Me in my teens: Modding my PC. Me in my twenties: Modding my car. Me in my thirties: mOdDiNG mY cOFfeE MAcHinE.

@dave_s_vids

3 жыл бұрын

Yes - this is me! :D

@AbuSalem2099

3 жыл бұрын

eh, what is this spot light on me, go away... :D

@marcusbrown188

3 жыл бұрын

Me at 22: need coffee machine, college and life is demanding more work for no rewards

@Deatarus51

3 жыл бұрын

Damn, literally me...

@nommchompsky

3 жыл бұрын

WEIRDLY ACCURATE

James "I am a fancy man" Hoffmann

@savitbharadwaj4023

3 жыл бұрын

Edvardas "Mr. Obvious" Baravykas

@nothing.945

3 жыл бұрын

Savit Bharadwaj 😂😂😂😂😂😂

@TheOriginal_BigMac

3 жыл бұрын

There is a merch opportunity just sitting there

@samrjw8693

3 жыл бұрын

A fancy man with his fancy fancy. Auntie Donna fan by any chance?

@nate6862

3 жыл бұрын

Jimothy Hoffmann

"If I was teaching someone to steam milk for the first time..." - very kind of you to offer. I'm free next Tuesday, James. Let me know.

@ImAnEmergency

2 жыл бұрын

Dibs on Wednesday

I don’t have the kind of money spare to buy a £500 coffee machine but here I am listening intently to all of their pros and cons how does James make me care so much

@kellermeyer14

3 жыл бұрын

The cool thing is that you can find Sylvias in good condition, used for half that price. At least in the States. Also, here, anyway, you can find Sylvias with a PID for not much more than book price. I learned my lesson the hard way and bought a Baby Twin, which I would consider closer to the Sage in build quality, and when it died 3 years after purchase found out that it was made to be discarded. What James doesn't tell you is that you will inevitably want to upgrade your machine and when you do, having a Sylvia is the only way you'll get a return on investment.

@batousan_

Жыл бұрын

@@kellermeyer14 He did mention this, at the end of the video he talks about the need to mod (upgrade) and clearly points out the GCP and Silvia will hold their value better than the others.

@cyberpope2137

11 ай бұрын

Just get a Dedica then, it’s not far off and much cheaper

PLEASE do a video on baskets! what makes a good basket? what changes with the differences in baskets (hole size, hole number metal thickness etc)

@on2a

3 жыл бұрын

Seconded. I hear a lot about baskets referred to but a good break down of importance would be much valued!

@pgmoore21

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, please do this! I would watch that video in a heartbeat!

@markaochoa2017

3 жыл бұрын

I 4th this notion.

@coffeeiskey2176

3 жыл бұрын

Somehow everybody accept vst to own this topic and no one even thinks about making it different. Always wondered about that.

@pvman2

3 жыл бұрын

Also, an overview on sizes, what's common, what's unusual (maybe from a particular manufacturer), adaptors, converters, etc. Also, terms: basket vs. filter vs. portafilter, etc. Basically the names of the thing with the handle vs. the thing with the holes vs. the part on the machine that receives the cleats that are on the thing with the handle, etc. A good video for a novice and a refresher for the prosumer/expert.

In coffee I only trust people who keep their spoons in a case

Since I was coming back to rewatch just some of the machines. I thought I'd put in the work for others: Build, Shot 2:13, 7:42 Lelit 3:22, 8:47 Delonghi 4:07, 10:31 Rancilio 5:03, 11:43 Sage / Breville 6:05, 13:10 Gaggia 15:42 steaming.

@Oly55x

3 жыл бұрын

Honorable!

@AwesoemIan

3 жыл бұрын

Get this mans some up doots

@Stan_sprinkle

2 жыл бұрын

god's work... god's work

@its_justJohn

2 жыл бұрын

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

@rycliffmc

2 жыл бұрын

Love you

Quick DeLonghi Dedeica tips: 1) the drip try can be removed for taller cups, 2) keep single or double button pressed until desired water dispensed, it remembers it for next time, 3) hold the steam button for 10 seconds to enter settings mode, press single cup button, now choose temperature, single = cool, double = warm, steam = hot.

@rainbowevil

2 жыл бұрын

The third tip on temperature - is that the temperature for the steam wand or for the espresso water?

@TheExpeditionUK

2 жыл бұрын

@@rainbowevil it's the temperature of the espresso water, I have mine on "hot" (3rd button). i haven't seen anywhere that mentions the steam wand temperature.

@rainbowevil

2 жыл бұрын

@@TheExpeditionUK great, thanks for the reply! Was just wondering since you had to hold the steam button to set it.

@TheExpeditionUK

2 жыл бұрын

I made a list of ALL the settings and posted to one of the delonghi vids, here it is again though, might be useful: For Settings Menu Press and Hold Steam Button for 10 Seconds:- =============== Button 1 - Temperature (low / med / high) Button 2 - Water Hardness (soft / med / hard) Button 3 - Stand By (9m / 30m / 3h) Steam Dial + Button 1 - Reset Steam Dial + Button 2 - no function? Steam Dial + Button 3 - Descale Normal Functions =============== Press and Hold Button 1 to set water amount delivered on Single Cup Press and Hold Button 2 to set water amount delivered on Double Cup Press Button 3 for Steam

*_Timestamps:_* Start of *how the espresso shots review* will work: 07:18 Espresso with Machines: * 07:18 - Lelit Anna * 08:47 - DeLonghi Dedica * 10:32 - Rancilio Silvia * 11:53 - Sage Bambino Plus * 13:10 - Gaggia Classic Pro Grind setting per machine: 15:05 How the *Milk steaming review* will work: 15:10 *Steaming* with Machines: * 15:36 - Lelit Anna * 15:55 - DeLonghi Dedica * 16:11 - Rancilio Silvia * 16:35 - Sage Bambino Plus * 17:35 - Gaggia Classic Pro Start of *Conslusions* : 18:05 * 18:10 - Lelit Anna * 18:39 - DeLonghi Dedica * 19:06 - Rancilio Silvia * 19:58 - Sage Bambino Plus * 20:41 - Gaggia Classic Pro

@digitalnation2876

3 жыл бұрын

plus one for the effort, much love from Indonesia, ♥

@MrAposko

3 жыл бұрын

The unsung hero. We shall remeber you sir Chilly Vanilly!

@3rdeyewoke609

3 жыл бұрын

You are my hero!!

@fungus20009

3 жыл бұрын

Clearly you have way too much time on your hands, but love your work 👍

@chillyvanilly6352

3 жыл бұрын

@@fungus20009 quite the opposite, but I had lunch so figured, why not write it down while at it. Thank u though. #forthecommunity

Hey James , could we please turn auto-captions on? As a deaf person I find it very difficult to watch videos without captions, even if they are slightly off/inaccurate.

@spasecookee

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, please! It doesn't usually take this long to get the captions available.

@Mr-lw7gy

3 жыл бұрын

Same here!

@ts-tj9fi

3 жыл бұрын

Exactly! There is hardly ever any video on youtube without captions, even automatic. Big minus for not having it.

@clxma

3 жыл бұрын

I feel you guys, but I personally hate it when it's automatically turned on. KZread should have this an option for each user.

