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Espresso machine suggestions on a budget, please

This is my first time posting, but I have done some searching and am not sure exactly what machine I want. On epinions.com , the Delonghi machines received good reviews, but are bashed on here. I also read on here the newer Briel machines are not very good. I am left wondering, what is a good machine that can be had for at or under $100 (before shipping)? Of course, this is eBay price, so the Delonghi Bar32 and machines like that are in play, but I don't see a whole lot of options at this price. I will use the machine mostly for espresso, so a decent frother is important, but I'd like to be able to taste a good espresso from it now & then also. Yes, I've read about the importance of a grinder too, so in advance, thanks for that advice :) and thanks for any other suggestions.

Reply to
flower_bug_04
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sad to report, but good espresso like at a coffee house is a no-go for $100 or even $200

the cheapest real espresso machine that is any good is about $400 called the Rancilio Sylvia, and considered a breakthrough at that price!

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at least there are some great manual grinders from Zassenhaus that are under $80

if you want an electric one, the cheapest suitable for espresso is the Innova I-2 for about $175

all this may sound expensive and crazy, but remember, you local coffeehouse, if they make great espresso or latte or cappuccino etc. probable spend at least 10 times this amount, so maybe looked at in that light, the prices above are a bargain

Reply to
cowboy

Please ignore the suggestions that you buy a $500 espresso machine when your goal is one for around $100. that's like going to a car lot and saying you have $5,000 to spend and are offered a $50,000 Hummer.

The small Briel is OK at about $129 new. I just got a NICE used Gaggia Espresso for $95.00 incl. shipping on ebay. A good grinder is important -- when you are ready teh Gaggia MDF is very serviceable -- I have owned and used all these machines, so I know what worked for me.

dave pidguy on ebay -- and the only one who posts his phone number! call 910 616 0980

Reply to
edna713

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