Apparently, at the back end of 2022, the dual boiler got a bit of an internal update. They changed both the brew and steam boilers and all of their sensors and tubes to compression fittings.

The serial number is on the box and also just inside the cavity where the water tank goes.

This is an example serial with a build of 2022 week 37:

A1BAAESA223701551

I was looking to get a black truffle version but all the stock I can find were built in 2021. Has anyone in the UK seen one of these newer builds in black? I guess the stainless ones are more popular as there are plenty of those around built in 2023.

Just had confirmation from Sage that the black version has now been discontinued. Back to the drawing board.

The Oracle still seems to be available in Black, though a lot more expensive than the DB. It might be worth keeping an eye on them as they do go on VERY significant offers, from time to time. I got one a while back, and it’d dropped from about £1800 to £1300. That puts it pretty close to the DB, and you can always use the built-in grinder as a backup to a standalone grinder. I tend to just use it occasionally as a single-dose grinder if I want something less fussy than espresso, like a large dose for a jug of filter, or whatever.

If it comes up on that kind of deal again, maybe it’s an option?

    CoffeePhilE Thanks for the info. I can still get a black dual boiler it’s just that they are all old production builds without the improved internals. I haven’t looked at the Oracle as I expect the internals are even more crammed and therefore more difficult to work on than the dual boiler.

    May just end up going for a stainless dual boiler - Eureka Mignon Specialita bundle as I just don’t think there is much better cup quality value out there for £1200 unless going the second-hand route.

      I have no idea whether the Oracle internals have been updated, or if they have, when. But I’d guess you’re right about the Oracle being more cramped - it’s got to fit the grinder mechanics in somewhere, some how.

      I suspect Sage in general, especially at that price point, suit a specific type of user, and it happened to include me. I’ve had mine (Oracle, but not Touch) for …. erm ….dunno, two or three years, and so far, it hasn’t missed a beat. I was a bit worried about that but, absolutely zero complaints.

      Anyway, I entirely take your point, and there are quite a few options for which way to go. Good luck with your hunt.