Here's the other point I need to make clear. I will only be grinding beans for my espresso use, not french press nor regular coffee. So, with that made clear, do you still recommend the Vario over the Rocky? Thanks so much!

Having used a doserless Rocky for a couple years as an alternate grinder, it drove me nuts in trying to get shot consistency and flavor in comparison to my Mazzer Mini. My Vario noticeably better in flavor that what I was getting from the Mazzer Mini. The Vario is doserless and also is a lot neater than a Mazzer. I would go for a refurb Vario in a heartbeat over a Rocky, especially at today's Rancilio prices.

I've had great luck with Chris' Coffee and their "lightly used" machines in the past, including unexpectedly good service (relative to even their outstanding reputation) when I did run into a slight issue.

There's always the OE Pharos, though I can't personally comment on that option (yet).

chanty 77 wrote: Some of the reviews I have read about Vario is that it has a lot of repair issues which scares me because of the lack of repair facilities in Wisconsin along with me & my husband not being mechanical.

A few people have had mechanical issues with the Vario, but most of us have had few or none. Probably the MDF is a little more rugged - but I've never had any problems with Baratza durability. The Vario does a superior job of grinding - which is my main concern.

Thing is, from my two different brand new MDF machines & both within one year of purchasing had broken flywheels--I don't consider that rugged at all. So you are saying, the Vario is less durable than the MDF? thanks.

The Ascaso Steel grinders look rugged. Bet it looks good next to a stainless Gaggia Classic too.

http://www.1st-line.com/machines/home_m...el-i-1.htm

chanty 77 wrote:Thing is, from my two different brand new MDF machines & both within one year of purchasing had broken flywheels--I don't consider that rugged at all. So you are saying, the Vario is less durable than the MDF? thanks.

Sorry. Said mdf, meant rocky in response to your post.

I use a Lelit PL53 with my classic and think it works well. I've had it for a year , ~2 pounds per month, and it's still going strong. I've only recently considered getting a different grinder due to how loud the PL53 is.

Re problems with your Gaggia, may I ask how often you clean it?
Including taking off the shower screen, the holding plate, and cleaning with Cafiza and descaling? Perhaps even replace a gasket? I find that when I do this my machine reverts back to almost new.