The expensive hobby of coffee, yup, I went down that rabbit hole too. I am upgrading into the 58mm portafilter basket world from a Flair Pro 2. I only make espresso on the weekends and by then I have lost the muscle memory of how hard and even to tamp and it seems to mess with the flow rate/dialing in process. Hopefully with a self-leveling tamper with set pressure will keep one variable consistent like you said. I also could not find much on a rippled base. Some where complaining about coffee ground retention in the ripples and annoying to clean. I will give that Normcore one a try.
This afternoon, I was pleasantly surprised by my Aliexpress delivery of the same tamper that you have. Since getting a new espresso machine, I have gone deep down the rabbit hole. Thanks for doing this video.
Just got the ripple base and you’re the only one talking about it! I couldn’t really find much other than showing what it looks like after you tamp. Thank you…🙏🏽
Hello Jess.Received my Force Tamper a couple of days ago. .Right away it improved my tamping pressure.Hensforth,I can now achieve pressure anywhere from 5 to 11.Fresh coffee used. Very pleased with it .Greetings .HR.
HelloJess .I just purchased the Force Tamper from Ali Express, for C 228.89.This sale is on until March 26/23.This is the last pricy espresso gadget I have purchased and hopefully closed the rabbit hole.Greetings HR
The force works with the same patent of any automatic center punch, same mechanism, same action fancy expensive price but it is confortable and joyful to use. worth 200 bucks? probably not but still a nice piece for fast and accurate tamping.
About the ripple base. From other information on youtube, the tamping just removes air pockets in the puck and helps prevent channeling. Since when it’s hit from all the pressure of the pump the puck gets smashed anyway. So it probably doesn’t have much affect.
ya I don't feel like I noticed any significant effect, that's not where I'll see improvements (flat vs ripple) I find it interesting that the ripple base exists but not that much info on the effects of it VS other bases.
I went down the tamper hole and got the Bravo Tamper which cost me $250cdn if you include the duty charged. I've have had it for 2 weeks and I can say I'll never go back to a regular tamper. This tamper come from Brazil and as a result the choice of wood handles is unique. I might do a video on my channel in the coming months.
I purchased a Breville dual boiler machine late last year partially from content like yours and others. I had a used single group La Cimbali Junior machine previously. I must say, the BDB is a giant step up from that! Amazing value. Like you, how far down the rabbit hole with gizmos do i go... I just bought a Normcore v4 tamper which has self leveling like yours. Definitely worth it for these self leveling tampers as I could visually see my older Pullman tamper sometimes not perfectly level the puck (my fault obviously). Switched to a VST 18g basket and changed the shower screen to IMS with the metal shower screen holder. The stock shower screen holder is plastic! I don't like the idea of near boiling water passing through plastic... I figure we buy these items once and they should last long enough to justify their initial purchase. My last item is a WDT but I'll probably design and 3D print it instead. Thanks for your amazing videos :)
Breville are harder to repair but not impossible. Having done the slayer mod, I learned a lot about the internals and how it works and I break it down a bit more in my video so hopefully it helps other people too!
that's what I did as well! It's good to learn and have fun with all the the included tools at the beginning until you understand what it is you "need" to upgrade to. And if you get this tamper, you know where to find it 😉
Just bought my first machine. I started with Gevi similar to Breville. Wanted to see how much I’d use it before the huge investment and im thinking I should have just got the Breville lol. This seeming works well but I’m loving this Coffee journey so far and I love your channel
I've never heard of a Gevi! Is that from the States? could have gone for the Breville Barista Express to start! But you know what, I just sell my items and then upgrade. I do it all the time, sometimes I even make a profit off of it cuz I'm good at marketing and pricing my items 😉 so no regrets! You may lose a little but considering you used it, it's not really a loss right?
@@GadgetsGearCoffee it’s an Italian brand and it had great reviews. Also Amazon had a $200 coupon so I got it for about $400 figured that was a great deal for a beginner.
hey jess, thanks for the detailed video. So far the only one reviewing this tamper from aliexpress. I'm loving the wood accents much more than normcore's V4, but could you chip in or how much 'pressure' this aliexpress tamper has in its spring? Most alternatives like the normcore comes with different springs with different resistance (lbs) stated, and i'd personally want to have a minimum.
