Rancilio is another Italian espresso machine manufacturing company that has it figured out. I don’t knock other manufacturers, but there is always something about going to where it all started with espresso that makes it all a bit more authentic . . . right?
Is It Pretty?
Ok . . . what’s your definition of pretty? If it is a nice looking espresso machine that can fit into the design of your kitchen without anyone noticing, the Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine might not be to your liking. If you you’re looking for an industrial looking espresso machine that proves to your friends that you can hang with the toughest baristas around, then the Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine is for you! It clocks in at over 30 pounds too, so where you put this beast is probably where it’s staying.
Bells and Whistles
The Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine features include:
- An ergonomic portafilter handle that is found in their industrial machines.
- A group head that is capable of producing superb stability and heat extraction.
- A steam wand that allows full range of motion.
- Optional pod and capsule adaptor kit is available (but sold separately).
For the Techno-Geeks (Like Me)
- Input Power: 1100 watts
- Pump Pressure: 9 BAR
- Boiler: Brass
- Dimensions: 9.2″ x 11.4″ x 13.3″
- Machine Type: Super Automatic
What People Like Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine
This machine looks like an industrial model, and it’s built like one. Most people’s high praise comes from the fact that this thing could take a bullet and keep on working. It’s not a small machine, but it is built well and is going to last for those who care for it properly and have a little more experience with espresso and the machines that make it.
People who buy the Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine are true lovers of espresso and have probably a little more working knowledge of what goes into making a good cup. Yes, you can buy an adaptor kit to make this machine work with espresso pods or capsules, but it works best with real, ground coffee.
If you give it the time it deserves, the Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine is going to be a great machine.
What People Don’t Like Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine
For all its praise, the Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine has its number of problems, but in my opinion, it comes from people who didn’t really know what this machine was when they bought it. Yes, it is a technical super automatic espresso machine, but it does need an experienced user.
Most gripes come with the size. It will fit in your kitchen, but you have to plan for it. It also weighs upwards of 30 pounds and most people will tell you to find a retailer that will ship this for free.
The Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine is also reported to be finicky with temperatures. Some reviewers report that factors like outside temperature, and even humidity, will result in wildly different performance. If you know what you’re doing, you’ll be able to adapt, but be ready for it. There are YouTube videos and entire after-market pages dedicated on how to get this machine right . . . I think that is a bit of a warning flag myself.
The other noted complaint (which to some is actually an advantage of this machine) is that it needs truly exact, and properly tampered, coffee grinds. As such, you will most likely need to invest in a good coffee grinder OR a kit to adapt the Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine to take pods or capsules. Either way, you’re looking at investing more money than just the machine itself.
Pricing and How to Make it Yours
This baby has a little bit of sticker shock to it. The Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine $938.00. However, we have found it for as cheap as $685.00.
That may put this out of the range of some people, but it is definitely a durable machine.
You can purchase the Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine by clicking here (Amazon).
Walmart.com also carries the Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine for $688.90
What an Italian Grandmother Would Say
Beginners beware!
Our Recommendation
Let me say this right off the bat: The Rancilio HSD-SILVIA Silvia Espresso Machine is not for beginners who want to press a button, walk away and come back to an espresso. This machine will take time, has a learning curve and is best for someone who knows, and appreciates, a little bit more about espresso and espresso making.