@sambarker2285

3 жыл бұрын

@@clxma Little confused by this comment. Are you referring to hating automatically transcribed captions? That I can understand, as they're often inaccurate - but they provide an extremely helpful guide for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing audiences. Or are you saying that you hate captions automatically showing up on videos when you don't want to see them? Because that is a user-adjustable feature. You can set your youtube settings to not show captions. But, and this is kind of an important but, if you are not a Deaf or Hard of Hearing person and the captions annoy you, you can easily turn them off. Deaf and Hard of Hearing people cannot simply turn their hearing back on when a video doesn't have captions.

Had the Gaggia Classic and it was one of the worst experiences of my life with a product. I wanted it primarily for the latte art. The foam was terrible. I tried replacing the wand for a better one, which was a headache to do, but it made no difference anyway. My bartender gf kept telling me that my lack of skill was to blame and asked to let her try it. After she tried it, she too concluded that my steam wand was cr*p. The coffee itself would come out barely warm. Apparently you have to coast the temp and warm up the cups just to get a good coffee. Someone pointed out that this machine was once good, but then version 2 came out and...yeah, that's what I had. This machine is still often recommended in consumer guides, so I thought I would write this public service warning, even though this is an old video.

@jasonburden7999

2 ай бұрын

Which year gaggia classic did you have?

For anyone looking at the Dedica I think it is worth noting that there is now an upgraded version of it (ec885) which comes with a normal steam wand and a normal tamper. As other people have already mentioned, Dedica has programmable buttons, where we can adjust the brewing temp and the amount of liquid coming from the single and double espresso. Also, the machine is highly moddable (replacing the portafilter, adding the pressure gauge, changing the spring to mod the pressure) which makes it quite versatile for the money. With all that, it still remains fairly cheap so if you break something the loss won't be as big as with more expensive machines.

@lukedgos

Жыл бұрын

Yeah. I thought about buying an exhibition unit without a porta. That already saves some money and goes a long way toward helping you get in the 'if it breaks, it breaks' mood. Does the OPV mod improve the taste? What about light roasts after you reduce the pressure?

@siruspan

Жыл бұрын

Older/lower model ec685 can be had for half the price of the new model on sales at the moment.

@mangolollipop_

Жыл бұрын

I randomly found this video and I bought my parents a Dedica as a random present. I didn't like the tamper that it came with. I would've love some more added weight. I like the touch of the weighty tamp but it's the barista part of me coming out. I like it fits the tiny part of their kitchen but I myself will buy the more expensive Breville machine for myself as I'm more of a coffee geek. It takes me so long to make coffee. I spent about good 10 mins doing it 3 coffees, which annoys me because I'm used to the quicker espresso machine. It's good to know that dedica is a moddable brand.

@cmcguire7901

Жыл бұрын

Do you find that the high temperature setting on the EC885 gets hot enough for a quality light roast? I got it as a gift and upgrade from a cheaper/older delonghi that didn’t have any temperature adjustment so even with bottomless PF the light roast shots weren’t the best. But either way the new dedica’s steam wand is a pretty big upgrade and the new drip tray has a lot more clearance

@kwccoin3115

Жыл бұрын

Not that model but have at least 5 times the portafiller came out.

James "big ol' hands" Hoffman

@jedi2254409

3 жыл бұрын

Not a bad trait 😏

@Georgios_Rex

3 жыл бұрын

@@jedi2254409 The Hoffman Hog

@animeshjain4539

3 жыл бұрын

James "Fancy Man" Hoffman

@bradleydowis1324

3 жыл бұрын

@@Georgios_Rex Let's pretend this comment never happened.

@tolga1cool

3 жыл бұрын

Never realised but you're right... His hands are really big

At 12 minutes when he throws the filter, my jaw dropped. So much drama. So perfectly timed. Beautiful James moment.

@MohanKumar-xn9vr

3 жыл бұрын

I honestly would have liked to hear the filter clatter and him just stare at the camera

@BillPeschel

3 жыл бұрын

@@MohanKumar-xn9vr It needed the sound of a window breaking :)

@Stan_sprinkle

2 жыл бұрын

you oversold that a little bit. It wasn't very dramatic. At all.

I've had a DeLonghi Dedica for around 6 years, and obviously I am happy with it (or I wouldn't have had it for 6 years:). I recall it took some fiddling to get the brew I wanted, and I ended up with a fairly fine grind using a rich, dark bean. The only real problem I had was finding a frothing jug small enough to be able to submerge the end of the frothing wand into the milk. I normally have a latte, but from time to time I'll make an espresso or Americano, or even a Cappuccino. I bought it when I wasn't exactly flush with money, and since I can afford something better, I've been looking around (which is how I ended up here). But every time I look at a 'better' espresso machine, I realize that I'm happy with what I have. And that's the whole point, isn't it?

@80goal

2 жыл бұрын

I'm interested in the dedica. How hot the coffee shot you get? (No milk).

@AriKolbeinsson

2 жыл бұрын

@@80goal I haven't measured the temp, but it has 3 settings for temperature (by some interesting button presses)

@TeodorAngelov

2 жыл бұрын

@@80goal Around 70-75 C. Tried all the temp settings but got the same result.

@MultiBugggs

2 жыл бұрын

@@80goal you can temperature surf by pressing the steam button, wait a few seconds and press either of the brew buttons before the steam button stop flashing. The thermoblock will heat up for steaming milk but since you kind of force it back to pulling a shot, the temperature of the water out of the group head will be higher than default settings.

@PhotoAndersHald

2 жыл бұрын

Also it seems james missed the fact that you can remove/lower the drip tray for a bigger cup.

There should definitely be a merch T-shirt that says “I’m a fancy man”

@SteveDave29

2 ай бұрын

No slight... does that mean a ponce??

I have the Delonghi and she's hurt by your words, she treats me well every morning. yeah we're from the cheap side of town, but she looks good in red and we don't drink milk any hoo. x

@TheCelia777

3 жыл бұрын

Would you recommend the dedica one? I will love to have that one, because it will be me first espresso machine and is slim perfect for my counter space

@kirstynunez8061

3 жыл бұрын

Celia Náter hello, go for it! I love my dedica so much

@dachhu

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheCelia777 drinking some espresso from it now tastes good to me. It's reasonably priced, works well and is very stylish.

@TheCelia777

3 жыл бұрын

Kirsty Barlisan thank you! I hope I can learn how to used it right 😅 how to get the perfect grounds and how to pressed, I have so much to learn

@Zulualfadelta

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheCelia777 I've used the Sage and the Dedica, I would 100% get the Bambino Plus. It's outstanding and the auto-milk capability makes life, so so much easier.

I have owned a Rancilio Silvia for 10 years and estimate I’ve made about 7,000 espresso shots in this time. With the exception of having to replace the gasket in the brew head, it’s operated flawlessly without servicing for this entire time. I feel this was a great investment and would recommend this machine to anyone tired of the endless cycle of disposable household technology.

@lukedgos

Жыл бұрын

I dread the cost, but if it can outlast three Dedicas and makes twice better coffee, then it has every right to cost six time as much, figuratively speaking (and is going to cost less anyway).

@conannanoc8768

Жыл бұрын

while i understand where you are coming from, i have had a delonghi nespresso for over 10 years, pulled over 10.000 shots with it, and they day it died, i didn´t even bother to replace it and bought another one for 1/5th the cost of the Rancilio. I don´t intend to imply that the nespresso is better, or that the delonghi is a better machine than the Rancilio. Only, that people trying to send you these machines turn the most common attributes (durability) into unique selling points...

@Floor7586

11 ай бұрын

Thank you Peter, I want something really worth spending money on so that was usefull. Question: what kind of bean grinder do you use with the machine? I am new to making coffee and am not really sure what works together.