Hey jauzes, thanks for the props! To answer your question, I haven't even played with the depth to lock it in anymore, I just push until I feel a good amount of resistance and that's been working out for me. If you want that precision of the lbs then you won't get that here but ultimately it's about 30lbs pressure and there have been articles about how that doesn't need to be precise how it's hard to over tamp (don't get me wrong I've seen it, people who put their entire weight and hurt their shoulders in the process, that's too much). If the lbs is an absolute requirement for you then this isn't for you. I only heard of the norm core after I bought mine, norm core looks like a great cheaper option to the force tamper. Though I don't think you get that satisfying click on it, that force tamper reminds me a torque wrench
I caved and bought a force tamper and youtube algos brought me here. I think it's absolutely great but I'm surprised nobody has done a clone... Anyway good job with the videos! Hope you make more espresso videos eg. Turbo shots vs regular shots, PI vs non PI and so on. I'm new to espresso, but have been playing with all these settings on my Decent.
I don't feel I'm qualified enough to go to that length but I do have other coffee gear reviews coming up, just waiting for the pre orders to be fulfilled :) What's PI btw? I'm really surprised too about no force tamper dupes! I wouldn't be surprised if I get myself one in the near future. I also have a cool video idea in the plans I don't think I've seen anyone else do, more a story time type of thing but coffee related, but I'm waiting on the rest of the gear before I make it. You heard it here first 🤫
@@GadgetsGearCoffee PI = Pre-Infusion. The Force Tamper makes great coffee, too bad about the price though. Also just bought a ridgeless VST basket, a bplus screen, have a bluetooth scale... and looking at grinders- what grinder have you got? Re: qualified, most of the people out there are just trying gear and then giving a happy or sad face from the coffee it makes anyway. Some even skip the face and just do a twenty minute monologue. Just treat it as a vlog, compare things (this vs that) and you'll be fine! The hobby itself already is very entertaining with everyone very curious to try and learn about various gadgets, the bar is low to make something entertaining. Look forward to seeing more videos from you!
@@jelt lots of opiniated coffee people out there. But the vlog thing is giving me an idea, hmmmmm I have a sette 270 for now but got a massive upgrade on a pre order. th-cam.com/video/e5shtTh-uqk/w-d-xo.html I actually have a coffee/espresso playlist on my channel
Hello Jesse,I ordered the Self Leveling Tamper from Ali Express ,which will arrive at the end of March.However to my surprise .the same tamper arrived at my doorstep 5 days later. It was the all Metal tamper .(Silvery Colour ) I didn't order that .My order had the wooden knob on it.I think that certain sellers on Ali express.undercutting original orders.I went back and forward with a robot type of person.They never answered any question straight forward.I don't like this kind. of business .I will wait till the end of March when my original order arrives. HR
That sucks, you can try disputing the order and then sending proof I can't remember the whole thing but whatever you do, don't click confirm receipt yet that won't give you enough time to dispute and stuff
I love this video, but sadly won't fit my De'longhi 51mm PF. I really need to upgrade to a dual boiler, but I really need to devalue my machine first. Sigh..... I wish that base came in a different size, have you tried the Normcore v4? That seems to be between this device and the force. I'd love to know your thought/opinion!
Just discovered your channel! I'm not yet into the espresso game but will eventually (no place for an espresso machine in my apartment). I'm always looking for new stuff to learn about in the coffee world and I didn't even know those self-leveling tamper existed. Like you say it's a pricy hobby but... C'est ça qui est ça!
for your coffee machine in your apt, I feel like if there is a will there is a way! You could always get a roll cart for your coffee machine or get rid of other appliances you don't use? It really is a pricey hobby. Start small or save up and just go all in. Once I accepted it would be expensive and what I was willing to compromise on or not, I worked my way there and just upgraded slowly. Or not slowly. It hasn't even been a year 0_0
@@GadgetsGearCoffee pretty much covered everything 🙌🏻. For me i wanted something weighty, that looked good, easy to calibrate and held up over time. Was happy to find someone reviewing it! Definitely peaked my interest in the rippled bed, however 😬. Curious to compare. Thanks again. I have the BDB also and still going down the rabbit hole. I no longer bed level, instead just WDT and tamp. Pretty happy with that combo at the minute ✌🏻.
