Nah, this is the real thing:
the domestic model
The Rancilio Silvia V3 espresso machine is in a class all by itself. Whilst most manufacturers have a range of domestic and commercial machines, Rancilio is primarily a commercial coffee machine manufacturer. Rancilio only make one domestic coffee machine; the Silvia. All the expertise of building high quality commercial coffee machines has been compressed and built into a machine for the home that has a reputation for solid performance and reliability.
To our surprise, the New V3 EDITION has upgrades from the previous model that make this machine even more desirable!
It has a large brass boiler that allows for ample steam product, a solid brass 58mm group head for superior heat stability and an iron frame with stainless steel casing for long lasting durability. The portafilter comes with a commercial, ergonomically designed handle, as standard equipment.
Some other features of the Silvia include a built in cup warmer, hot water dispensing for hot chocolates, tea, and long espresso drinks. A newly designed multi directional steam wand makes milk frothing even easier, as you can use a variety of size and shape jugs.
The Silvia has a large water reservoir which is filled from the top of the machine so this can be done easily at any time for continual production of great shots.
A good grinder is as important as a good coffee machine and this factor is often overlooked. The Rancilio Rocky series grinders, available in either a doser or non-doser model, is an ideal choice, but slightly cheaper is the Gaggia MDF grinder that will also produce excellent results. A stainless steel base, Rancilio cups, ESE pod adapter are other accessories worth considering. Also, don’t overlook a good tamper!
There are also some safety features that are worth take into consideration. There is a thermostat for the boiler, another for the steam production, and a third thermostat that turns off the power to the boiler if there has been a mal function. This third thermostat can be reset anytime as it is really a circuit breaker style switch. It is located inside the machine so be prepared to remove some screws. There are videos on YouTube showing more details of this.
Also, the Silvia has a 3 way solenoid valve that releases pressure within the machine once the brew switch is switched off. This helps prevent scalding and dripping as well as letting the coffee puck remain drier for easier knocking out.
Coffeeitalia sells more coffee machines than most retailers throughout the world. This gives us a great advantage when it comes to comparing machines. If there is a problem model we soon learn about it. Likewise, an outstanding machine also becomes known to us very quickly.
The Rancilio Silvia is a machine we love to sell because it is beautifully made, solid and reliable, and with a good grinder, beans and practice, will give our customers coffee that is truly enjoyable and without compromise.
