Hey guys,Its been a long while since I posted on here. Too many hobbies and too many forums that I frequent and too little time. Im sure you all understand.Anyway the time will be coming when I will be upgrading my coffee machine. Sooner rather than later I hope.
M39 TE is Cimbali’s new top-range machine. Designed, implemented and built to develop and improve business; it is the barista’s able and capable partner. This classic model of the Cimbali range includes many innovative solutions. The model is presented with a new look as well as upgraded technology and functionalities. Increasingly more evolved and connected to the world of the coffee bar.
At the moment I have a $100 sunbeam but it does have a boiler which is why I bought it. I had hoped on upgrading to a silvia with rocky. Mr Rudd has been instrumental and will help me realising that dream.I noticed today another machine in the same price range though and that is the La cimbali domus classic. From what I have found the boiler is just under 500ml which is of course a substantial amount larger than silvias which brings to light the obvious question.
![Machine A Cafe Cimbali Domus Classic Machine A Cafe Cimbali Domus Classic](/uploads/1/2/5/3/125391867/980422205.jpg)
Is this machine going to be more stable than the silvia? The other thing I noticed is that it doesnt use a commercial porta filter. Does anyone know if the machine will take a commercial one if I buy one?The other question I have is of build quality.
I had previously looked at some cheaper machines but they use silicon piping etc. Silvia is all brass and copper so is the cimbalis boiler brass or copper and are all the internals solid?The most important question though is how does the machine perform?To summarise the things that are important to me areTemperature stabilityMachine has a good boilerquality of build. Will it last for years to come?58mm portafilter also will commercial ones and their baskets fit?Any comments people?ThanksJustin. I think theres a lack of discussion on this comparison - maybe since the Domus is rare in Australia, where the Silvia dominates this category in the market.I havent owned either (but have used both) so dont take what.say as gospel.Its a worthy alternative to the Rancilio Silvia (now that they cost the same).Their main difference is in the boiler: Brass on the Silvia (300ml) and Aluminium on the Domus (500ml).Theres been a lot of discussion about aluminium boilers (relating mostly to Gaggia Classic machines). In theory they can wear out faster than brass. In practise, this is only a major issue if your water is hard (ie, contains high amounts of metallic compounds). Hard water causes scale, and can lead to serious corrosion if not de-scaled regularly (with the correct de-scaling fluid).
Domus machines have a built in water softener. (not sure how this works though).Brass is more heat-stable - we know stability is key to a good shot.Aluminium heats up faster - the domus gets up to temp in 10-15mins, where the silvia takes 25-35mins. Domus also has a more powerful heating coil.The boiler in the Domus is located above the group, (so more passive heat is transferred) wheras Silvias boiler is offset.It wouldnt be a silly idea to improve the insulation on the Domus boiler.So, going by what people have said, the Silvia seems to have a slight edge on shot quality - if you have a worthy grinder, and are prepared to do a bit more temp surfing.The Domus is more consistent (seems to have a smaller temp deadband).Im pretty sure both can be PIDd.Steam - both are good. Silvia steam wand/tip is legendary. Domus makes up for it with more available steam.
Both are capable of doing a few tall lattes/cappas with no worries.Group - Both groups are chromed brass. Im not too sure about this, but I think 'commercial group' on domestic (SB) machines often just means 56-58mm; it doesnt necessarily make them interchangeable.Build quality/reliability is great for both. Rancilio and La Cimbali have both manufactured heavy duty commercial machines for decades, and the experience shows. Both designs are classics. Obtaining parts and servicing is relatively easy.Domus is very compact and has a more 1980s appliance style to it.
Silvia has a more industrial look/feel. Domus has a painted aluminium shell.In most countries they cost about the same when a compatible grinder is considered. Silvia has better resale potential and can benefit more from upgrades. 2nd had Domuss are very cheap for what you get (providing the boiler isnt corroded).Overall??I think (not being an expert at all) that if you want good coffee quickly and easily, get the Domus.But if you like learning the ups & downs of making coffee, and chase the occassional great shot - get the Silvia.So, after my research & testing - which did i choose?Neither! Im saving for a VBM Domobar HX.:P.