Hey! Great review :) this clarify everything on this tamper. I have one question, maybe you'll advise. How about using this tool like a regular manual tamper but just leveled? I mean the depth regulation - I was planning to buy and use it in a way that it never stops me from pushing down (so like a normal manual tamper) but benefit that it is leveled. This way I can feel the coffee puck, will never need to calibrate it and of course will have leveled tamp. What do you think about such approach?
What does the puck look like after extraction? Are the ripples still present or does the puck look the same after? To me the ripple mounds are not as compact as the rest of the puck. But, I don’t have or use one. Just what my brain told me without any evidence that what I thought was true. Love the content. Thanks.
Hi there. Great channel you have. I was looking to get this same tamper in the same walnut finish - but cant see the store on alliexpress (coffee town store). I have the oracle BES990 - should I get the same size (58.5). Thanks.
I clicked the link and it shows up properly for me! Try a different browser? As for the BES990, it's an oracle so it is supposed to be the same size (according to Breville's own portafilter production description that fits both machines)
Great video, you show 58.5 and 58.35, I have a standard breville dual boiler too, I was always told 58mm but looks like the 58.5mm fits snug, am I correct in saying the 58.5 will fit my standard double.
0:20 what do u think about the calibrated 3bomber tamper (30lbs constant pressure) instead of this first one u showed? Cost way less and seems to be pretty good I guess ☕
that one looks great too! though tamping doesn't have to be an exact 30lbs so I don't see myself getting a new one at this point - if any other viewers are wondering about the tamper CHAMPS is mentioning, s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DEfg6Kr
that is a brand I've seen more and more and they have nice quality affordable coffee gear, did you end up getting it? almost ordered one but noticed they don't have 58.5mm which is what I got so it's a tighter fit in the Breville Dual Boiler basket
I don't think it makes any sense to have a tamper with limiting maximum depth like that. I can't see how it would make it more consistent, if you dose your coffee a little higher or lower (or if your grinder gives out a different amount), use a different basket, or a different coffee (lighter or darker roast) it's going to be compress more or less as a result. The real Force Tamper is a unique design that you press until it builds up and releases the pressure and uses a knock to compress the coffee consistently, It's kind of like a staple gun mechanism I believe if you've ever used one of those. I just posted a video about the one I just picked up! I might have my Decent v3 self-leveling tamper up for sale soon!
Cool video - handy to see some of these things in action particularly with the BDB. I had some drama's with my BDB around the time of this vid. After 3 weeks of ownership it started boiling the espresso shot, and the temp gauge was faulty. Then after 10 days waiting for it to be fixed, I put my cranky pants on and got the Breville supplier involved... Actually they were fairly good about it, and end of the day people are just doing their job. So I got a new replacement machine... which has been fine since. Perhaps one of the interesting things though is I do notice differences between the two machines, this one seems to have a slightly lower flow of water at a given pressure - the grinder which comes in the pack also has different tolerances, c'est la vie.
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Handy to know. I might do some research on that - one of the things that attracted me to the machine was it looked like it was designed to be maintainable.
@@MrAlternateTheory the BDB? that's funny cuz most people say the opposite for the BDB compared to other machines actually. It's prosumer so it's not designed to be tinkered around but ultimately, if you know the basics and machines, you can figure it out. At the end of the day, it's got screws and gaskets and valves etc. Pieces that can be purchases and replaced
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I suppose that is true - particularly compared to the Italian machines (my friend got an ECM recently). I was thinking compared to the cheaper machines that hide the screws and more or less make it a nightmare to take any panel off. _On the topic of the ECM, I can definitely see the advantage there, much quieter machine, just 3x the price_
@@MrAlternateTheory there is a brass piece I believe the OPV you can replace on the BDB that makes it quieter and vibrate less. I didn't bother cuz it's too much trouble and the noise doesn't bother me that much
I'm guessing the extra spring supplied is for greater / lesser spring force? Have you had a chance to change them over and see the difference? Seems weird they should supply two of the exact same spring rate.
Knowing absolutely nothing about making espresso this all looks like some real equipment heavy craziness. After seeing the tiny cups and once tasting espresso in Spain I'm sticking with My great flavored coffee with like great creamers. You enjoy - -
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Oh I love that reply. It sure looks like a rabbit hole from here. My sweet tooth loaded mouth doesn't care for strong , bitter, blah stuff. I make a cup at home that will just complete Your day.
