The importance of the filter basket, should I consider a different one?

[TimEggers]

I've been wondering about the double filter basket I am using in my Gaggia. It seems ok mind you but I have read of others using different baskets. I'm wondering what's the difference? The stock Gaggia double basket is the only one I have used would I see an improvement trying something else? What double basket can you recommend?

Thank you!

[jesawdy]

Tim-

Here's a good read on some folks preferences, here

My 14g "LM" ridgeless was my "go to" basket for a long time. For the last few weeks, I have used the 18g ridgeless, with 15 grams or so. This allows me to WDT in the basket, no yogurt cup, but makes leveling impossible. The 18g also requires a bottomless filter in many cases.

I think it is helpful to have an assortment of baskets if you want to play around, and you seem to be the "tinkerer" type, !

(At one point, TerryZ was tossing the 18g basket in on EPNW orders for free upon mention, until his first batch was gone, might be some left.)

[TimEggers]

Thanks Jeff and to be clear by LM you mean "La Marzocco" correct? This basket here?

I should add that I prepare my shot in the basket out of the portafilter handle and thus have the handles retaining spring removed, so ease of removing basket is irrelevant to me.

[jesawdy]

That's the basket M107A, yes.... it is of good quality and allows for more headroom or more coffee than some other double baskets. It truly isn't a La Marzocco basket, but that is what has come to be known as in Internet circles as being either LM or Synesso. Looks to be out of stock, and as far as baskets go, it is overpriced because of the demand.

I think Dan is partial to Faema-style double baskets. Others like the LM ridged. I think people may develop a preference to a particular basket/tamper combination as much as anything.

You might throw caution to the wind and try a few other baskets (assuming the Gaggia is staying). Here's a link to Chris' here and 1st-line here, although I think they must carry more baskets than they list on-line. A good selection and pictures here at Espresso Resource (also, they have a 12g ridgeless).

I have Cimbali single and double baskets, Rancilio single and double baskets, and the "LM"/"Synesso" ridgeless baskets in 14g and 18g, and a 21g LM triple. I never use the triple, occasionally use the singles (and prefer the Cimbali style), the Rancilio doubles are okay but smallish, the Cimbali doubles run a bit tight on a few tampers, and the ridgeless baskets get used the most. I want to get a LM single basket to try sometime.

I usually prepare the shot in the PF handle, and like that I can pop out the basket if need be even with the spring. Just my preference. When I have the PF spring out, I feel like I lost my "mojo"... it's just off.