@imdeadinside792

10 ай бұрын

Yea I’ve got one as well and I love it

@KAIJUCHOMPS

8 ай бұрын

I have the very same machine, gifted to me by my grandfather after he graduated to a commercial machine and I've been having trouble lately with the portafilter no longer fully twisting into place. Is that the gasket that's gone? I know this is an old comment but I hope you see it!

It is now September of 2023. The pandemic is over, and I work in an office 2x a week. I sit here drinking awful office coffee while I slowly convince myself to buy a 1Zpresso Q2 S hand grinder and an Aeropress so that I can have actual good coffee while at work.

I just really want to think you for putting this series of espresso machine comparisons together. While it ultimately helped me decide that I am *not* ready for my own machine, all these videos helped me 'dial in' what I will be looking for when I am ready :)

I bought a Lelit Anita with a PID and I’m absolutely in love with it. It was the most cost effective way to get a PID machine and it has been a workhorse so far. Hugely recommended.

@William_Saint-Agne

3 жыл бұрын

I've had my Lelit PL41TEM (with PID) for 4 and a half years now (~8/10 cups a week, half of them being cappuccinos, around 2 cups at a time) and it still runs great : no leaking, no pressure loss, no gasket change. It's pretty sturdy.

@AndreaMitrani

3 жыл бұрын

William Saint-Agne fantastic machines.

@Poraqui

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, Lelit are very good and underated. Interesting price. Incredible temperature stability. Hopefully soon a MaraX will be on my counter.

@RiskyGambit

3 жыл бұрын

Totally agree with this. Got a 41TEM for my birthday this year and it has really been a great little machine for me to finally get really into coffee as a hobby.

@faballard

3 жыл бұрын

I think I have the same : 57mm / PID and pressure gauge. I hesited between a 58mm or a PID (more or less the same price) and I choose the PID. I'm also very happy with it, even if I have the feeling not to master it very well. Probably because I drink mainly single espresso shots ? (I've read it was a bit more difficult to make...)

My thoughts whenever a reviewer says "hey I'm biased" is.... no you're far from biased -- and that's why I, although I'm not yet a coffee hobbyist, am so interested in watching your vidoes!

@Mentocthemindtaker

3 жыл бұрын

To be fair, everyone is biased. Good reviewers are the ones who acknowledge and are transparent about their bias and why.

I'm still rocking a Silvia v2. Had nothing but great performance from it. Simple, built like a tank, and easy to use.

The Sage Bambino is way better than what most people get out of it, in my opinion. You can get great results, but you need a more advanced setup. I'm also on a lighter roast, like you, but with a fine grind on a Eureka Specialita that costs more than the machine, admittedly, a non-pressurized basket, a bottomless portafilter, and a distribution tool, you can get exceptional results. You just have to find the right combo, knowing that the machine delivers a quality flow. I ordered a puck screen to test if I can still have some fun (didn't get it yet), but I have to say that with my current setup, I'm really not far from perfection. I think espresso machines are generally overpriced, this one is the opposite. A good grinder makes all the difference.

Once again, sense and sensibility. You've relieved the 9 bars on pressure being in lockdown for 7 weeks now (Melbourne). You're such a breath of fresh air. Thanks :-)

@maxl178

3 жыл бұрын

We've still gotta wait till the end of the month :(

@simontrusler5748

3 жыл бұрын

Max L yeah, bummer that. Just me and my Aeropress to keep me company (oh and my wife and son...but my Aeropress, my Aeropress!!!)

@gabrielsinclair5941

3 жыл бұрын

Only 7 weeks? It's felt like an age. We'll make it though.

@kainewhiteway2346

3 жыл бұрын

Simon Trusler as a fellow Melbournian I was hoping James would do this. I have also been using an areopress for around 8 years but have just changed to the V60 (based off this channel) and I must say it’s a superior experience. What is do miss is the ability to make a decent coffee milk drink at home.

@simontrusler5748

3 жыл бұрын

Kaine Whiteway thanks for the advice. I’ve been pondering whether to get a V60 so it’s good to hear that it’s a superior experience. I’ll starting checking them out 👍

I've had my Silvia for 12 years - while the faff factor is real (e.g. need to learn temperature surfing) it doesn't take long to get it to acceptably reliable. For me, the best "mod" you can make is getting a better grinder. I started with the (Rancilio) Rocky and I've used a Baratza Vario and Eureka Atom (both of those were loaners from friends), now grinding with a Niche Zero. To eliminate the current level of faff in a new machine requires a pretty massive jump in price (happy to be wrong here). The quirks of this machine teach you a lot about making espresso and while I certainly get that many people will want to buy their way past most of these things it's been a great part of my coffee journey!

@Dus3826

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, got a silvia with pid and a eureka specialata, quite happy with this setup :)

@knewhousen2556

3 жыл бұрын

Dus3826 got the same and love Auber pid und eureka

@geoffplywood6112

3 жыл бұрын

One major improvement to Silvia since your machine was made is they reduced brew pressure to 10 bar. Early machines like yours and mine, it was around 12 bar, requiring a fine grind and making the machine tricky . .

@thibodaux3424

3 жыл бұрын

Couldn't agree more!

@johnsaxontube

3 жыл бұрын

Right! How much more money would you have to spend to hit the next level up? $1000?

After viewing this outstanding review, I've made my decision... I'll stick with my Moka Pots for the time being and see what comes out down the road. Your MP tutorials have me producing excellent not-quite-espressos, so there's no great rush. Thanks James.

After watching this video got myself Sage Bambino Plus for making cappuccinos and I'm very happy about it. I was contemplating buying an espresso machine for a while now and pandemic was the final push to finally get one. And I must say - Sage Bambino is beginner friendly indeed. As a beginner I struggle with frothing milk manually, but with Sage Bambino I can get perfectly silky foam half-automatically. I begin on auto frothing (jug placed on the machine) and then lift the jug at the end of frothing to roll the milk. Works super well with whole milk. Also if you don't have a grinder yet, the pressurized portafilter enables you making enjoyable espresso for milk drinks even when using cheap pre-ground coffee (Bambino comes both with pressurized and non-pressurized portafilters). The overall coffee making process is also surprisingly fast (but this is coming from a person who typically drinks pour-overs). Now I'm ready for the next step - good manual grinder and quality beans :)

I have a LELIT PL41TEM. for about 500$ I got a PID, a preasure gauge and a beautiful machine. Yes it is 57mm but rocking it for 2 years and love the machine. The company definetly rocks in this price range.

@johnsaxontube

3 жыл бұрын

Me too. It was a big step up from my previous Gaggia machine, for not much more money.

You reminded me just how much I’d love to have an espresso machine and also just how much I don’t want to have an espresso machine. Great review.

Got my Rancilio in 2008 and has used it daily without problems, so the build quality is indeed very good. Everything from case to boiler and wiring is heavy duty. The older model has slightly different buttons and portafilter handle, but is otherwise identical to the current design as far as I can tell.

I inherited a Sylvia from my uncle, which he bought at least 15 years ago. It’s an incredible machine and still brews great coffee (even after being transported across the country multiple times)! I’ve always been frustrated w the temp control, so this was affirming. You’ve inspired me to finally take the plunge and modify!

@lonestarr1490

Жыл бұрын

Go on then. You definitely won't void your warranty :D

@timor64

5 ай бұрын

Dramatically improved the whole experience. A PID on Ebay with full instructions was pretty easy to install - took about an hour.

