HX or Double Boiler Espresso Machine?

Recommendations for buyers and upgraders from the site's members.
duke-one
Posts: 499
Joined: 17 years ago

#1: Post by duke-one »

Hello; I have the opportunity to set up a close friend with a machine and grinder (and all the rest). The budget is good and I am considering even a GS3 or Cimbali Jr. or a Classe 6 and a Mazzer Mini or Macap. She knows this is a big deal and will require learning and practice to get it right. Would I be correct in thinking that a double boiler type machine will be easier to learn? She is a serious cook so I don't think this is a hard road going nowhere but I want to make it less of a slog to get proper coffee. Any ideas on beans for this situation?
Thanks, KDM

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HB
Admin
Posts: 21981
Joined: 19 years ago

#2: Post by HB »

There's ample debate of the merits of the two types of boiler designs. Below is a sample of the more thorough discussions of the topic:
To your questions:

Yes, the temperature management of double boilers is unquestionably easier. Beyond this rather obvious observation, one must compare the performance/qualities of a specific espresso machine against another. Comparisons based purely on spec sheets (e.g., boiler design, group design, features) will lead to a superficial decision. When taking into the account the various recommendations you're sure to receive, there's no more valuable piece of advice than this: There's no substitute for hands-on experience.

As for coffees, that's not really specific to the machine type and there are ample threads with recommendations in the Coffees forum.
Dan Kehn

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zin1953
Posts: 2523
Joined: 18 years ago

#3: Post by zin1953 »

Keith -- if you (and friend) want to check out my machine, send me a PM . . .
A morning without coffee is sleep. -- Anon.