Hi

I need to buy a second espresso machine as my Gaggia Classic stopped working (no pumping) after 2 years.

Thought about just buying another Classic, but then discovered it had an aluminium boiler, which I didn't realise at the time I bought it. So that's ruled that one out.

I don't really want to go go down a level, but I don't know which machine might make a suitable replacement in the same category or slightly more price-wise. (I'm UK based). As far as I know the next step up would probably be the Rancilio Silvia, but if anyone can suggest any alternatives, I'd be really grateful.

Thanks

When I was looking to replace my Gaggia, and wanted to move "a step up" the machine that seemed to fit the bill the best, and seemed like the "best bang for the buck" was the Bezzera BZ07. It's on the bottom end of the price range for HX machines, but has gotten good reviews for quality in the cup and general ease of use (even showed up as the "editor's pick" on wired). Granted it probably will still cost about twice as much as replacing your Classic, and a few hundred more than a Silvia.

Of course, it's always solid advice to consider spending the extra money on a better grinder than on a better machine. Depending on when you bought your grinder there may be some more interesting options available now, like the Baratza Vario.

The Crossland CC1 is also well worth considering and has very reputable dealers supporting it, at least here in the US. The new Breville (Quick look at Breville Dual Boiler Espresso Machine) looks interesting, but the jury is still out on it for me. Recent tweets from Mark Prince (@CoffeeGeek) suggest that he is impressed by the performance of both the Crossland and the Breville at their respective price points.

+1 on seeing if you can get a Vario (or used Super Jolly and new burrs) into your budget.

After talking to the people at Chris' Coffee Service, I would look at the Crossland CC1 instead of the Silvia. Depending on how much I can save (and how long I can wait!) I'm planning on getting the CC1 or the Quick Mill Silvano.

Another +1 on the Vario though.