Delonghi Owner for 1,5 years opinion: I think the Delonghi is worth the money and what it delivers! Think of your average consumption per day, and now justify it with the price of the machine ;-) If you are like me, drinking 2-3 doulbe-espressos a day, then your price point is around that machine (or lets say around ~400€) "Prosumers" or "Hobby-Baristas" usually buy machines above 1000€ because as you said, the machines between 500-1000 require tinkering, expansions and awkward installments in order to bring "maybe" the results you are expecting (now question yourself to what you are comparing). This awkward price category 500-1000 ist just inconvenient imho

12:08 is probably the manliest portafilter slap I've ever experienced.

@SuperOCHomes

3 жыл бұрын

Lock and loaded, "make my day"

I've had the Delonghi Dedica for 5 years now, it performs and holds up very well. It's also extremely simple to use and clean.

@lukedgos

Жыл бұрын

Have you been especially careful with it, like meticulous cleaning, never exceeding the prescribed dose or too fine grind, etc.? I'm kind of scared of DeLonghis due to how fragile they seem and how often they leak, judging by Amazon reviews. I bought an Icon several years ago but had to return it right away due to some massive problems.

@thekupus1

Жыл бұрын

@@lukedgos We are 3 years in with our Dedica, and we haven't been especially careful with it, but it has been working like a swiss watch so far. No leaks, nothing breaking yet. It has paid off several times over.

@mabid6713

Жыл бұрын

did you have to replace any of the parts? like to get good frothing or espresso shot?

Having binge watched about 20 videos it is only now dawning on me the man has taken at least 5 shots and sure the delivery gets a little faster but the hand is brain surgeon steady. Thoroughly impressed.

keeping eye contact while drinking the shots... feels a touch intimate and aggressive at the same time. I think I like it

@georgesnow5041

3 жыл бұрын

I was thinking the same thing haha

I got the Rancilio a few years ago. I chose it because it looks like it hasn't been changed in years, which is a good indicator of long term support and longevity in general. I just want to say thank you for talking about it's drawbacks, I have noticed some brews don't come out as well, and I'm definitely going to try the temp purge thing before pulling my shots! Also, now I'm thinking about a new basket for it. Pretty sure 1200 comments in, no one's going to be reading this. 🤣 But just in case, thanks!

@mariobortoli1457

Жыл бұрын

I’ve read it. Thanks for your input, even though I can’t even buy one in my country lol

@PMTcommenter

Жыл бұрын

I read it and appreciate your input!

@kwccoin3115

Жыл бұрын

I read it as well. Do you do in the future any mod?

@AlanW

Жыл бұрын

@@kwccoin3115 I haven't. Thinking about getting the Eagle One, despite the drawbacks of price and electronics.

I dont even drink coffee but I'm hypnotised by this guy

@djentlover

3 жыл бұрын

I hated the taste of coffee until my current age 28, but now that I got a grinder and an aeropress (thanks to James), and I know how to get the sweetness and fruity complexity ("taste of origin") out of the beans, I have to say it's a pretty exciting world.

My Sage Bambino Plus is a great balance between price, speed, ease of use, and high quality shots. They got it right! I did upgrade to a bottomless portafilter, IMS baskets and a crema adjustable tamper. Paired with the Sette 270 grinder and a scale, I’m making some delicious coffee. Your channel is hilarious and full of great information… thank you!

@ashkanpower

Жыл бұрын

Yes, you can get very close to very delicious shots, but in lighter roast coffees, I still get a little more sourness that I like.

@Ashhong1

Жыл бұрын

What is a crema adjustable tamper?

@momoisstrange

10 ай бұрын

@@Ashhong1An adjustable tamper/wedge distributor by the brand Crema, a useful all in one tamping product

@samjohns3227

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for those tips, I'll upgrade like you did though I only make lattes so not sure if I'd notice a difference? I used to have an Alessi with built in grinder years ago, loved it...but I love even more the fact with the bambino it has the automated milk function so I'm lazy but satisfied now! Really need to get a grinder and scale though...

@anamcgugan6165

Ай бұрын

What IMS basket did you find fit

Had a dedica for about 3 years now, I definitely didn't know what I was doing when I got it (I probably still don't now), I'm now all too aware of its shortfalls but £400-500 was a very intimidating price at that point for me, have to say its done me really well, I'm looking forward to an upgrade down the line but I'll look back on it with fondness. Having had it in a small kitchen, I definitely think the small form factor is a selling point for a lot of people.

@TMDub88

3 жыл бұрын

This 100%. The Dedica was a budget decision for me. With a good grinder, it can make decent espresso shots. I’m also eventually going to upgrade but for now the dedica will do just fine.

@Trumpetblast92

3 жыл бұрын

I used one for quite a while before moving to a Breville Barista Express and it was exactly what I wanted and needed at the time! I learned to make my drinks, I enjoyed espressos/lattes at home, and saved enough money vs. the cafe that I could afford the nicer machine down the line!

@01banksjon

3 жыл бұрын

Any pointers on replacement baskets for the Dedica? I'm using the pressurised porter filter ATM and interested to try the difference between pressurised Vs non pressurised - (I have a decent hand grinder so should be ok from that end... I think..)

@TMDub88

3 жыл бұрын

Jonathan Banks I don’t think they have “fancy” unpressurized that come in 51mm (someone correct me) as they do in commercial sizes (58mm). I bought one off eBay and it works just fine. Maybe $10. One hitch is the black plastic piece that James mentioned he broke. It leaves a screw hole open that espresso comes out of when you pull as shot. Fix this by keeping the screw from the black plastic piece and getting a washer and nut to seal that screw hole. Easy fix and much nicer presentation.

@philliptrzcinski5243

3 жыл бұрын

@@01banksjon www.amazon.co.uk/MagiDeal-Coffee-Pressurized-Breville-Delonghi/dp/B01JRH3DMS I don't know enough to know if this is a "good" basket, but it's doing the job for me, taking out the plastic bit is easy enough. I've found with a hario hand grinder, the steps in grind size are big enough that it's a very delicate balance between proper extraction and choking the machine, but still finding it's an improvement over the pressurised baskets and I'm learning how to do things "properly". Good luck!

literally waited years for this. well done

Here in Canada the Silvia is almost twice the price of the Gaggia so it's a no brainer, and there's a really simple workaround to get more pressure out of the wand, you just start 10 seconds before the light comes on. I also upgraded to a VST basket and the IMS screen which instantly improved the quality of my shots, I'll upgrade the portafilter at some point as I agree the handle feels cheap. I think I'm ready to get the OPV mod, it looks easy enough to install. It's a great little machine, I'm very happy with it.

James, I have a tiny kitchen and brought the delonghi 2-3 years ago. There are some temperature increase settings which I found important. I now have brought a bottomless portafilter and swapped the steam wand for a small rancillio wand. Very valid comment about the “coffee as a hobby”. Lockdown has taken this “hobby” to new levels. I now have the rokGC grinder and dialling that in. I would love a “prosumer” machine review as I guess that’s my next step in the journey...

As an owner of the Delonghi dedica, I find Jame’s assessment of it spot on. Yes it requires two hands to load the group handle and Yes the steam wand is infuriating (which I recommend modifying it with a Silvia replacement). But as for the cup size....the foot/drip tray is removable for larger cups. I got it for price and foot size.

