WDT, correctly executed, was my first thought & a naked portafilter to observe puck defects showing up in the flow. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Mastering the espresso process is a challenging learning curve and that makes it all the more thrilling when you get the bits sorted

That is very cool. I don't need to use WDT anymore but used a blunted 20-G hypodermic needle when I did. Thin & strong. Your acupuncture needle rig looks to be a winner

If not for WDT when using my G-60, I would not have overcome distribution issues. Switched to using the shaker exclusively after the EG-1 showed up with excellent results. Weigh the bean dose; grind into the shaker; gently shake and dump into the portafilter; tamp; pull the shot. Results are yummy i...

Mucho congratulations on taking the plunge, Coach! You are on your way! Hope you enjoy the learning curve as much as I did. Maddeningly enjoyable to sort the bits, it was. That said, one can never know it all. That's why the HB forum is such great place

Hi Coach, I was at the same point in December 2016 as you are now. I went for a good $1700 HX machine and a $700 espresso grinder. Then, started the learning curve (which was delightfully challenging). What I learned was even the best espresso machine is only as good as the quality of the grinder

Finally, something has appeared. Thanks, CS, for this link: {link} An idea popped up while reading it... It might be possible to tweak an already-close dial-in with the rpm. From what I read, using base setting of 1000 rpm is just fine

That seriously sucks, Antonio Perhaps if you visit the customs folks in person and see what they have to say, they might have suggestions that are far less expensive and with minimal delay. Just a thought

First, congratulations are in order! I wouldn't worry about break-in. It was a non-issue with my unit and others have said the same. Haven't located any study results on variable speed grinders. Also, am using 1000rpm with excellent results

Home Barista newbies might want to listen to HB Admin Dan. He is telling it like it is, no ifs, ands or buts

It has taken time and patience to find the right professionally roasted beans 'for my espresso tastes.' Not saying anything negative about the ones I did not prefer, just that they were not stellar to my personal palate