Hi,

First post here. I posted this in another forum (link) without much help so I am hoping HB-ites can help me out.

I was wondering if anyone had any first hand experience purchasing a Silvia online? I assume the two most popular vendors are WholeLatteLove and 1st-Line.

WholeLatteLove
Pros: 2 year warranty
Cons: Did not answer two (separate) inquiries I had about products

1st-Line
Pros: Comes with bottomless portafilter
Cons: Only 1 year warranty.

I am sure there are others, but any recommendations would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Good things have been said about Chris' Coffee Service. Try to contact them.

I recommend vendors who actively support the online espresso community. Not just because they help make sites like HB and CG possible, but because engaged vendors are more likely to address potential problems with vigor knowing that their reputation is as much "on the line" as they are "online." For advice and minor repairs, online forums are frequently owners' first choice. For warranty repair, it's the reseller not the manufacturer who provides service. The attention to customer relations and quality of service are as much a part of an expensive espresso equipment purchase as the box that shows up on your doorstep.

HB has fantastic sponsors that are worthy of your first consideration. Below are examples of how they've supported the HB community:

• SwagFest
• HB Tamper Roadshow
• 1,000,000 message view countdown contest
• Holiday Wish List Gifts
• HB Anniversary Celebration
• Titan Grinder Project

Unbelievably these are only the highlights of the last two years!

I've dealt with many HB vendors and have had no bad experiences. Chris's Coffee and 1st line are two of my favorites; I'm buying a machine too, from 1st Line in about 1 week.
I am surprised that you got no reply from 1st Line. Jim always gets back to my queries quickly, and even on weekends. Often he is readily available by telephone. I suggest you might try once more. Also, he frequently monitors this site and that gives me confidence in the products and service. I am not inclined to buy coffee or machines and equipment from a vendor not participating here. These vendors are known for standing by their products with outstanding service. Checkout some of the forums here. Best wishes. Hope you will stay active with HB.

Sygyzy,
OPPS! I guess 1st Line did reply, I misread. But, my point is that most of these vendors are active participants here because they are interested in offering the best machines and equipment to a pretty demanding audience. With these guys you'll find it difficult to make an error.

Thanks for your answers guys. I guess I can't really go wrong! I will try to support the site as much as possible.

I agree with all of the above.
One thing I'd like to mention is that in my opinion, there is no man on this earth that is more readily available than Chris of Chris' Coffee Service, period.

Chris Coffee is the bomb!

I bought my Vivaldi II from Chris and have been very happy with them. I would be reluctant to make such a high priced purchase from an on-line vendor for something that might require support - but Chris Coffee is both on-line and has a walk in facility. If you can, visit them. You can look at and try out many of the units they sell and they are very patient.

I drove to Albany to avoid having my unit damaged in shipment, and it was nice to meet their staff.

- Steve

After some less than stellar service from another vendor, I have happily dealt with 1st-Line since. Great company to deal with.