Wow, that is getting into the realm of espresso high science. I'm just at espresso 101, and only because my girlfriend had an espresso maker when I lived in Seattle. I will however put some instant in the grinder and get out my trusty Walmart dead-blow hammer/tamper and give it a go. For science! What could go wrong? Cool video though, calibrated coffee tamper! Who knew?
It's not calibrated though! Since it's not like the force tamper and other similar ones that click and stop at certain lbs force. It's a good step up from what I was using though. Feels quite pro 😎
@@GadgetsGearCoffee And that's why I am working at the espresso 101 level as a class cutting undergrad and you are working on a masters. Indeed, you even said it was not calibrated for force. I was looking at the vernier scale like graduated lines and thinking/hearing that you self calibrate the device for depth in my wonky head, since that sort of happens. Kind of like that Jedi mind trick we play on ourselves when we fill in the blanks and read right over something because the mind jumps to conclusions. I do bet that must feel very pro though at 55USD a pound. lol With the classy wood handle and cool solid tech design it looks like it will be around well into the next century, so I can see the value. It's also valuable when something brings joy to our favorite rituals. ☕🖖
Wiggle room, like in the basket? Or the actual tamper, yeah, it works fine but I don't think Normcore feels like a precision instrument. It does wobble a bit. The Decent brand tamper is good if you want a nice self leveling tamper, but not a weight calibrated one. I think Bravo tamper works the same way, and is supposed to be nice. Happy Tamper or Normaldose are also interesting options that I think would be good.
I have (had) this one and it wobbled a lot.. it was actually prone to do not really lebel tamps because there was too much play in it… that is why I gave it away
Why bother adjusting depth? If the tamper travel stops too high you won't get sufficient compression, where as if it never hits the stop you'll know you've got good tamping (with the benefit of its self-leveling mechanism compared to a regular tamper). There's no way to over-tamp (it's been tested), so just tamp hard, make sure it doesn't hit the stop and you'll get the best out of this product. BTW, I used this tamper as my main tamper before I received a Force tamper as a gift and they're both just as effective. The only difference is that you don't need to tamp hard with the Force tamper, so you're less likely to suffer from barista-wrist RSI. I currently use this tamper on occasion with a custom 41.5mm base and a VST 7 gram basket. Works a treat.
I agree! Not long after I got it I updated the description and I have a higher depth range and I just push until I feel some resistance and stop. As for the force tamper, I don't believe it adds power to the tramping action, I thought it was just calibrated so it clicked when you reached set pressure. Like a torque wrench
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I wasn't suggesting the Force tamper adds power. It just provides consistent and relatively minimal force that's sufficient. With a regular self-leveling tamper the only way to make sure your tamping is sufficient is to tamp hard. If you try to aim for the lower force you'll occasionally under-tamp.
Hello Jess. I had just written a long winded reply to you when I looked up a name on Google.That made the entire manuscript disappear . I don't think one can retrieve it?.Although I have 2 excellent tampers being a Mussa Artemis with a African Padauk wooden handle (358.2gr) and a Pullman Big Step also with an African Padauk wooden handle (278.5 gr) the Rabbit hole can be extremely enticing 💰Etsy is a company who buys from China but with a higher price ( Perhaps this might give you a better return on damaged merchandise ) I also have a Breville Dual Boiler .I looked at this very hard over a year.I may add that your excellent review of the BDB made my choice easy.Thanks .Greetings HR.
how much wiggle room is there between the base of the tamper and the side wall of the filter basket ? trying to find out if it leaves many grounds along the wall of the basket..Thanks
sorry..I commented like 3hrs after I actually watched the video so I couldn't remember everything..How many grams do you usually dose in? I believe you said you're using the stock BDB basket which is 58mm..It'll kind of give me a reference point..I'm using a 58mm 18g VST ridgeless and usually dose 17g in..
@@GadgetsGearCoffee my sample size of different tampers is pretty small, but before this I had the Espro calibrated tamper and the Rancilio one that came with my Silvia Pro X - but as you said re: workarounds I just wasn't *positive* that I was getting a level tamp each time, and had some grinds along the edge of the basket after tamping...I will say the puck looks prettaayyy, pretty nice after using the 58.5 Force tamper, but not able to say confidently that it's worth the price tag.
