I've got clearance for a new espresso machine, up to £300. Don't want bean to cup, just need good espresso and milk frother, low usage- 2 or 3 shots/day. Anything other than the Classic that I should consider? I'm coming from an old, broken Cubika. Cheers!
Was going to say Cubika... but I won't.
Heard some grumbles about the latest revisions of the Classic. I'd probably go for the Rancilio Siliva (ok, it's 350 quid but that's almost within budget 🙂 ) especially if you are making drinks for the ladies with your steam wand.
Edit... fyi...
Gaggia Classic 2015 vs old Gaggia Classic
Of course, all of this was in place in the original model, and is likely part of its enduring charm. So what is different?A big part of the reason for this tweaked model is new energy standards requiring an ultra-low consumption standby mode. However, there are some other hardware alterations too.
The new Classic has a stainless steel boiler rather than an aluminium one, to avoid corrosion issues a few years down the line. Its boiler is also a little less powerful, a measure designed to comply with EU regulations. It has also been made a bit easier to maintain, but that’s hopefully not something you’ll need to worry about in the first couple of years of use.
What's wrong with your Cubika?
Keep an eye on Gumtree and eBay for an old Classic. It's how I got mine and many of them have been used a few times and then consigned to a cupboard.