Comments on: How to Choose an Espresso Machine

on 11/8/2007 Don't forget superautomatics! While they can't make an espresso exactly as good as a semi-automatic or manual, the quality has improved in recent years and they can do a very close second. And you don't have to spend months practicing the technique to be able to make a good shot. If you just want to be able to wake up in the morning and push a button, they are a very good alternative. If you are willing and able to spend the time making the shots yourself and like the process just as much as the end result, then go semi. And yes, the most important part of a semi or manual set-up is the grinder. A good grind can make a good shot on any machine but the most expensive machine out there can do little with a poor grind. This article could be ten times longer to explain how to choose a machine. Find a store with knowledgeable staff to guide you.

on 1/9/2006 While a $15 moka pot or a $30 steam-powered espresso machine can both make a darn good cup of coffee, they cannot make espresso.

Espresso is made when water is forced through a puck of ground coffee at 9 bar of pressure to extract 2 ounces in 25 seconds.

Good starter machines are Gaggia or Saeco, but if one goes with a Saeco, you'll want to replace the filter basket with a non-pressurized one. Pressurized filter baskets are a crutch, and they don't work as advertised.

For good results, it is absolutely essential that one has an espresso-capable grinder. The grinder is absolutely the most important piece of equipment in an espresso bar. The better the grinder, the better the espresso.
Generally, a decent grinder can cost from a little over $200 all the up to $1200, but that's a bit on the excessive end. One of the best grinders on the market can be had for $450.

Also needed is a metal hand-tamper made to fit the filter basket of the machine to be used. Without a proper tamper, it is impossible to form a puck of coffee capable of enough resistance to cause the build-up of 9 bar of water pressure behind it.

Remember to let the machine heat up for a good 15-20 minutes with the portafilter loosely locked in for proper heat stability.

Also remember to heat the demitasse cup with hot water before pulling your shot(s) into it.

Remember that practice makes perfect. There are plenty of resources on the web for educating people about bettering their espresso. There are also numerous books on the matter. Espresso making has a bit of a learning curve to it. The more you practice, the better your espresso will be.

on 11/22/2005 A $15 "Moka" pot makes perfectly acceptable espresso. For $6, you can get a frother (it looks like a little French press). Voil!