Wanted to get into the world of coffee since I had a couple part-time gigs as a barista. Finally, informed by the amazing information provided by this sub, I pulled the trigger pinching a few pennies in the process. In total grabbing everything for ~$250.
So far I pulled several bad shots and one that was half decent and that I am happily enjoying in a latte as I type this.
The only concern I have besides my budget is I hastily bought the grinder on the split decision to switch from 1Zspresso J series when I saw that the Chestnut C3S pro “could” grind espresso, not realizing it lacked precision adjustments of ESP designations.
I have a lot to learn but hopefully this will help me seat fundamentals and make noticeable improvement over time so I can make the most of future upgrades.
If you all have any comments, tips, or suggestions I’ll happily receive them. A couple of purchases on my priority list are a WDT and a little funnel because I’m clumsy :,)
by jiyma
10 Comments
Looks nice! I have an even cheaper Delonghi ( same components on the inside ) which delivers quite good results. I’m looking to upgrade now, though, because it’s 7 years old and starts to show weakness.
On the portafilter side, I went back from a bottomless as it makes way less mess. Other than that, I have also upgraded the steam wand.
“Modest”? You mean “Mighty”.
i have the ecp3630 as well. i recommend taking off the panarello wand and using a zip tie to secure the rubber nozzle (it can fly off if you don’t) for more control over milk steaming.
didn’t see if you mentioned having a scale, but i found a jeweler’s scale works great under the drip tray. i have slightly taller espresso cups, so even with the bottomless, i needed to remove the drip tray. my original scale was too big to fit there (and why do the legs slant like that when you remove the drip tray?) if you don’t have a scale, get one that can do 0.1g or better. probably something compact, or that can fit on the smaller secondary drip tray under the big one, just in case.
what seems to be the problem with your shots? is it your grinder or something else?
Nice!
Love my ECP3630, consistently delivers better espresso for me than most cafes. WDT and funnel are great cheap upgrades that make a big difference for sure. I’ll second the rec to remove the metal part of the steam wand and use a zip tie, had great results after that.
You can make delicious espresso with this setup. It will take patience, perserverence, and practice.
I suggest you get a tamp mat. It will protect your counter-top, and give you a nice level surface to prepare your portafilter and puck.
Nice, looks almost exactly like my setup, but the kingrinder k6 instead 🙂
that’s everything you need to make some great espresso!
This machine has helped me learn more about espresso. It’s got the basics and allows you to fill in the blanks by working on your workflow and process. I modded mine with the Rancilio steam wand and while it’s a pain in the ass to install and find appropriate clamps, it makes the steaming much more powerful.
How is this machine’s performance, is it good ?