Looking for advice on how to proceed with deciding on a 1 group dual-boiler machine for home. I will most likely be going second-hand or refurbished. I do have the ability to have 220v installed where I am living. I'm not trying to make a fashion statement, so looks aren't a deciding factor but something "Purty" is always nice.

Since I do have the ability to have a 220v line outlet installed, should I forget about the 110v machines? It is really to practice the art and science behind espresso extraction with my palate and an extract mojo. Also to enjoy the pleasures or tortures of having an espresso machine in my kitchen.

I would like to keep it around $1500 for second / refurbished. If it is second hand for that price, I wouldn't mind spending extra to have it serviced. Am I being unrealistic with what I'm willing to spend? If so, how much more am I looking at to find a 1 group dual-boiler for home? Current grinder is a Baratza Vario.

Thank you,

Raz

All non-commercial North American dual boiler machines run on 120V. I don't know about other machines, but I've seen used Vivaldis of various types coming up for sale under your budget pretty regularly lately over at CG.

Thank you for the response Bob. I wasn't familiar with this machine and will spend some time researching it. How does it compare to the 220's? Excluding a faster recovery time with a 220 machine, is there any significant differences?


With my price range being around $1500 to $1800, is it worth it or possible to keep searching for the web for a refurb or second hand 220? If so, what might some model suggestions be?

Is there any particular reason why you are set on a 220V machine? Unless you find a European model, any 220V machine is going to be a very large commercial model. Very few manufacturers actually make commercial dual boiler machines, and they're certainly not generally available for $1500 used.

If you want a dual boiler for home use, you should be looking at machines like the La Spaziale Vivaldi, Izzo Alex Duetto and Vibiemme Domobar. All have various revisions (and two separate models for the Vivaldi). I don't know what a used Duetto goes for, but I have seen older model Vivaldis selling for well under your budget. Any of these machines should be able to handle day-to-day home use, parties, etc. without recovery issues.

Bob thank you for the further clarification. Not sure why I'm pushing the 220v. I just want to be able to replicate at home what is possible in a commercial setting. If these 110 machines listed can do such that, than I will drop this 220 talk. I know most of it comes down to what's between the floor and the portafilter handle. I just want a solid machine to further devlop my skills on, with the only real limitation being my current skill set.

Can the machines listed be fitted with a 21g basket, particulary the VST?

220v in a 1-group for use in the home is a huge waste. Even if you plan on having a dinner party and serve numerous drinks, something like a Vivaldi, especially if running of 20 amps, is more than capable.

Jay_Raz wrote:Can the machines listed be fitted with a 21g basket, particulary the VST?

Both the Izzo and Vibiemme machines have E-61 groups with 58mm commercial baskets, and the VST baskets work fine. The Vivaldis use 53mm baskets, so VST baskets won't fit. A 53mm triple is available. I own one but I've never used it, so I'm not sure how much it holds. A quick search on HB seems to indicate it will hold 21g just fine.

Jay_Raz wrote:Bob thank you for the further clarification. Not sure why I'm pushing the 220v. I just want to be able to replicate at home what is possible in a commercial setting. If these 110 machines listed can do such that, than I will drop this 220 talk. I know most of it comes down to what's between the floor and the portafilter handle. I just want a solid machine to further devlop my skills on, with the only real limitation
being my current skill set.

I've tasted some of what is possible in a commercial setting. You don't want most of it

More seriously, why limit yourself to a DB?

Why not get a single group commercial HX machine? Then you'll really be able to replicate what is possible in a commercial setting and have some change left over.

[edit - I don't mean to say that an HX machine is better than a DB, but rather that given the goal, a DB isn't necessarily the only option]

allon wrote:I've tasted some of what is possible in a commercial setting. You don't want most of it

Gets my vote for quote of the day!