Hi,

My current set-up consists of a Gaggia classic and Compak K3 grinder. I have been using this for a while now with scales and a bottomless portafilter but am considering an upgrade.

For me one of its main drawbacks is its lack of steaming power and inability to pull an espresso and steam simultaneously. However, I am aware that dual boiler machines are quite expensive and I am not really looking to spend anything more than £700. What do you consider to be a step up from the gaggia taking into consideration this budget? Also, do you think I will need to upgrade my grinder too if I am spending that much on a new espresso machine? I feel the Compak has performed consistently so far.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thank you in advance.

Sounds like all you need is a stove top steamer. On the other hand, I think that the Gaggia Classic has a lot of room for improvement in terms of espresso. Either through temperature and flow profiling modifications (this is what I did) or a different machine.