@@Markinthemix I guess it would be in the sense of the workflow, you don't have to think as much, not sure about flavour especially if you "tamp properly" with other tampers
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I'll have to report back, the biggest change I've made is stopping the use of a spinning distribution tool and just doing proper WDT and then tamping (on recommendation of Lance Hedrick recently!). Will have to see if it makes a noticeable difference. One less step though!
@@Markinthemix ya those spinning distribution tools are useless, I also saw that video haha about the Espro, with that thick base, I'm wondering if it helped you stay levelled when pushing in, I assume that's what it's for (might make a how to choose a tamper video but I haven't done any research beyond my own experience)
I can't say I notice a massive difference, I want to say the ripple base but it could just be in my head. There are so many little factors that can mess up the puck it's hard to know, I think if you're good in every step, the base is not what's going to affect anything. But I like the ripple to push a little and twist to "distribute" the grinds a bit before pressing down on the puck.
didn't see this, best to check online what other people say but the best best thing to do is grab a caliber and check the diameter yourself since every basket could have slight variations, you can grab one here amzn.to/3njvhiV
Rabbit hole depth: TOO DEEP. I own a Normcore V 4 tamper, it works fine. BUT I just ordered Asso the Jack (because different, plus such beautiful olive wood!), as well as the olive wood version of the tamper you show here. And I also ordered a regular non leveling olive wood one as well. Am I thinking about the Force? Um..... When does one become the Imelda Marcos of espresso toys?
oh my lord, you are further in the rabbit hole lol, I hope I don't get to your level, I am trying to climb back up! Hallppp. The norm core V4 looks amazing! It seems to be a step up from mine but a step down from Force. Does it "stop" you from tamping further depending on what calibrated spring you put in there?
@@GadgetsGearCoffee it was actually just today that I took those additional steps down into that hole. I can always re-sell stuff, right? 😕 Yes with the Normcore it seems you can only go so far, but I don't know what would happen to the puck if I tamped a second time...
@@SimplyTofu if you want the lbs force, norm core, I think it's a bit cheaper too but the wood handle on this one is beautiful. Both have self leveling. Depends what you want, I found I just press to enough pressure with mine and I'm good, it's difficult to over tamp so chances are it's fine if you go with enough pressure to tamp and feel resistance to stop. Would I have gotten the norm core before had I known? Perhaps. Do I love the one I have now? Yes.
@@rolandocalderonguerra2346 I tackle some in my video and explain it, it'll be a matter of preference at that point, going online and forums to see what people like, you're going to get a wild amount of answers/preferences, I feel it's less so "the right choice" and more "the right choice for YOU"
hey Jose! I'm still playing around with things actually - I haven't used my Matow leveler since I want to get rid of it. I have tried using the WDT and then tapping a bit so the ground settle nicely into the basket so I'm working more on my technique in other parts and then using the tamper with the ridges to "level" slightly at the top but levelling just the top wouldn't do anything for the channeling in the puck so I'm working on getting all the steps prior to the actual push tamping "perfect". So short answer: no lol
Hey Jess, first time commenting on your page, but I watched your dual boiler videos. Just want to say, keep up the great informative videos. I agree, this hobby is pricey. I just recently upgraded to an ECM Synchronika, and just ordered that new DF64 grinder, IMS shower screen and baskets. Yup, this hobby definitely gets pricey lol.
haha oh boy, I don't love the design of the BDB, I'm more and more tempted to do the slayer mod as time goes on, I don't know if I'll be upgrading my espresso machine any time soon though just because of the features on it is unbeatable. James Hoffman just released a review for the DF64 grinder yesterday! What tamper are you using? Considering getting a new one?
Oh I forgot to say, also a fellow Canadian here from Toronto 😁. Yeah I had the dual boilers as well for a few weeks, and yes I agree with you that dollar per dollar you just can't beat the features. The reason I upgraded mine is because I just wanted a handmade machine, and ECM Synchronika is up there, anything else would be a Linea mini, but that beast is $7195 CAD, so nvm lol. Regarding my tamper I use a cafelat 58.3mm for my vst baskets, but recently in getting into ims baskets, and I just popped in the new ims shower screen and gasket, day and night difference. I also ordered a custom 58.5mm tamper with cocobolo wood handle on Etsy. A lot of custom woodmakers on there makes really nice tampers. So I've been using the 58.5mm, and it's a very tight tamp, so far I'm really liking it. Yes, I've watched James video on the review of the grinder. It's a very thorough review just like all his videos. I can't wait to get it, so I can tinker with it. For the price, I think it'll be a solid grinder based on other user reviews. I wanted a niche, but that's so hard to get in on a pre-order. Prior to this I had the Eureka Specialita. Also a very solid grinder, but recently the grounds have been clogging constantly, I had to keep taking it apart to clean it. It's not difficult, but had to open it up completely to get to the chute and burrs, hence my decision to get the df64, as it's very simple to get to the burrs for a thorough cleaning.
