread around here somewhere, albeit not much in it.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: vberch on April 12, 2018, 09:18:51 AM
You can have great espresso on the budget by buying a second hand Zassenhaus or PeDe hand grinder and a used La Pavoni, Espresso Forge, Portaspresso Rossa or new Flair. If you shop around you can stay within $200 or $250. This is a great way to venture into the wonderful world of espresso.

Over the years I've purchased a number of used Gaggia Baby, Carezza and Pure espresso machines (Italian made, single boiler, well built inexpensive machines) for less than a $100, refurbished them and gifted them to my friends. If you want to spend even less, for less than $50, I'd stick with Bialetti, Aeropress, French Press, Turkish Cezve/Ibrik or drip paired with a hand grinder and enjoy wonderful coffee.

RECOMMENDATIONS?

So, instead of starting a new thread, I'm hoping people will see this and can give me recommendations -- I'm interested in getting into espresso and wondering what a good quality starter brewer would be.  I've had experience with the stovetop percolators, and definitely don't like their taste. I've heard that you have to spend $400-700 on a machine to do it right, but I noticed SM's had a video review of the Flair for $160 (manual press) and said their staff really like it.

Do people have any experience with the Flair, and or any other similarly priced (or cheaper) options that are almost as good as the high end machines?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on April 12, 2018, 09:33:35 AM
RECOMMENDATIONS?

So, instead of starting a new thread, I'm hoping people will see this and can give me recommendations -- I'm interested in getting into espresso and wondering what a good quality starter brewer would be.  I've had experience with the stovetop percolators, and definitely don't like their taste. I've heard that you have to spend $400-700 on a machine to do it right, but I noticed SM's had a video review of the Flair for $160 (manual press) and said their staff really like it.

Do people have any experience with the Flair, and or any other similarly priced (or cheaper) options that are almost as good as the high end machines?

When it comes to espresso the most important tool will be to have a good grinder in order to produce the crema. With the good grinder you will find that you can pull great espresso shots even with an inexpensive second hand Gaggia espresso machine.

Now where you go from there depends on you. You may end up with a multi group espresso machine; or not.

 :)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: John F on April 12, 2018, 10:24:14 AM
I think Joe is looking at the Flair....probably can sum it up in under 69 pages.  ;D
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Badam on April 12, 2018, 10:26:01 AM
RECOMMENDATIONS?

So, instead of starting a new thread, I'm hoping people will see this and can give me recommendations -- I'm interested in getting into espresso and wondering what a good quality starter brewer would be.  I've had experience with the stovetop percolators, and definitely don't like their taste. I've heard that you have to spend $400-700 on a machine to do it right, but I noticed SM's had a video review of the Flair for $160 (manual press) and said their staff really like it.

Do people have any experience with the Flair, and or any other similarly priced (or cheaper) options that are almost as good as the high end machines?


Here's this forum's version of the HB thread: http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,20933.0.html (http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,20933.0.html)

You have the benefit of this forum being impartial and not giving it a good review in exchange for a free product or whatever else. You'll probably understand more if you read through the thread. No idea how the flair performs, but you won't catch me buying one if they only allow reviews of it that are positive and said positive review is decided beforehand. Also, I think there was something about an "impartial" reviewer actually working for the company. Frankly I don't have time to work out the details of less than honest companies.

I'm with MP, spend only what you have and feel comfortable with spending. Lean more towards a good grinder. If you are mechanically inclined you could easily do what I and others have done, purchase a cheap second-hand grinder and refurb it yourself. The same goes with an espresso machine. Be careful if you do decide to go the refurb route, some brands can hose you on cost of parts :/.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Joe on April 12, 2018, 11:46:05 AM
I think Joe is looking at the Flair....probably can sum it up in under 69 pages.  ;D

Thanks for the reminder. Yeah should be a quick assessment.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: drg02b on April 13, 2018, 01:10:53 PM
After only 4 hours with the Flair, I can say it's the greatest thing since sliced bread... lol, thanks for the product positioning backstory (I apparently don't follow these threads close enough).

As far as picking up old machines on the cheap, do you usually find them online or more through local options?

Thanks all for the advice.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on April 13, 2018, 03:40:06 PM
After only 4 hours with the Flair, I can say it's the greatest thing since sliced bread... lol, thanks for the product positioning backstory (I apparently don't follow these threads close enough).

As far as picking up old machines on the cheap, do you usually find them online or more through local options?

Thanks all for the advice.

Absolutely you will find them online. Make Google search and Craigslist your friend. Keep scouring the big towns and cities across the  US. You will be surprised what you will find.

 ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: newroaster on April 27, 2018, 04:27:44 PM
Ordered a Flair today. Should be up & running by 5/2. I too have heard it's the best thing since sliced bread, both from Mark Prince (Coffeegeek) and home-barista.com

We'll see.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on April 27, 2018, 04:50:18 PM
Ordered a Flair today. Should be up & running by 5/2. I too have heard it's the best thing since sliced bread, both from Mark Prince (Coffeegeek) and home-barista.com

We'll see.

Please give us your assessmment of the Rick Flair grinder.

 ;)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: newroaster on May 05, 2018, 05:17:21 PM
So the Flair is up & running. Ordered from Flair on Friday and it was here on Monday, free shipping.

A bit of a learning curve, but probably less than an automatic like Rancilio Silvia. Flair seems to be rather forgiving on grind and tamp. And I'll probably have to adjust again with new beans. The flavor is fantastic. My crema still isn't as thick as the videos on YouTube, but that's probably something I've got to nail down better. Also some beans produce better crema than others. I'm doing a mix of Peter's last Brazil and a Sumatra from Klatch. Prep & cleanup is pretty easy. It's quite ingenious to get a superb, controlable espresso pull for $160.

If you're buying, get the 2 brew head combo. It makes things easier. Well done Flair.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: newroaster on May 05, 2018, 05:41:56 PM
Review is up today.

Bob
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ptrmorton on May 06, 2018, 09:22:27 AM
Review is up today.

Bob


Where?
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: newroaster on May 06, 2018, 10:52:20 AM
Edit by Aaron:   Newroaster that link is just cycling back to the top of this thread here.
Please go back to where you put your post with the pics and re post the link.
Thank you
Aaron

Not really sure how/where to post here, but it's in:

Hardware/showoffyourequipment

Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: YasBean on May 06, 2018, 11:39:34 AM
[url]http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,2507.480.html[/url] ([url]http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,2507.480.html[/url])

Not really sure how/where to post here, but it's in:

Hardware/showoffyourequipment



I feel like I am trapped in a turnstile.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ptrmorton on May 06, 2018, 11:47:28 AM
[url]http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,2507.480.html[/url] ([url]http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,2507.480.html[/url])

Not really sure how/where to post here, but it's in:

Hardware/showoffyourequipment



I feel like I am trapped in a turnstile.



Or like Bill Murray in Groundhog Day.  Maybe post as a new thread and let the admin correct it if it isn't appropriate.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: newroaster on May 09, 2018, 11:39:38 AM
Just press on url below

http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,2507.480.html (http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,2507.480.html)
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: mp on May 09, 2018, 11:43:53 AM
Just press on url below

[url]http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,2507.480.html[/url] ([url]http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,2507.480.html[/url])


It would seem that this link is linking back to this thread.

?????
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ptrmorton on May 09, 2018, 12:04:27 PM
Just press on url below

[url]http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,2507.480.html[/url] ([url]http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php/topic,2507.480.html[/url])



Doesn't work.  All we see is the beginning of this thread with no review.  Again, try posting separately in a new thread and let admin take care of the details if necessary.  Thanks.
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: Ascholten on May 09, 2018, 12:11:23 PM
That link brings you to the head of this thread page with the following contents.
--
So the Flair is up & running. Ordered from Flair on Friday and it was here on Monday, free shipping.

A bit of a learning curve, but probably less than an automatic like Rancilio Silvia. Flair seems to be rather forgiving on grind and tamp. And I'll probably have to adjust again with new beans. The flavor is fantastic. My crema still isn't as thick as the videos on YouTube, but that's probably something I've got to nail down better. Also some beans produce better crema than others. I'm doing a mix of Peter's last Brazil and a Sumatra from Klatch. Prep & cleanup is pretty easy. It's quite ingenious to get a superb, controlable espresso pull for $160.

If you're buying, get the 2 brew head combo. It makes things easier. Well done Flair.
----

If you are trying to point to a different review you may have done, please goto that review and cut and paste the link from the header and put it here,  otherwise your link is just bringing you to the top of the page, which is where we all start to begin with anyways.

Aaron
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: newroaster on May 10, 2018, 05:18:29 PM
Uh Aaron, this is my only review.  In a previous post I said I had ordered a Flair. User ptrmorton couldn't find my review so I posted the link (which was really on the same page as the review itself). I see both. Am I doing this right?

Thanks, Bob
Title: Re: Show Off your Espresso Machine
Post by: ptrmorton on May 10, 2018, 06:10:10 PM
OK, my bad.  I was confused because of the post that directly followed which said the review was up.  I assumed there was more than what had been said earlier in the thread.