@0oDenniso0

3 жыл бұрын

You can also adjust water temperature for the shot, but i guess he didn't have time to review all the manuals in proper depth.

@truckerallikatuk

3 жыл бұрын

Same, my first machine is a Dedica. It's a neat little machine, but limited.

@andyw5238

3 жыл бұрын

Agreed, and cutting the portafilter to make it bottomless helps alot to get the purest taste possible (albeit messy if improperly tamped).

@nikotuba

3 жыл бұрын

i bought new portafilter with naked basket on aliexpress and it changed my morning cups forever. also, you need to preheat it before making coffee (i run it twice before pouring shot)

@PsychedelicKen

3 жыл бұрын

Felt a bit burned by James' review of the Dedica, but on reflection I do agree with a lot of what he said. It is my first espresso machine that doesn't use capsules, and I'm looking forward to one day upgrading to a better machine, but first I will give modding it a go. I have used it for over a year now and really do enjoy using it. Thanks for the wand recommendation, and I'll look into a new basket too.

The Reddit r/espresso and home-barista communities will probably thank you for providing them with a link to provide 100 times a day to answer this very question. In terms of the review itself - you are absolutely spot on and really provided a comprehensive assessment of the pros and cons of each machine. I really like that you covered the modding vs out-of-the-box features, given the hobbyist nature of espresso-making. As usual, fantastic work!

@c.j.c350

3 жыл бұрын

Let's be honest, they'll link a Hoffman video even if it's completely irrelevant

@fstjeanm

3 жыл бұрын

@@c.j.c350 Hoffman videos are never irrelevant ;-)

@Wolfy428

3 жыл бұрын

Yep lol, I'm here because of r/espresso

My frustrations with my DeLonghi brought me to the channel. I’m now in the process of upgrading, this guide is extremely helpful 👍

I have the delonghi dedica since 2 years back. I am a former barista but had a limited budget when buying it. I modified it by switching the steamwand (to the rancillo) which was a little bit tricky but the end result is great! The delonghi has the perk of being a cheap machine, which makes modifying it not as scary as for example modifying the rancillo och gaggia🤷‍♀️ so far I have to say I am very satisfied with my delonghi ✨

@lukedgos

Жыл бұрын

I took the French-press route myself. Or rather what I have is a dedicated frothing jug that's modelled on a French press. It cost me less than fifteen euros, and I can get a full jug of yoghurt-silky micro-foam in no time, and I'm certified co-ordination impaired. A former barista I'm sure could do some amazing things with this little piece of equipment.

@VansteigerJr

11 ай бұрын

hello ! found your commnent very useful, I want to enter to the coffee world, and im comparing the delonghui with the krups virtuoso, have found better comments about the delonghi, is it too dificult to change the steamwand?

@laowai2000

9 ай бұрын

With the fast warm up with the Dedica and the nice shots I can pull now with a great grinder, find it tough to justify upgrading this machine. Love how I can get out of bed in morning and have a shot or two ready very quickly.

@laowai2000

7 ай бұрын

There are now clip-on steam wands available if you want to avoid pulling machine down. Not that tough a job and there are youtube tutorials.@@VansteigerJr

@laowai2000

7 ай бұрын

Good to hear. I find it hard to justify upgrading this machine. With a good grinder, replacement wand really happy with the open basket shots getting from this machine.

Absolutely loving my Bambino. Mine came with a non-pressurized basket included. And it's worth to note that the machine heats up and it's ready to use in 3 seconds!

@MrPhilgriffiths

3 жыл бұрын

Same here. Keen to know though if James used the Sage unpressurised basket or something from another company? Also useful to know if he took out the plastic insert in the portafilter - I did on mine.

@jameshoffmann

3 жыл бұрын

It was a Sage standard 54mm

@TheNotEvilPenguin

3 жыл бұрын

@@Abbrahan Another vote for loving my Bambino. What James said matches my experience - I've had more labour-intensive machines that were capable of making better espresso, but now I get consistently good coffee every morning with minimal fuss. I'd definitely get unpressureized baskets immediately though.

@GameDevSPS

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheNotEvilPenguin where from?

@thomasmayer9511

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheNotEvilPenguin where did you get the non-pressurized baskets? I can't find them anywhere..

I can absolutely recommend the De Longhi Dedica. I bought one just before lockdown and because if it I've discovered the world of espresso. It's the perfect machine to make one realise that a) they enjoy espresso and b) they need a better machine...

I have had the Dedica for about 3 years and am very happy with it. The coffee is much better than I get from the local cafe's. It's got a small footprint so is great if space is limited. Yes you do have to hold the machine across the top when fitting the basket which means you can't store anything on the top platform but I have never accidentally pressed any of the buttons. It can also take larger cups. When the drip tray is removed you have a flat base with a stainless steel insert. It would mean the base would have to be wiped clean each time you use it. If like me you only have one or two coffees in the morning that wouldn't be an issue. I never use the milk thingy (apologies James) so I can't comment on that.

@antonsrandomstuff

3 ай бұрын

Have the same machine, but the sides are painted metal instead of plastic. Love the small footprint. The milk thingy works fine, but you have to pull it apart and rinse after each use.

“I’m a fancy man.” love you, James!

Gaggia you've got to temp-surf the steaming, too. After I've pulled a shot I switch to steam then turn the wand on as the temperature builds. Once it's giving out a good amount of steam BUT the light (indicating it's 100 degs, and heating element turns off) hasn't come on yet, I start steaming and finish the milk ideally before that light comes on. That way you start at a good steaming temperature but the heating element remains on throughout the steam and your pressure doesn't nosedive halfway through.

I have the Bambino and I'm super happy with it, though the point about sour shots is a fair one. I've gotten some mindbendingly good coffees out of it, but those are rare. Most of the time, it makes a perfectly serviceable espresso (most of the time I'm making espresso-tonics and americanos). And the milk steaming really is that impressive for such a small machine. That's the thing I feel like didn't get touched on here is just how teensy the Bambino is. It's SO small. For apartment/small kitchen types, it really is a godsend. I wouldn't have space for the Gaggia or the Rancilio anywhere in my apartment, but the Bambino fits beautifully onto my bar with space left over for a mat, tamper, and knock box. That's a huge, huge upside - being only a little bigger than that barely-even-a-real-espresso machine little DeLonghi but still capable of making really good coffee. And the water tank is easy to maneuver in and out of the little spot it's nestled into. Bottom line is I happily use the Bambino every day - frequently more than once, and often pulling multiple shots in a row to make bigger lattes or coffees for myself and my girlfriend - and it's a pleasure to use. Does it make perfect espresso every time? No. But I'm no barista anyway. It makes perfectly good espresso (unless I botch the bed prep), it fits in my apartment like a glove, I drew my first latte art with the milk that came from it, and the buttons really are very satisfying. I'm very happy with it.

@jn8819

3 жыл бұрын

What dose do you find works best?

@lewiskaminski2836

3 жыл бұрын

@@jn8819 18-19 grams. Depends on the coffee really.

@egeywedgie3

3 жыл бұрын

I have the Bambino as well and agree with everything you said. I was evaluating machines at this price point for a couple months and landed on it due to size and features. Another thing that wasn't addressed was heat up time. The Bambino is ready to pull a shot in 3 seconds which to me is also a godsend for every day use. No turning it on and walking away for minutes so everything heats up. No needing to spend extra time to surf temp and cool everything down so I can pull another shot. I've also found a decent sweet spot with my grinder and basket prep to get some well balanced shots from lighter roasts depending on the coffee. Also has maintenance indicators when you need to run clean and descale cycles. All in all I couldn't be happier. Lots of bang for the buck.

