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My setup is a Vario grinder and Silvia - I went for these as they are popular options and so lots of opinions out there if you have problems or questions. The Silvia has a large 'mod' community so even greater depths can be gone into on that. I think the ability to take the things apart and fix them/service them is good - something which the Hoffman video maybe doesn't go into.
That said I thought the little Sage espresso machine looked good for the cash and would give you more choice (money) on the grinder. The Vario changes between grinds ok but if you like V60 then it might be that you go for a grinder which is better at changing between grinds more regularly (Not sure what but others might have input). If you drink milk drinks then the steaming function will also be a bigger point.Until this year I'd used my machine maybe 2/3 x per week - now wfh I use it 2x per day for me and my wife and having a good setup has been brilliant but up until then espresso had seemed a bit of a faff but a nice to have
Tenderloin-
That’s the thing about sage machines - they’re not serviceable and parts are hard it not impossible to get hold of.
A Silvia machine with the niche would be a proper decent pair. I’m feeling jealous already tbh!
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Thanks for your replies and links guys.
The Hoffman video is interesting although I get the feeling he isn't particularly thrilled with any of them, that might just be his character.
I've got the Delonghi machine in that video, the EC685 as an "entry level" machine with a basic Krups burr grinder and I've upgraded the steam wand. Anything is likely to be an upgrade from here...Been reading some forums today and the Lelit Mara X is also looking tempting but top end of budget and nothing really left for grinder.
Silvia and Niche does sound like a good pair but can't get a Niche until February!
Debating whether to order the Niche for Feb, deal with potentially poor grinds up until February with a Mara X (stretch the budget) or Silvia or find an alternative grinder?
Nef
IamNotACrook
Possibly asked before and sort of off the back of the sage barista express chat.
I've just inherited some money and want to upgrade from my basic Delonghi machine and basic burr grinder. Late to the V60 game and I'm mainly using that over the Delonghi in recent months.
£1000 maximim for grinder and machine, what do you guys recommend?