Mellow Birds surely!
I lived in italy and enjoy the coffe
Now that i bought a Espresso machine at home it suprises me how the thing become ultra sofisticated 
I think it is an Anglo Saxon approch to the very traditional Mediterranean habit, they are some good scientific facts but also some över complexity and gadget push
İt will be hard to Find to someone who counting the beans for 17.5 grs for a shot.
I lived in Triest home of illy and there was a very nice coffe smell around the factory!
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I can attest to the aroma of coffee in Trieste; it was on a visit in 1993 that I first saw a La Povana. I bought one on my return to London, and it accompanied me around Europe for the next 20 years.
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Me 92/95:))
Having followed and read through the thread, I am looking for some guidance at a lower level.
I have been happily (mainly) using a De Longhi Dedica for years. The choice of machine was dictated purely by the available space in a small and crowded kitchen. It’s actually been three machines, each expiring shortly after the warranty ended. I had accepted that the size placed limitations on the life span of components and the difference in repair and replacement costs meant new was OK. The third machine is now playing up, leaking, steam valve sticking. Whilst some spares seem to be available, online guidance seems to show the older version of the machine, what were accessible screws are now shielded, parts are held in place by bent metal tabs, so replacement looms. There have been price increases and fewer stores stocking what is said to be the most popular consumer machine, so I have decided to look further. By a bit of rearranging I should be able to accommodate a machine no more than 27 cm wide and 38 cm high . Whilst moving upwards is going to mean changes and a learning curve, I have downloaded a couple of manuals and one lists 20 steps from switch on to close down to make a latte. I would prefer to get closer to the push button convenience of the Dedica. I fully appreciate those who with coffee and wine can differentiate nose and taste, I am limited by those senses being restricted from using sprays for chronic perennial rhinitis for many years. I just want to be able to make reasonable coffee, just two cups a day each for me and dearly beloved. In normal time a couple of visitors a week, so small shop/office levels not needed. Budget £500ish.
I do not want a capsule machine.
Local stores seem to have limited stock and research suggests that most consumer machines at the lower level share common components. Typically Smeg is a Dedica in a fancy case, Sage is Breville, Solus appears to share the same parentage. I cannot find anywhere locally with demonstration or try before you buy. Those I know who have machines are at this level, report similar lifespans. I’ve tried catering companies, they seem to start at £1500 and the larger machines
So reading here, searching blogs and forums give a starting point as Gaggia Classic, Rancilio Silvia and Lelit Anna. Then you start getting the negatives, the Classic gives inconsistent shots, the Silvia rusts, they all need alternative components adding. The Lelit Grace became attractive with the statement “mug friendly". Otherwise most machines will limit me to a shot glass and transfer to a cup or mug. I was interested that @emrei immediately upgraded the Lelit. Within budget I have had suggestions of Bezzera Hobby, then more expensive the Francino Piccino.
Looking at warranty details and FAQ some require use of water softeners.
Any thoughts, comments or suggestions please.
Apologies for the length, I’ve tried to cover anything that might be asked.
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Lelit Grace is a very good machine a step up from Lelit Anna
I like the hobby and there was a small problem with Grace so i had to Take it back, then i did get a very good deal for mara x it is a very nice machine
Gaccia Glassic or Lelit Anna or Lelit Grace are very good starting machines
İf you have the Funds Mara X is well worth it as well specially if you need the Steam for latte/cappos
Just go for it for any of them
Get a nice grinder as well check Niche or even Lelit Fren will do the job
İt is a very deep and nice hobby, i enjoy it wth my wife and faaaaaar better that capsules
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