Thanks everyone, really appreciate the many responses and view points.
Where I’m at:
- ACS Evo is out based on size even if it’s a great deal
- ECM Synchronika is out based on size and feature set. Feels like paying the same price for build rather than features.
- ECM Mechanika Max. I looked at the small amount of info out there and it does look brilliant. But, I think it would have had to be £1,500 or less for me to bite.
- I toyed last night with the LMLM since they have the 25% discount. Whilst this has been a dream machine for years and the discount has come at the right time, I think I’ll regret not having more to ‘play with’. I realise I’m actually quite excited to get a bit more manual with my espresso.
- VBM Domobar super - seemed like a full featured machine at a good price. But, not sure I like the little screen and the electronic look. Same reason I’m not a fan of the Decent look.
So, it leaves me very much considering placing an order for the powder coated Bianca. Just the colour to settle on, but I’ll suss that one out myself.
As for grinders I have a question.
I’ve backed the Timemore 078s which I’m still on the fence about since no one has had an actual unit to review, just the burrs. And when you cut through the hype it seems average for espresso. I also think I may be stung with VAT which will make the whole grinder around £500 whenever I end up getting it. Which put this in Niche territory and the workflow on the Niche still looks better.
So, since I’m buying from BB and they offer package discounts, is there other grinders I should look at, especially with the potential to get £80-£100 off one?