@jn8819

3 жыл бұрын

@@egeywedgie3 I'm still struggling to pull good shots, they are too acidic. But I am just drinking espressos or long blacks, no milk drinks. I've tried lots of different types of coffees from light to dark roasts. I'm wondering if it's because the water doesn't get hot enough to extract the coffee properly. What kind of dose do you use and what's your extraction time?

@LeonardTan

3 жыл бұрын

I have the Bambino too and bought a naked portafilter and additional single wall basket. Works really well for me. Quick, less messy and nice Americano and latte. 👍👍👍

I had a really basic pressurized basket machine a long time ago and it worked for me for a bit, when I was 16 I got the Silvia and it was such a big step up. I did have an issue where I burnt out the heating coil and you wouldn’t believe how simple the Silvia is on the inside. It’s no wonder people have come up with PID controllers with how simple the electronics are.

The Renaissance Dedica is all respects the same as my recent purchase of the Calphalon Espresso Machine I purchased from Amazon. I’ve wanted an Espresso machine for years and this is the first time I was able to get one. As a novice 71 year old coffee drinker, I really do enjoy my first machine and it does taste good to my untrained taste buds. Thank you for your videos I’m enjoying them and learning a lot about coffee.

James, your channel has fundamentally changed my life. I am a confirmed tea-consumer, eastern style, high-quality teas only... now, however, I am an occasional coffe-taster, because you've helped me to find a new hobby. We've purchased a Lelit Anna with a PID, I learned A LOT from your videos, and now every morning I make delicious espresso for my wife, who is very satisfied with the result. And she is a barista! You, sir, made that happen. Thank you!

James: "i'l be stirring with the fancy teaspoons, because i'm a fancy man" me: "mhmm, yes i am also fancy" i think to myself as i stir my iced coffee with a straw

@leopoldbloom4835

3 жыл бұрын

Metal, glass or bamboo straw? For the plastic ones are a no-go for fancy men. 😉

@bark28

3 жыл бұрын

@@leopoldbloom4835 Metal, always metal for fancy men.

@leopoldbloom4835

3 жыл бұрын

BarkFu Agreed, though with a glass straw real men can see what they are sucking on.

@tallalexander

3 жыл бұрын

😂

I got the Sage recently, and I got it specifically as a "learner machine"! I'm focusing on the shot itself at the moment, not having to worry about things like temperature surfing. Once I'm more confident with the shot, I'm hoping to switch over to frothing technique, and while I have no doubt that I might want to upgrade to a nicer setup in the future, it really helps making this hobby feel more approachable?

@zonkex

Жыл бұрын

Having a PID, i guess you won't need the temperature surfing for this one. Enjoy your sage!

I just had to comment, the quality of your video and the level of detail you have added here, is amazing! Thank you! I was looking into buying the Gaggia Classic, so this has been very helpful, I didn't think people actually do modifications on their coffee machines, this is very interesting. Thank you again!

I have had my Miss Sylvia for five years love it, temperature surfing and got used to it and it works well. Probably going to install a PID.

@nbougeard

3 жыл бұрын

I did (a meCoffee) - I recommend taking the plunge.

I have been using the Sage (Breville here in US) for a month now and it's amazing. I don't doubt James that the other ones may be better if you want to tinker, but I am in the group he said that just wants a decent cup of Espresso / Cappuccino without having to actually study up on the hobby itself. To my unsophisticated palette, they are pretty tasty.

@mvadu

2 жыл бұрын

I was contemplating between bambino and bambino plus as my first espresso machine. The auto froth wand was the deal sealer for me. I like cappuccino but don't want to add milk frothing as one of my hobbies. I already have enough in that list.

@SenorKristobbalVLog

2 жыл бұрын

I'm feeling like this kind of person too, what grinder do you use with it please?

@Mnannola

2 жыл бұрын

@@SenorKristobbalVLog I use the Breville Smart Grinder Pro. Seems to do the trick, I use it for both Cappuccino / Latte in this machine as well as grinding coarser for my drip coffee machine. I haven't really had any problems with it at all and I have been using it for about a year. I know a lot of people advocate for getting two different grinders if you want to do drip coffee plus espresso, but I have been happy with the results from just the one grinder.

@SenorKristobbalVLog

2 жыл бұрын

@@Mnannola Thanks, I'm not looking to spend the earth but to spend the earth. I just want decent coffee that is ethical for the environment and the growers. I don't need the absolute perfect coffee honing my skills on complex equipment. Two grinders would just be going to far for that goal.

@sandramclean7178

2 жыл бұрын

I had a Breville for 10 years, had it on storage for a year and I think it killed it, because it wouldn't pump and an online tech was of no help either, on the hunt for a new one and because it worked so well for 10 years I would get another

I have had the Bambino plus for around 1.5 year. I have been always using a naked portfilter. I confirm that it is great for making cappuccino: you really need to be very good at making the foam to beat the automated settings. Now I am buying a Dedica for a kitchen where space is a key selection criterion.

i own the Rancilio Silvia V3 for almost ten years. just changed the group head seal and shower net, the VST filter baket, installed an Auber PID to it, set the temp at 104C and the espresso shots are now very consistant. now i am a avery happy man. learning a lot from your channel. thank you.

I got the SAGE and I really like it. On days when you just want to get your coffee the pre-infusion + pressurized basket + pid temperature control + semi-automatic coffee and milk just gets you an easy and good coffee. BUT on day where you want to experiment, just change the basket to a bottomless, manually time you espresso and milk. Its awesome! I am missing the features to change brewing temperature and pressure though.. but like for that money? I am still impressed after a year of using it!

@bigglyguy8429

3 жыл бұрын

I'm back here because my Bambino has died already, after just 7 months! Pissed off with it. Forever demanding to be cleaned, then the cleaning cycle quit working, then buttons unresponsive, now it's overheating and leaking,. Now I'm trying to decide if I should go really cheap, so I don't care if only another 7 months, or get something more basic but better quality. Time to rewatch this video...

He is spot on, my Rancilio is built like an Army tank. I bought it 7 years ago, refurbished, from Whole Latte Love with a new Rocky grinder. Both have worked like a charm, nothing has broken, all still plodding along just fine for my level. I pull one shot a day, why do I need more? All of those look like they could work for a first machine.

@kemikade

3 жыл бұрын

LindySellsHomes I’m almost the same: bought a used machine 5 years ago with a new Rocky and they’ve been rock solid. Temp surfing isn’t a big deal, once you learn how to manage the temps it’s no extra hassle. I agree with james on the steam pressure, I’ve blown the milk clean out of the jug a couple times when I was learning how to steam.

The little Delonghi can be improved a lot. Given modifications were mentioned for some of the more expensive machines, they should be mentioned for the cheapest as well. Firstly, the steam wand in it's original form is rubbish, no questions there. But simply removing the outer sleeve, putting a cable tie around the silicone nozzle underneath to stop it blowing off, you can greatly improve the control of steaming. Makes cleaning a lot easier as well. However, very cheaply, you can replace the original steam wand with that of the Rancilio if you're willing to pull the machine apart. So within half an hour, you can remove the worst steam wand in this review and replace it with the exact same one which was rated best in this review. As for the pressurised basket. You can readily buy bottomless portafilter for the Dedica, or you can modify the original to take a larger non-pressurised basket. The internal plastic can be ground down if you wish, or simply chop the bottom off and make it bottomless. Once thats done, you can reprogram the water temp and brew times and dial it all in as best as possible that this machine will allow. With all that, you're going to still have a machine that's cheaper than the rest in this test and give you a machine which would certainly stop you wanting to upgrade to any of these in this review as there'd be no benefit. If you were to upgrade it, you'd be doing a real upgrade to something significantly better and still be left with a small machine which is fantastic to pack and take away with you on trips or hide in your office whilst everyone else is stuck with the communal pod machine.

