Thanks for the advice. I had already planned on spending quite a bit on either a Macap or Mazzer - I have a Solis Maestro Plus now for FP, but I understand that won't cut it for espresso.

The La Pavoni Europiccola looks quite nice. The additional crema and "smoother" shot quality of levers is very attractive. I have a few more questions about it if you don't mind:
-How does it perform head to head vs. a Silvia for shot quality?
-I understand that it overheats after 3-4 shots. Is the temp stability consistently good before it overheats?
-Is it less "finicky" than the Silvia?
-Is the lever pressure a difficult variable to master? Will it make a more difficult learning curve for the machine?

Thanks,
Adam.

If you are interested in the pavoni Europiccola, there are mass numbers of owners using them now over on the lever machine forum here. They will all jump at the chance to convert you to a lever machine user. They will even be able to answer any question you come up with.

Adrock wrote:Thanks for the advice. I had already planned on spending quite a bit on either a Macap or Mazzer - I have a Solis Maestro Plus now for FP, but I understand that won't cut it for espresso.

The La Pavoni Europiccola looks quite nice. The additional crema and "smoother" shot quality of levers is very attractive. I have a few more questions about it if you don't mind:
-How does it perform head to head vs. a Silvia for shot quality?
-I understand that it overheats after 3-4 shots. Is the temp stability consistently good before it overheats?
-Is it less "finicky" than the Silvia?
-Is the lever pressure a difficult variable to master? Will it make a more difficult learning curve for the machine?

You really don't need to spend hundreds on a Macap or Mazzer when a $50 or $75 hand grinder will do very well. I'd spend that money on the machine and buy a new machine instead of a used one which may need work. My recommendation on this point is not flying in the face of the wisdom here, namely, that the grinder is critical. I agree with that advice. Rather, I'm saying that a Kym or Zassenhaus hand grinder, in good condition, with sharp burrs, is a very good grinder indeed. You have to ask yourself, What am I more interested in, making delicious espresso or in owning shiny power-toys? Consider the Silvia temp-surfing and learning the manual-lever's pull a wash in terms of learning curve. You don't have to pull very hard on the lever; you want a firm steady pull.

Regards
Timo