Frankenlife wrote:It is good to hear that it sounds like my machine is in good working order.
I am working with a good espresso grinder I am just not working with my own. I am using a commercial grinder at work. The downside being that I can only try 1 to grind settings a day, and my grounds are going to be about 16 hours old by the time I can use them.

May I offer a suggestion? Instead of going with the one-tamp-from-work method, why not purchase a block of (professionally) ground espresso and use that? Would get the exact grind you need without the high cost of a quality grinder (for now at least, get you though until you have the money set aside for one). This is the method I use and get consistent shots. (Rocky on the way).

I like the Lavazza Espresso Bar myself. Espressozone.com sells the 8.8 oz brick for $5.57. (Is it ok to mention names? Don't wish to break any rules)