RapidCoffee wrote:Not recently. But I did have to replace a wheel bearing on my S4.

I thought you drove a WRX.

I don't get the car analogies; it's hard enough trying to compare espresso machines without the transformation. Besides, if LM is the Ferrari of the espresso world, the GS/3 should have destroyed their reputation. It just does not work for me.

I think that personal preference is the only thing that will make a difference using any of the machines listed in this thread. My Brewtus II, by the way, is just over 3 years old. I have had to replace the vacuum valve and the teflon tube that acts as the external HX between the brew and steam boilers in that time. Both very easy fixes. When I get the chance, I need to replace the original nylon opv. That is a pretty good record for a machine of that age that has done regular service daily. I still love making espresso and steaming milk with it. I hope it lasts me 10 years.

By the look of it, it seems the BIII has addressed weaknesses like the teflon HX. It should be as reliable as any other machine with that amount of electronics in it.

Mark

Dogshot wrote:I thought you drove a WRX.

I do. The S4 is marital detritus. Neither car bears the slightest resemblance to any of my espresso machines.

My main questions about Brewtus are:
1. Quality. I noticed on the sites review it got a 7.5 but that was V1. Has it improved?
2. Steaming ability. Again new tip so has it improved over V1?
3. Will it run okay off of a 1/4 refrigerator water connection?

P.S. Does anyone have a good frappuccino recipe? I am getting some Monin Organic Syrup with Brewtus if I buy.

EDIT: Grinder Recommendation? About 800 to spend, new, from WLL.

I don't think anyone can objectively answer #1. the BIII seems to have a lot of upgraded parts and a lot of more reputable compents than in the past.

For #2, it looks to have the same steam arm and tip as found on the ECM Rocket/QM Andreja and Vetrano. This is far better than what they've had in the past and I can say my Vetrano does very well for steaming. Also as a DB it should do far better as you can crank up the pressure a bit to get even more steam.

For #3, a 1/4 inch water connection should be fine.

RapidCoffee wrote:Automotive analogies to espresso machines have never made sense to me. An espresso machine is more like an electric hot water kettle.

The Brewtus is like a Krups kettle, the LaSpaziale is like a ......darn, I only know one kettle.

I like the LaSpaziale as a Lexus analogy better than a Prius. Makes more sense.... but with the plastic side panels of a Saturn.

Too bad I don't know much about Hyundai vs Chevy . No way would I ever buy a lexus!!! BWM Acura Maybe.

Michal wrote:Grinder Recommendation? About 800 to spend, new, from WLL.

WHICH GRINDER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I looked through the Grinders forum and there isn't much information about my price range. I know the Mazzer Mini is a solid choice but I want something that distributes the grounds evenly and neatly. Is the Super Jolly a good upgrade from the mini? I know it has larger burrs and motor. Again I am limited to WLL's selection. These "strangers" have more experience than me with my little Rocky. It's not like some will say go buy than new Folger's grinder for 10000 and I'll say SURE! I love folger's coffee!

Endo wrote:Can I kindly suggest you start another topic if you wish to discuss grinders. There's enough discussion in this topic for the dual boiler gang.

And Cars