Opinions on Astra Pro?

Recommendations for buyers and upgraders from the site's members.
nathandmckenzie
Posts: 8
Joined: 9 years ago

#1: Post by nathandmckenzie »

Been considering selling mine, just curious how the performance overall of it for those of you that have used it compare seemingly always meant to and wanted to ask your all opinions of it-- might look for something a little higher in the spectrum I'm not sure if it's worth the return? Maybe you guys would share :)

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russel
Posts: 778
Joined: 13 years ago

#2: Post by russel »

As e61 HXs go, your Astra Pro is a very competent machine that is very short on extra features, convenience options, and nice little details. My memory of the two that I have had around my bench are that they are well/over built where it matters most and that's about it. If you upgrade to a more refined e61 HX, you'll be paying for feature and not for improved taste. That being said, there are a lot of really mature e61 HX machines out there that offer a lot more comfort than your pro does. I personally value being able to plumb a machine into a filtration system because that's easier than balancing your water tank by tank, and a good drip tray/grate design (that recessed half moon tray on your pro is the weakest tray solution that I have seen so far). On the flip side, your steam valve has the best action short of the big knobs on LM Lineas and GB5s - I love knobs and really don't like the little joy sticks.

The one big shot quality difference will be the ability to add an Erics Thermometer, which will really improve your first shot and shot-to-shot consistency. Then again, I think Astras proprietary e61 style group is heavier that a traditional e61, I think by almost 1lb of brass.
russel at anacidicandbitterbeverage dot com

givemeespressofirst
Posts: 72
Joined: 8 years ago

#3: Post by givemeespressofirst »

When I was buying my machine, I researched for more info on the Astra Pro HARD. There is very little out there. What I concluded from it was that basically everyone buys theirs and then never has problems and just uses them happily. What I could find out about them was overwhelmingly positive. I ultimately didn't go with one but everything I read about them was positive. If you're going to upgrade, I would probably go with a double boiler. I'm not sure you're going to be able to beat the Astra Pro except for the small things like mentioned above.