I received a Gaggia Baby Twin yesterday and after several phone calls with where I purchased it, it was decided I got a bad machine. This starts the frustration. Needless to say, it will be returned, but now I don't know if I want to replace it with another one. So here is what I think I am looking for: A machine that makes great espresso (but aren't we all), has a hot water dispenser, and decent height wand for steaming/frothing milk. (I am a first time buyer, but use a commercial machine on Fridays as I help kids run a coffee shop at their school). The school has a great commercial grinder, so I grind my beans there and use an air tight container to store them in. With that said, I need a machine that is not extremely finicky about bean grind. I spent $400 and need opinions if I should try another Gaggia Baby Twin, or is there another machine out there (same price range) that fits the bill. Oh, one feature I thought I would like about the Gaggia is the fact that it would automatically stop the flow of espresso without me having to stop it - but maybe that isn't a good thing?? THANKS

Beachgirl,
I've had a baby twin since June. It seems to me the frustration one feels is that it's hard to find good reviews for this machine. I got mine from wholelattelove. The only problem I've really had with mine is that it drips from the steam wand. But I just put a glass under it or put it over the drip tray and live with it.
Otherwise, I've never experienced a bad smell or taste from the steam wand. And I think it makes a very good espresso. I use fresh roasted beans, either my own or those I buy on-line from such roasters at PT's, Metropolis, Intelligentsia, Paradise, etc. I use a Pietro T-80 grinder that I bought used on e-bay for a little over $200 delivered, replaced the burrs and it works great. But before I got that I had a Gaggia MDF that worked fine on a setting on 3, 4, 5, or 6, usually around 4 for a great espresso with lots of crema. Also, I typically make 4 lattes each morning - 2 for my wife and 2 for me. I make an espresso, steam about 3 or 4 ounces of milk, and so on. Steaming this way works fine - occasionally I seem to get inconsistent steam, and I have to be sure to get all the water out of the wand before starting to steam.
I'm just saying it's probably worth it to try for another unless it will cost you extra - as long as you're returning a defective machine - My experience tells me the Baby Twin can be a pretty decent machine.
Good luck.
dickc

Sorry, but pre-grinding will never yield great espresso. Usually mediocre at best regardless the espresso machine. Coffee stales in minutes after grinding. Look at getting a good grinder first and maybe something like an Aeropress if your budget doesn't allow grinder and espresso machine at this time.