@ramblr8161

Жыл бұрын

it's also completely possible to bypass buying a new basket entirely and just "depressurising" the stock baskets. I just drilled the hole in the middle of the basket larger with a 4mm drillbit (this does only work with the EC685 that has the removable portafilter shower screen, however.)

@legendofthepeach

Жыл бұрын

Why is the pressurised basket not good?

@Stojobre

Жыл бұрын

@@legendofthepeach so I just bought the machine and when I tried to get a shot with espresso level ground coffee it would keep overflowing and stopping the pull. This made me grind my coffee less fine which then gave me little to no crema. Though the next day I found out that you can, as @Ramblr said above, widen the tiny hole in the bottom strainer which then allowed me to use a finer ground again that gives a great taste and crema

@legendofthepeach

Жыл бұрын

@@Stojobre ok thanks I’m no coffee expert, but I do love a good cup I’ve just been using the delongi machine from here. I figured though the basket is specially made to create the pressure required to pull a good shot no?

@Stojobre

Жыл бұрын

@@legendofthepeach for store bought ground coffee yes but if you want to use Espresso level ground coffee (finer) you will need to widen it , but it’s totally safe I believe it’s also explained in the manual. just grab a tiny nail or something and widen it for the amount you can see is „pre drawn „

Hello James, got the De Longhi 685 (?) last year before I upgraded to a Dual Boiler machine. You are right with your estimation in my eyes - but: you can adjust brewing temp by using the menue. Combined with a bit temp surfing and your portafilter mod there is an "ok" espresso possible. For normal purposes steaming is good enough. Latte Art is not intended ;-) Build quality is also ok for this money. Starting time is vety fast, so you can also use it for making hot chocolate. The milk steamer isnt very easy to clean, due to the plastic parts. Cheers and thx for your excellent professional and understandable vids! Greets from Germany, Fx

The rancilio was the brand of espresso machine we used at the coffee shop I worked at and after getting the hang of stretching and frothing milk it was always great!! It made really nice foam for cappuccinos too which I would always make on my breaks haha

i use the silvia now it is my first machine ,had a steep learning curve but wouldn't trade for anything else.

A tremendously helpful video that I've watched several times, thank you. I'm moved from the Dedica equivalent (Smeg), to a Rancilio Silvia (V6). I'm loving the solid build, getting better extraction and power. I bought this knowing that temperature surfing is something I'll have to put up with until I install a PID. Shot-to-shot consistency is a challenge due to temperature. Steaming power is amazing - something like the two group Wega I learned on nearly 20 years ago - improving the flat whites my wife enjoys. So far it's exceeded my expectations, and seems a great place to learn and explore on my way to an e61 machine.

I've used a Delonghi Dedica that I was given for free for about a year now, and yes the milk wand only does bubbly frothed milk and would turn over half my jug into non liquid by the end. However, to get around this I accidentally lost the silver tip cover one day and used the simple rubber tip underneath and it made very silky milk. Now the opposite is true and you cannot froth milk with the tip so if you need both for your recipe then you have switch between the two.

The video is made to its perfection, the editing was perfect, the way James expresses his thoughts is incredible and takes of the machines were impressive. I've seen many videos on youtube, this is the first one that i can tell that is perfect on the production

Lelit is legit in the home espresso scene. They tend to be value oriented, and have some of the most affordable E61 machines on the market. Literally less polish than the competitors, but pretty much the same internals until you start getting into the machines with more electronics. Most of the parts of their bigger machines are standard industrially produced espresso machine components, so they have good repairability. If you are on a budget and want a trad stainless steel HX they are an excellent option.

@patricemeijboom9004

3 жыл бұрын

Do you know what alternative basket one could buy or use to pull a better shot and is it worth it?

@michailevangelinakis5470

3 жыл бұрын

I own the Grace - Victoria from Lelit for a year now and I got to say, if you are looking for a new espresso machine Lelit is really good. I wouldn't recommend the Anna though. Spending 100€ more can get you better features and much better coffee.

@nicbrownable

3 жыл бұрын

Patrice Meijboom My experience is with the bigger E61 type machines, which are all 58mm. You can get aftermarket 57mm baskets, but you have to order them in, which is why James “couldn’t find one’’ in time for the review.

I really like the reviews that have a scorecard with categories and points. Those are extremely helpful.

Exactly the video I was looking for! Thank you! I used to have an older Lelit that I ordered from New Jersey (before PID and pressure gauge were included), and I agree with your assessment. It took me a lot of dialing in of the grind and timing to get a decent espresso using the stock portafilter. I never really achieved the flavour I was seeking, but it wasn't bad either...

I use the Delonghi Dedica for 4 years. You can vary the temperatur +/- 2°C. The pressure is very high up to 15 bar but it needs some seconds to reach its high value. So you can lower the effective pressure by stopping and restarting the shot in a series of short periodes about 1-2 sec duration each. I use a bottomless portafilter and a non-pressurized single basket 10g medium to light roast espresso. Found no other way to avoid channeling in this setting because of the high pressure (?). Maybe easier with a double basket but I don't need so much coffein in the morning. I also found the milk steamer difficult to clean. I like your videos very much, thanks a lot.

@nisholger8262

3 жыл бұрын

I am now using the gaggia new classic for 4 weeks. After delonghi dedica (see above). And yes, James, you are totally right. It is so much easier to extract evenly with the gaggia compared to the dedica. Especially the lighter roasted "blond" qualities. Thank you for your videos, giving good guidance.

@WhatsTubeChannel

2 жыл бұрын

Tried to get good espresso from the dedica for 6 months. Couldnt do it.

The Silvia is an absolute beast. I'm glad to see the V6 in your video! Once you spend some time and have patience to get to know your Silvia and learn how to manage the temperature, the shots are delicious.

Commenting 3 years after this video was made. I bought the Gaggia Classic Evo Pro mostly because of the modding community and it's much less that the Rancho Sylvia. I will go full Gagguino modification and end up with a baby Decent Machine with screen and all. I kept it stock except for a VST basket for now while I save another $200 for the full mod. The steam power can be improved greatly by running the shot water for several seconds to fill the boiler and turn on the heater. When the brew light comes back on start ta timer and turn on the steam switch. After 12 seconds, purge the steam wand for a couple of seconds. When the timer gets to 30 seconds start steaming. The steam light will be off indicating the heater is still on keeping the steam pressure up. The difference between normal, follow the manual, and this is huge.

I have a Lelit Victoria. It has a 58 portafilter and a PID. Pretty happy with it. The water tank is even more annoying than for the one you have, but, pretty good machine. I had a Silvia, the drip tray is way to shallow and the machine tends to rust from the water coming out during back-flush. However, I owned one for 10 years, didn't change a thing and then sold it to someone who wanted to put a PID on it.

Great review as always. I am so proud to have been an influence on your career. Wishing you all the very best.

James Hoffman, alway reminding us that you do indeed get what you pay for.