@@naf4361 hi fellow Canadian! You only had a BDB for a few weeks before upgrading? lol well then. I really hate the BDB design, it's soooooo uninspiring and every piece in my home is chosen intentionally - unfortunately that doesn't apply to this darn BDB. So. Bland. wowwwww a custom tamper, that's pretty darn fancy I'm sure that's going to feel so amazing to use every day! Making the espresso ritual even more special. Good to know about the Eureka Specialista! I was considering getting that at first but I figured I would start slow with the cheapest but effective possible grinder. I backed the Argo grinder (manual hand only) but am hoping they'll release videos to show the quality of the electric part, might consider upgrading to that or I might just eventually bite the bullet and get a niche >.< it's the just the customs and duty additional cost that just put it over what I'd be willing to spend on a grinder.
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Yes the BDB was good, but it was an upgrade from an infuser I had for a while. I learned on that machine, and figured it was time for an upgrade. Once I got the BDB, I told myself I want to get a true prosumer machine, and the Synchronika is the end result. This thing weighs about 80 lbs, and built like a tank. I also like fixing things myself, based on my research, the Synchronika is one of the most well designed e61 dual boiler machine out there with super easy accessibility and great layout to the internals. I know you had a sette prior to the grinder you have now correct? I was contemplating getting the sette270 after I returned the specialita, but after finding out about the DF64, it would be around the same price as a sette270. So I bit the bullet and now waiting on the DF. I really wanted Niche, but it's so hard to get a pre-order, on eBay people are cashing in and charging 2x as much. Also, I agree with you, the duties and custom charges will bring it to around $1400 ish CAD. Another suggestion I have, is to check out this new grinder that's also a zero retention grinder on Kickstarter now called Kopi Deva. It's a very interesting design. I'm tempted to back it. The design looks neat, with zero retention, and flat 64mm burrs, as opposed to Niche conical burrs.
@@naf4361 I did see that grinder! it looked quite interesting indeed, I don't think I'd taste a difference with conical vs flat burrs but for some reason I was just turned off by flat burrs :\ I think I heard something about flat burrs not being as good for espresso at some point and it just stuck in my head but truthfully I'd probably not see/taste a difference. But also flat burrs would technically have more retention than conical though maybe through engineering that can be corrected. I currently do have a Sette 270 but as time goes by I'm more annoyed by it since it's cheaply constructed, I've had to put 2 shims early on, now I have to replace the felt (Baratza sent me one in the mail). I was tempted to back the Kopi Deva though the creator doesn't seem to be a coffee nut, more an engineer nut but I could be wrong. Having backed the Arco already I wanted to wait and see how the Arco faired in reviews and in reality and perhaps upgrade to the electric motor (though I find that very flimsy looking), and the burrs are smaller. I intended to use this only for hand grinding for pour over and keep the settee 270 for espresso but now I don't know what I'm doing with all my coffee equipment.. HAlpppp
@@GadgetsGearCoffee slow going but I’m planning on getting a Decent espresso machine, hopefully a Ditting Lab Sweet, in the short run a Niche & probably a Lagom P64. Before all of that I need to remodel the space a bit. The rabbit hole goes way down!
@@greysuit17 there should be a slide to get there. For real. 🙃 Also never heard of ditting sweet lab! I'd love to have a dedicated coffee space but then maybe I just wouldn't stop filling it with stuff 0_0
Thanks for the video. I do not buy from China (I suggest nobody buy from them they are the enemy of the US) unless I have no choice and then I will, many times, not buy from them then. I do not like the idea of supporting a regime that has open contempt for my way of life. I will gladly save a little longer if needed to make my purchases anywhere but there.
That's fair I respect your ethics. To be fair though, the USA nor Canada are saints either and have done many atrocious things. It's all a matter of perspective. And many things are produced in China (and other countries), I commend you for trying to purchase based on your morals!
