Posted byEspresso Shots! Shots! Shots!2 years ago
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Espresso Machine Worth It Without PID?
Features of the Ascaso Steel Uno Professional with PID temperature control: PID electronic temperature control with LCD - Advanced, variable temperature control between 186 ° and 230 ° F. 2 liter Water tank - removable from the side. Stainless steel body over an enamel coated steel frame. 16 bar pump - Ensures proper brewing pressure. Daily Steam wand cleaning. Depending use Boiler cleaning. Monthly Diffuser cleaning. Depending use Replace the gasket. Daily Empty filter cleaning.
I have a pretty good amount of experience with pour over (Lido ET, Chemex & Aeropress), but now I'm thinking real hard about finally getting into the espresso game.
I've been doing my research and the Gaggia Classic is commonly cited as the best price-to-performance point for entry level machines, but people also say that temperature surfing is a pain without a PID.
The thing that gives me pause: just how important is a PID? If I get a Gaggia Classic and don't get a PID, will I be able to produce good espresso, or will I very quickly want to upgrade the machine? How easy is it to install the PID if it's really necessary for a good shot?
Also, does anyone have experience comparing the Gaggia Classic to other things like the Crossland CC1 or the La Pavoni Europiccola. I'd probably go with the CC1 in a heartbeat, to stave off upgraditis, but I'm really tryna pick something up off Amazon (giftcards) and the CC1 isn't listed. The LAE is, but I don't know how I feel about the lever machines.
Is there anything else in this price range I should consider, or any other desiderata for an espresso machine I might not be aware of?
67% Upvoted
Posted by6 months ago
Archived
Is Ascaso a reputable brand?
Hello,
I'm looking to buy an espresso machine for at home, daily use. A good steam wand is a must, but I'm really interested in learning more about the actual craft of espresso- because I honestly don't know a whole lot yet. I'm currently a supervisor at a family owned cafe, but I want to know more than how to make a latte. This kind of puts me in a situation where I want to invest in a machine that I can learn on, but I'm not really the best to judge at this point in time. The idea is to buy a machine that will last a few years, and then next time when I upgrade I will have a better idea about what to look for.
I live in Canada, so my current budget is about $1500 CAD.
I've been eyeing the Ascaso Steel Uno with PID, but I'm a little nervous because it only seems to be available in a few stores and there are limited reviews on it. Does anyone have any experience with it?
If I'm lucky then I will find something on sale for Black Friday/Cyber Monday that can be ordered online.
Edit: Feel the need to mention, $1500 is my budget for the espresso machine itself. The grinder is going to have to wait until savings are replenished, along with all the other cool accessories that I dream of getting for my home setup.
100% Upvoted