Contents
Introducing the Rancilio Silvia:
An Italian made espresso machine that is perfect for experiences baristas or beginners who are willing to learn. This machine is semi-automatic, which means that you will have to customise the settings yourself.
This is perfect for anyone who knows how they like their coffee and wants to be able to make customised drinks to suit their own tastes.
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The Rancilio Silvia is also one of the few home barista style machines to feature commercial trade parts for durability and that professional touch. For that reason, we have named this machine as our top pick for semi-professional machines.
“This popular, traditional style semi-automatic espresso machine is built to last. Its strong linear designed housing is constructed of an iron frame and stainless steel side panels.”
Read on to find out more about:
- The features of the Rancilio Silvia
- The pros of choosing this machine
- The cons of choosing this machine
- What you get for your buck
The Features of the Rancilio Silvia
Video: Making Espresso with the Rancilio Silvia Espresso Maker
What Is Included with the Rancilio Silvia?
The Rancilio Silvia comes with the following accessories and extras:
- Seven gram coffee scoop
- A plastic tamper
- Single filter basket
- Double filter basket
- A standard twelve month warranty
- An option for a three/four year warranty at an additional price.
- Manufacturer’s instruction booklet
Plus of course, all of the standard parts you would expect – water tank and cover, grinder, drip tray etc.
There is also a pod and capsule adaptor kit for this machine, meaning you can use it to make your favourite pod coffees too. Please note: This kit isn’t included with a standard purchase, it is an optional extra which you can buy as a separate add on.
The Pros
There are many advantages to choosing this machine. Here are our top reasons for choosing this model over some of the other models available:
The Cons
I think it’s fair to say that the downside of this machine could also be an upside.
If you are not particularly experienced in using barista style coffee makers, then the lack of automation on the Rancilio Silvia might take a bit of getting used to. With some perseverance it is achievable though, and your taste buds will thank you for it in the long run.
Of course, if you are an experienced barista, this could be seen as a positive for the product. You know you will be able to fully customise every aspect of your coffee meaning you get it your way – not the machine’s way.
A Little Tip:
Being a fully professional machine using commercial grade parts, this machine won’t like cheap coffee! Buy a good quality coffee and a good quality grinder. Experiment with the coarseness of the grind and you will soon find the perfect strength and body!
Of course there’s no rule to say you have to do this, but if you’re going to the effort of making a barista style coffee, then you obviously appreciate good coffee. Don’t let the grinding process let you down.
It can be tempting to buy pre-ground coffee, but the flavour just isn’t as good. The coffee begins to turn stale pretty quickly after being ground, and while this won’t harm you, it will impair the flavour of the coffee.
What's the Bottom Line?
Coming in at just under $700, you won’t find a more professional, more durable machine in this price range. The Rancilio Silvia is ideal for baristas or wannabe baristas who are willing to experiment and learn to use the machine correctly.
The machine is Italian made, and let’s face it – Italians know coffee. You can’t go wrong with this machine for quality and professionalism.