2 years later, I GOT THE FORCE TAMPER, is it worth it? th-cam.com/video/koSpjamFLYw/w-d-xo.html
The expensive hobby of coffee, yup, I went down that rabbit hole too. I am upgrading into the 58mm portafilter basket world from a Flair Pro 2. I only make espresso on the weekends and by then I have lost the muscle memory of how hard and even to tamp and it seems to mess with the flow rate/dialing in process. Hopefully with a self-leveling tamper with set pressure will keep one variable consistent like you said. I also could not find much on a rippled base. Some where complaining about coffee ground retention in the ripples and annoying to clean. I will give that Normcore one a try.
This afternoon, I was pleasantly surprised by my Aliexpress delivery of the same tamper that you have. Since getting a new espresso machine, I have gone deep down the rabbit hole. Thanks for doing this video.
Enjoy it :) I love using mine every day
Just got the ripple base and you’re the only one talking about it! I couldn’t really find much other than showing what it looks like after you tamp. Thank you…🙏🏽
feel free to come back and share your experience!
Your stuggle is my struggle. You are amazing. Thank you
I bought it 2 years ago , I love it , this tamper works perfeclty , your review is great. Rgds From Mex.
Hello Jess.Received my Force Tamper a couple of days ago. .Right away it improved my tamping pressure.Hensforth,I can now achieve pressure anywhere from 5 to 11.Fresh coffee used.
Very pleased with it .Greetings .HR.
Stop tempting me 🙈
HelloJess .I just purchased the Force Tamper from Ali Express, for C 228.89.This sale is on until March 26/23.This is the last pricy espresso gadget I have purchased and hopefully closed the rabbit hole.Greetings HR
The force works with the same patent of any automatic center punch, same mechanism, same action fancy expensive price but it is confortable and joyful to use. worth 200 bucks? probably not but still a nice piece for fast and accurate tamping.
About the ripple base. From other information on youtube, the tamping just removes air pockets in the puck and helps prevent channeling. Since when it’s hit from all the pressure of the pump the puck gets smashed anyway. So it probably doesn’t have much affect.
ya I don't feel like I noticed any significant effect, that's not where I'll see improvements (flat vs ripple) I find it interesting that the ripple base exists but not that much info on the effects of it VS other bases.
Can't confirm fully. I have used a rippled base for the last 2 years, and after the espresso is pulled, usually I can still see the rippled surface.
I went down the tamper hole and got the Bravo Tamper which cost me $250cdn if you include the duty charged. I've have had it for 2 weeks and I can say I'll never go back to a regular tamper. This tamper come from Brazil and as a result the choice of wood handles is unique. I might do a video on my channel in the coming months.
I purchased a Breville dual boiler machine late last year partially from content like yours and others. I had a used single group La Cimbali Junior machine previously. I must say, the BDB is a giant step up from that! Amazing value.
Like you, how far down the rabbit hole with gizmos do i go... I just bought a Normcore v4 tamper which has self leveling like yours. Definitely worth it for these self leveling tampers as I could visually see my older Pullman tamper sometimes not perfectly level the puck (my fault obviously).
Switched to a VST 18g basket and changed the shower screen to IMS with the metal shower screen holder. The stock shower screen holder is plastic! I don't like the idea of near boiling water passing through plastic...
I figure we buy these items once and they should last long enough to justify their initial purchase. My last item is a WDT but I'll probably design and 3D print it instead.
Thanks for your amazing videos :)
Breville are harder to repair but not impossible. Having done the slayer mod, I learned a lot about the internals and how it works and I break it down a bit more in my video so hopefully it helps other people too!
Just purchased my machine. This is a difficult journey. Will follow. Keep the content coming.
It's a lot of trial and error! you got this!
I’ve only had my Dual Boiler for a few weeks, I’ll keep the tamper included. Finally dialled in an espresso :) Probably get another tamper later
that's what I did as well! It's good to learn and have fun with all the the included tools at the beginning until you understand what it is you "need" to upgrade to. And if you get this tamper, you know where to find it 😉
Just bought my first machine. I started with Gevi similar to Breville. Wanted to see how much I’d use it before the huge investment and im thinking I should have just got the Breville lol. This seeming works well but I’m loving this Coffee journey so far and I love your channel
I've never heard of a Gevi! Is that from the States? could have gone for the Breville Barista Express to start! But you know what, I just sell my items and then upgrade. I do it all the time, sometimes I even make a profit off of it cuz I'm good at marketing and pricing my items 😉 so no regrets! You may lose a little but considering you used it, it's not really a loss right?
