[Abcan]

Hi @PT90. I recently upgraded to an ACS Minima from a GC. My usage is similar to yours. Minima is perfect for me. I got it direct from ACS in Italy and it worked out around £1300. It’s an odd looking machine (which I like).

 

[Abcan]

How much import duty did you have to pay?

No duty as it’s built in an EU member country (Italy) I paid VAT an 20% and a £15 DHL charge.

 

[Abcan]

Thanks so much all! I am leaning towards PID-ing my GC, maybe with a dimmer mod to just because. Letting that get me through and keeping an eye out for a MaraX, Profitec Pro 400, or, unlikely but maybe, an ECM Mechanika. Dangerous words but I feel like any of those would be my endgame.

In ruminating on this I have also come across the Belleza Chiara, which appeals because it has PID and I don't see the point in the hot water arm. Anyone any experience of this machine?

@Abcan , how are you getting on with your Minima? I am with you, I like it's aesthetics!

Hi. The Minima is great. It’s a lot easier to pull a consistently good shot than the PID’d GC. The biggest difference is being able to steam without waiting after pulling a shot. It saves so much time. I think if I were in your position I’d not bother spending money modding the GC and go for the Mara X (or the Minima, which is whatI did)

 

[Abcan]

I feel like I’m betraying the Gaggia.
But this appeared on eBay

VBM Domobar Analogica Espresso Machine Brand New - Xmas Special | eBay

The Domobar Analogica has an easy fill water tank and lever operated pump for making espresso and a steam wand for preparing the perfect hot milk. There are 3 of these available.

www.ebay.co.uk

Admin maybe consider moving this to the eBay links bit?

(It’s not my listing!)

That is a nice looking machine and a good price but it’s not enough of an upgrade on a GC in my opinion. No PID? I’d go as far as saying a PIDd GC would probably give you better results.

 

[Abcan]

I think I know the answer but is an ECM Classika a daft option given I drink milk based drinks? I very rarely make anymore than 2 at a time and it appeals because it is compact, has a PID, apparently ECMs ate built to last, and also spares me the unnecessary (in my eyes) additional.hot water arm.

There is perhaps an argument to say I have gone back around go the Minima.... Oh well. There are just too many options!

😂😂 Another good machine. If you can manage the wait for the boiler to heat after pulling your shots then go for it. I still think you’d be better off with a HX machine or DB.