Rancilio Silvia

Commercial Quality in Home Espresso Machine!

Author's Rating:

Pros: Commercial machine for home, brass boiler, commercial-size portafilter, resale value, savings from trips to cafes.

Cons: Steep learning curve, need high-quality tamper; but tamps are as unique as each barista.

Bottom Line:
Best machine for money, well-known name, brass boiler, high-quality, and high resale value makes excellent machine. Extensive modifications available, well worth cost with Rocky Grinder. Still Rockin in 2011! Read More

Memories of Rome

Author's Rating:

Pros: Good espresso with a good crema; easy to learn the basics

Cons: Getting it perfect takes time and practice; pricey grinder almost necessary

Bottom Line:
The Silvia is a great product, and the perfect way to bring a little taste of Rome into your daily life. Read More

Silvia is a bewitching brewmistress!

Author's Rating:

Pros: Solid construction, nice design, powerful steam, makes killer espresso!

Cons: Brass shavings in steam, modest boiler size, very sensitive to bean grind and quality.

Bottom Line:
Silvia is a great home machine. Once you get the hang of using it, it'll make FANTASTIC espresso and steamed drinks. You'll also need a good quality Burr grinder. Read More

Queen of the sub $1,000 home machines

Author's Rating:

Pros: High Quaility Machine, strong performer, if you find a refurn for <$600 buy it!

Cons: Not as svelt as the more "sexy" competitors.  Don't be tempted by the others beauty!

Bottom Line:

A great machine for the home, office or light commercial use.  Highly recommended

You have to love the ritual and the coffee!

Author's Rating:

Pros: Authentic espresso and related coffee drinks at home....goodbye to Starbucks and paper cups forever.

Cons: Wish it had a single extraction filter basket for that single shot.

Bottom Line:
This machine duplicates the excellent espresso and Cappuccinos of Italy. A little work to learn, but worth the time and effort for the outstanding results. Read More

Silvia - Remote Control -> Steam -> Good Cup!

Author's Rating:

Pros: Solid, Best Single Boiler Around, Great Steaming Power, Looks Great

Cons: Minor issues with the water reservoir.

Bottom Line:
For individual cups to small parties - this is the machine! Read More

For intimidated prospective buyers and new users:

Author's Rating:

Pros: Rugged, professional, great results

Cons: Not automatic, this is a manual machine in every respect.

Bottom Line:
So far this machine does what it says it can do - make great espressi! Read More

Ms. Silvia is the newest family member

Author's Rating:

Pros: Reputation! Durable construction. Commercial components. Allows for tweaking and modifications. Heavy portafilter!

Cons: Autofill for boiler would be great! Could use hotter cup warmer. Long warm up time.

Bottom Line:
You might find cheaper machines, fancier machines or ones with more gadgets, but if you buy this one, you will not find a better performing machine. Read More

Best espresso machine for under $400

Author's Rating:

Pros: This can be a great machine for those who are picky about their coffee

Cons: Unless paired with an excellent grinder you may be disappointed in the results.

Bottom Line:
In my opinion this is probably the best machine on the market for under $400.00. but don't handicap yourself by trying to use it with an inadequate grinder. Read More

First-Time Espresso Owner/ Purchasing the Rancilio Silvia

Author's Rating:

Pros: Easy to use and clean, makes the best cup of espresso you'll ever enjoy!

Cons: Can seem intimidating, not for the faint of heart.

Bottom Line:
Research companies and machines before purchasing. MOST IMPORTANTLY: Deal with someone who will help you before, during and AFTER the sale, like the outstanding crew at Chris' Coffee. Read More