Just one cup allowed before posting on ASR. Sorry coffee is a requirement not a hobby for me.
I meant to say, there is very little science involved in espresso, it seems. People constantly repeat things they read, that flat burrs are better suited for light roasts, and that conical burrs will get a velvety mouthfeel, etc., but all with very little to no substance to back it up.
But similar to audio, if you are happy with the output, who gives a shit.
Not the real thing but a damn fine base for Americano or lattes. Takes 3 minutes, no fuss, no muss.I'm old school:
View attachment 285822
Spoiler: a blind test using cheapo grinders vs the very best could not be discerned by acclaimed espresso afficianados. But like a Krell amp, my 12 lb stainless steel Rocky Rancillo looks great on the counter, even if the coffee is no better.View attachment 285928
Like everyone mentions here, coffee doesn't get any better than this:
decent hand grinder (any cheap conical burr hand grinder) + light roast gesha beans from Ecuador or Panama + Aeropress = incredibly flavorful, bright and clear mouthwatering coffee experience! Brewing equipment total cost minus the beans of course = 70 USD, just total bang for the buck!
It's no surprise that coffee culture spans some cross section of the population—from pragmatic to poetic—as audio does. Both employ physics (although coffee depends as much on chemistry) and both are enjoyed by the senses as well as the mind.
But hell: Hand grinders are hard work. Not for me - I'm too lazy.View attachment 285928
Like everyone mentions here, coffee doesn't get any better than this:
decent hand grinder (any cheap conical burr hand grinder) + light roast gesha beans from Ecuador or Panama + Aeropress = incredibly flavorful, bright and clear mouthwatering coffee experience! Brewing equipment total cost minus the beans of course = 70 USD, just total bang for the buck!
So, lately I've been venturing into the world of espresso, and I see no reason to overspend, much like how I approach my hifi hobby.
As any interest takes hold, I usually check out youtube to gain some insight into the whole thing, but I'm noticing a trend that leaves me frustrated.
Ask any espresso snob on social media, and you'll get the same "you need to spend at least $200 on a grinder" or "Any espresso machine under $1000 is garbage". Oh, don't forget to spend $150 on a fancy brass and stainless tamper when your included plastic tamper $1.50 does the EXACT same thing with NO ACTUAL BENEFIT.
So far, I've got a Delonghi Stilosa, a cheap-o conical burr hand grinder, and coffee. I'm still trying to get the crema to be more substantial like those nespresso's, but I don't want to go down that wasteful route. I've read a lot of it comes down to a good espresso roasted bean and a nice fine grind.
What are your thoughts on the snobbery? Have you noticed it?
Are you into espresso? What gear have you gotten? Thoughts on the fully automatic units?
Who says audio does not involve chemistry? Get some friends over for a listen and within an hour they are all blind drunk.
I read a comment on one of his videos that said ... "I can't decide if he's the youngest old guy i've ever seen, or the oldest young guy i've ever seen".
I cannot watch one of his videos all the way through as he's way, way too long-winded.