Silvia Espresso Machine w/ PID Installed

It is a robust machine for the home aficionado. If you are looking for an espresso machine built for a lifetime, this is it. Everything in this unit is serviceable and with an extensive community that has done everything to this unit. I don't see how the other reviews talk about rust on the frame; you can't see the frame unless you take the unit apart; also, the case would have to rust first. The PID takes control of pulling the shots and taking the guesswork out of the temperature and shot times. It is a must, in my opinion. Watch several videos on this unit, Seattle Coffee Gear is a great resource, Gail will take you through some great information. You want to couple the Silvia with an excellent grinder.

I was sad I had to return it because there was no PID

I don't know if I will return this or not. I spent nearly 2 hours just trying to pull one good espresso. Two different types of beans (both fresh roasted by myself), two different grinders, single/double shots with varying loads (8-19 grams), various PID settings (including those recommended by Seattle Coffee), and three different grinds, one extremely fine. In all the cases, the draw was too watery, with abysmal crema delivery (barely any to none). I worked on tamping, stirring it with needles, and using different extraction times (5 to 25 seconds). The machine was warmed up for 45 minutes (very long), and the portafilter was warmed. The Breville Barista Express got superb results for espresso draws each time with different beans, doses, etc. Years of use, unfortunately, their grinder doesn't last too long. Reading on the internet, I see that there are beans it doesn't like, grinders that it doesn't like, etc. etc. In short, I'd be wasting money buying products that won't work well with it. Sad as I like the design, size, and steam wand (superb). Will experiment some more this weekend and make my decision.

This is my first espresso machine and I'd never pulled an espresso shot in my life prior to using this machine. Doing the requisite amount of research and online video watching I decided on this machine with the PID installed by Seattle Coffee. The machine works beautifully and is well constructed, definitely not a toy like so many machines you see at retailers. The PID smarly removes the temperature and time variables from pulling delicious shots without being an eyesore. It heats up extremely quickly and the steamer is very robust in its function. All in all it's been very worth the investment for me so far. Dont forget a high end grinder and a good tamper!

I love the Silvia. The PID was put on with double sided tape and now it has come off. I don't want to have to send it back, pay for shipping, and wait weeks so... I just wish they did a better job on the PID Installation.

The Silvia really upped my morning breakfast game at the house. Pretty sure the wife loves me more because of the daily lattes:)

I cannot make a decent espresso with this machine. Have called customer service to review instructions & steps but cannot for the life of me get a decent cup of latte or espresso

Not sure what happened, but retuned the item without hassle since it did not come with PID.