Hi again, James. Sorry, I didn't "recognise" you. The MCaL precedes HB, but not the Nino. I was intersted before, I have to say, being a bit of an Elektra fan, but it was Nicholas Shadowfax's observations and great pictures of Robur grind retention on this site that encouraged me to "push the button" and the group deal clinched it.

I have gone to Red Roaster. Nick (is that his name?) is now mostly in the roastery which is around the corner and I've never been in at the same time he is. Nice staff, but they mainly cater for the milk crowd. Nice roasts, too, though I prefer Londinium's style.

As for the gear? What I can I say? I work 14 hour days from home many days and my little coffee beaks are, well.... glimpses of pure heaven

How's your MCal getting along? I see you have a Semi, too, now. Which do you use when? My life tends to split between the MCal for Africans and the Cremina for Americans....

Cheers

Mike

Hi Michael - never have gone lever, I've had the Semi for about 8 years though (originally purchased through CoffeeItalia). Currently down, hoping to have it back up soon; brewed coffee, though stimulating, is not exciting at all for me. By the way, totally understand the equipment/coffee break; nice for you to have choices to keep it more interesting!!

It was Tim running RedRoaster when I left; the milk crowd fairly describes me, for whatever reason cappa's are my drink (but with relatively small amounts of milk and foam). I'll have to try Londinium when I get back there.

Don't want to threadcr*p too much more, but nice catching up with you .

Cheers, James