I've had my Rancilio Silvia for eight years, and it still delivers espressos every day at a reasonable high quality. I'm partly convinced the reason I haven't upgraded my espresso-setup yet is because it's the Silvia. Granted, a dual boiler would be nice due to the elimination of the waiting time between shot and steaming milk. If one is new at espresso brewing, and milk-based espresso drinks, I really think the Silvia is a good choice. It punishes the user for not doing things properly. And it can be as frustrating as motivating for learning the basics. (My machine was around £400 at purchase / 3.999,- Danish Kr. ).

@highcarbrider

2 жыл бұрын

Do you use a VST basket? I've just got a silvia and still struggling to get a 30g shot for longer than 12 seconds. I hope my new grinder will be able to grind my coffee finer to help with this

@sonnyellegaard

2 жыл бұрын

@@highcarbrider yes and that’s actually my only upgrade regarding the machine :-) My grinder is nothing special. Just the Mahlkönig Vario.

@jimmieodelius6816

2 жыл бұрын

I guess I'll have to check across the border then. It's roughly 6500 SEK in Sweden. :/

Such a power move making eye contact while taking a shot of coffee

@BillPeschel

3 жыл бұрын

I noticed that too and wondered about it.

Oh man, it’s 11 pm and I just stumbled on your channel. I’m in some sort of coffee loop for the next few hours..

@stinkdyr301

3 жыл бұрын

It happens.........welcome to the rabbit hole. Have you met Alice?

No matter what James uploads: first like - then watch

@EdwardScape

3 жыл бұрын

Exactly.

@JSpradley123

3 жыл бұрын

It’s not like we need to see it to know it’s good...😂

@delend456

3 жыл бұрын

I hit like just 'cause of the title of the video.

@flatulenzio

3 жыл бұрын

True, *lol*

@gedog77

3 жыл бұрын

Lol

Gaggia Classic user here for 9 years. I got used to it. Haven't tried (even though I was tempted) any other machine. I changed all sort of parts in it - gaskets, boiler, steam wand (I bought the Classic with that weird steam wand), solenoid, switch buttons, new portafilter - I love the fact that I can do that by myself, big plus for the machine. It is indeed frustrating frothing milk, sometimes it comes out just fine, sometimes it is just warmed-up milk. But we don't drink coffee with milk too much, anyways. All in all we just love it as it became part of the family.

Have been using the Bambino Plus since January 2020. Absolutely love it! I can really play with my shots and milk when I want to, using my Sage Smart Grinder, OR I can almost set and forget, the auto milk texture is more than adequate when I'm in a rush and want something milky and it pulls great shots with some adjusted pre-infusion! Got it on sale £199, if you can get it at a similar price or lower HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

@justthatcreator

7 ай бұрын

Hi, is the bambino plus still ever £199?

Thanks James, very good comparison. I would love to see the Lelit Glenda or even Victoria as well as the Quickmill Orione in comparison to the Rancilio and Gaggia. I think the price range would be much closer then .

I've had the Delonghi for nearly 2 years. Only paid £90 and have been really impressed. I feel there are a couple of points missed from the review and would have appreciated a comparison between the stock and 'upgraded' basket as I'm not convinced by that modification. You can remove the drip tray to fit a larger cup/ latte glass/ mug and there is a basic flatter drip tray with rubber edge under the tray with the float. The steam wand can operate like a traditional one of you just slide the cuff from "cappuccino" to "hot milk". You can also change the temperature and pressure in a slightly awkward menu guided by different timed button flashes. Once you set it to your preference however, it saves those settings, so worth an initial play with the settings. Just feel some of these points counter the criticisms raised.

@qcvk9846

3 жыл бұрын

I like dedica for upgrading possibillity - with these 3 buttons u can change temperature, brew time. In my dedica I changed steam wand (there od a lot of tutorials about it) and I'm using a bottomless portafilter - its giving a really nice result :)

@mephistosprincipium

2 жыл бұрын

I have one for a year now and didn’t even knew you can do that - goddamnit I should read the manual 🤣

@marysmith106

Жыл бұрын

I think the one he uses is an older model that doesn't have all those features. I have the EC79x and it has all the features you mentioned, including adjusting the water temp.

I have had a Silvia for 7 years now with a PID on it, I think you are correct, without the PID it would be tough to get a consistent shot. but with a PID it is a rock star, great quality, and built to give years of service.

Beyond just this video, I ordered a Ranchillio Silvia with PID. I'm looking forward to learning how to do milk with it and not the cheat wand that was on my DeLonghi EC702. And I'm glad I have the PID so I don't have to fuss with temp surfing as much. Thanks for the inspiration James to step up my game from a $200 machine. Now to find an affordable grinder that wont disappoint

I've had a dedica for about 3 years and really like it, only paid £72 though, you can adjust temperature, think there's 3 settings. and the drip tray is removable for taller cups (or scales). You soon get use to avoiding the buttons when holding it still but it is an issue when you first start using it

My Sage Bambino Plus came with 4 portafilter baskets - single wall single cup, single wall double cup, dual wall single cup and dual wall double cup.

@triciacarolkilbride2993

3 жыл бұрын

Hi there can you tell me whether it makes a really hot cup of espresso as i like mine hot. Bought a Smeg and its lukewarm and not to my liking at all. Thanks x

@jediarmour

3 жыл бұрын

@@triciacarolkilbride2993 Define hot. Boiling? Scolding? I am assuming lukewarm is less than body temp?

@triciacarolkilbride2993

3 жыл бұрын

@@jediarmour well basically at the hot temperature you can shove your finger in my cup of espresso...not good at all and nearly £350! Not at all happy and AO arguing with Smeg. Had i bought from Amazon i could've immediately sent it back but AO were £55 cheaper so swung it. Bitterly regret it. Say if you use item ie switch it on, you are only entitled to 50% back. Shocking!

Just randomly stumbled on this video and I want to commend your delivery, knowledge and structure of video. Really well done and I've subscribed

Just discovered this channel after getting really into speciality coffees over the last 12 months, Love this guy 🤜🤛👍

Thank you James. I have a ridiculous spring lever but on the weekends I use a Bambino Plus with unpressurised basket. It produces consistently good coffee and milk. A huge bonus with it is the fast warm up time for it (a matter of 5 seconds), so I can make a quick latte in less than 5 mins (and not wait 45mins for the spring lever to warm up).

I have a teeny tiny kitchen, the dedica sits cutely by the sink. The small footprint is a serious selling point!

Had my Gaggia for years and still going strong. Put in a brass grouphead, better shower screen, better portafilter & basket, changed the steam valve and upgraded to the 2019 steam wand, changed the pressure to 9bar. It's a pretty solid machine after that. I still find milk steaming a pain in the arse on it. But, until I get around to buying a new machine I can live with it. Done me very well over the last year of being stuck at home too

@uioplkhj

2 жыл бұрын

How do you clean the tubes if I may ask? Came back from holidays and they are all cloudy.

@DrClaw78

2 жыл бұрын

@@uioplkhj Hiya. Which tubes? I empty the machine after each use and run descaler through every month (live in London so I have to! Tbh I should do it more often). I also puly caf backflush the shower screen/grouphead. If anything's really bad I take it off and descale it in a bath (obvs removing any gaskets).

Love your videos James. I've owned the Gaggia and Rancilio (still in a holiday cottage). Agree with all points. My issue with the Rancilio is very high brew pressure which means I've to grind Super fine. This means more money on a reasonable grinder.