Which Dual Boiler

Decent would be like buying the latest gaming PC, you know in 6-12 months time you would need another upgrade, new CPU, new generation GPU, faster memory, SSD, etc.
Buying something that has relatively (to HX machines) new technologies in it, e.g. PID, double boiler, ability to program start up, etc. is more modest technology-wise but bullet proof and is going to last.

John_Yossarian Don’t know if I fully agree with the PC analogy - my PC is over 2 years old and can still comfortably play the latest games at 2560×1440 60FPS, mostly on the highest quality settings and 4k with a mix of settings. I doubt I will need to upgrade anytime soon…for at least another year or 2.

Beverast I was talking about the game enthusiasts that populate forums such as overclockers.co.uk

Rarely a “self respected” gamer would stay with the same rig for longer than 12 months. And I do not mean to undermine your gamer’s skills at all. 🙂

John_Yossarian Ah ok, fair enough. I would not consider myself a skilful gamer anyway so no worries haha 😁

Goodfella I use Meross smart plugs, they integrate wethh with Alexa.

Another vote for Meross from me- also work well with Google Home.

Goodfella I have the Synchronika and have been very happy with it. Great steam and plenty of it and really nice quality to the exterior - I’m sure you’ll be pleased with your purchase. Just remember its super heavy and you might need some help getting it out of the box and up on the counter ! As for value for money, well if your using something every day and its part of your kitchen, then you may well need to take aesthetics into consideration and that includes the weight and feel of the components, levers, handles etc.

My favourite definition of ‘value’ is “the perceived benefits, usefulness, and importance of something". It means that value is entirely subjective. For some the La Marzocco Linea Mini is overpriced for it’s technical functions for others it’s a joy to see every morning - just as my Synchronika is for me when I stumble into the kitchen on a Sunday morning…

Goodfella What did you end up with? Is it Bianca or Vesuvius or something else ? Thx

LMSC

Goodfella So I have chosen a machine! I am going to be getting an ECM Synchronika

Very nice, enjoy👍

Goodfella Very nice! Well done and enjoy your coffee making.

Goodfella Should the Porta Filter live in the group head even when it’s off? When I got my Oracle the Sage guy told me it should only be in when heating up.

It’s ok to leave. I always lock it back even when the machine is off.

Goodfella Should the Porta Filter live in the group head even when it’s off? When I got my Oracle the Sage guy told me it should only be in when heating up.

Locke it in lightly, not as hard as you would when making a coffee. When you use the timer, having it gently locked in is essential.

Goodfella Lovely looking setup and tamper station looks great..

Goodfella Should the Porta Filter live in the group head even when it’s off

Mine does - but somehow I often find a used puck in there a few days later..

Mutepost Mine does - but somehow I often find a used puck in there a few days later..

When I come down in the morning, the machines all warmed up and there is a nice spent. puck toasting inside the group….I have a little bit of hate for that puck and myself for leaving it there!