If you have a rubber mallet try holding the porta filter while striking the spout (in the direction to loosen it). The force is usually enough to free up the spout where it can be removed the rest of the way with a pair of pliers

We HB'ers NEVER use pre-ground coffee. Definitely check out some of the stickies. Getting freshly roasted whole beans would definitely top priority. After that, if you are still having issues, then come back and we would be happy to help diagnose any flavor issues, and provide recommendations to cor...

I do believe that the factor most at play here is the grinds. I have never conclusively seen where a consecutive shot on any type of machine - h/x or dual boiler, was better than one prepped correctly on an idle machine as long as a pre-flush was employed - even if the machine was detergent b/f'd. I...

Anyone know how often and what lubricant should be used on the front bearing, and whether or not there are any other points that would benefit from some periodic lubrication?

Sounds to me that your meter is faulty. If you are simply running a carbon filter then you tds shouldn't change. Carbon filters don't have much of an impact on tds. Their main purpose is to get rid of off flavors. As randy suggested, get some pH test strips at an aquarium store to verify that your w...

What roast level are you shooting for?

The smart grinder is a really good grinder - I use mine for drip and other brew methods - don't know if can be mod'd to allow it to grind for espresso or not. Good used espresso grinders can be found in the sub-$400 range. Check ebay and your local Craigslist for listings. A used SJ is probably your...

Anyone have an issue with the K30 dosing to the side? I apparently have a faulty flap in the chute (according to a conversation with one of the Mahlkonig techs) Luckily they are going to replace it with another one. Everytime I dose, coffee would dose unevenly favoring the right corner of the basket...

I had the machine for a while, and it is a great machine, but certainly not without it's shortcomings. The machines most disappointing aspect to me was it's build quality. If you're used to commercial machines then you will be a bit disappointed, but the machine is built for the home, not a cafe whe...

Anyone tried one of the shot mirrors that EPNW is offering (a la Slayer)? Looks like it might be a pain to keep clean, but it looks like a nice gadget to avoid having to crouch underneath to look at the shot. matt