@@GadgetsGearCoffee it’s an Italian brand and it had great reviews. Also Amazon had a $200 coupon so I got it for about $400 figured that was a great deal for a beginner.
hey jess, thanks for the detailed video. So far the only one reviewing this tamper from aliexpress. I'm loving the wood accents much more than normcore's V4, but could you chip in or how much 'pressure' this aliexpress tamper has in its spring? Most alternatives like the normcore comes with different springs with different resistance (lbs) stated, and i'd personally want to have a minimum.
Hey jauzes, thanks for the props! To answer your question, I haven't even played with the depth to lock it in anymore, I just push until I feel a good amount of resistance and that's been working out for me. If you want that precision of the lbs then you won't get that here but ultimately it's about 30lbs pressure and there have been articles about how that doesn't need to be precise how it's hard to over tamp (don't get me wrong I've seen it, people who put their entire weight and hurt their shoulders in the process, that's too much). If the lbs is an absolute requirement for you then this isn't for you.
I only heard of the norm core after I bought mine, norm core looks like a great cheaper option to the force tamper. Though I don't think you get that satisfying click on it, that force tamper reminds me a torque wrench
I caved and bought a force tamper and youtube algos brought me here. I think it's absolutely great but I'm surprised nobody has done a clone... Anyway good job with the videos! Hope you make more espresso videos eg. Turbo shots vs regular shots, PI vs non PI and so on. I'm new to espresso, but have been playing with all these settings on my Decent.
I don't feel I'm qualified enough to go to that length but I do have other coffee gear reviews coming up, just waiting for the pre orders to be fulfilled :)
What's PI btw?
I'm really surprised too about no force tamper dupes! I wouldn't be surprised if I get myself one in the near future.
I also have a cool video idea in the plans I don't think I've seen anyone else do, more a story time type of thing but coffee related, but I'm waiting on the rest of the gear before I make it. You heard it here first 🤫
@@GadgetsGearCoffee PI = Pre-Infusion. The Force Tamper makes great coffee, too bad about the price though. Also just bought a ridgeless VST basket, a bplus screen, have a bluetooth scale... and looking at grinders- what grinder have you got?
Re: qualified, most of the people out there are just trying gear and then giving a happy or sad face from the coffee it makes anyway. Some even skip the face and just do a twenty minute monologue. Just treat it as a vlog, compare things (this vs that) and you'll be fine! The hobby itself already is very entertaining with everyone very curious to try and learn about various gadgets, the bar is low to make something entertaining.
Look forward to seeing more videos from you!
@@jelt lots of opiniated coffee people out there. But the vlog thing is giving me an idea, hmmmmm
I have a sette 270 for now but got a massive upgrade on a pre order. th-cam.com/video/e5shtTh-uqk/w-d-xo.html
I actually have a coffee/espresso playlist on my channel
@@GadgetsGearCoffee What do you have coming in?? That Sette 270 grinder is huge... I have a DF64 and I thought THAT was big!
@@jelt you will need to be subscribed and hit the 🔔 notification to find out :p
Hello Jesse,I ordered the Self Leveling Tamper from Ali Express ,which will arrive at the end of March.However to my surprise .the same tamper arrived at my doorstep 5 days later. It was the all Metal tamper .(Silvery Colour ) I didn't order that .My order had the wooden knob on it.I think that certain sellers on Ali express.undercutting original orders.I went back and forward with a robot type of person.They never answered any question straight forward.I don't like this kind. of business .I will wait till the end of March when my original order arrives. HR
That sucks, you can try disputing the order and then sending proof I can't remember the whole thing but whatever you do, don't click confirm receipt yet that won't give you enough time to dispute and stuff
I love this video, but sadly won't fit my De'longhi 51mm PF. I really need to upgrade to a dual boiler, but I really need to devalue my machine first. Sigh.....
I wish that base came in a different size, have you tried the Normcore v4? That seems to be between this device and the force. I'd love to know your thought/opinion!
I had a Normcore tamper I can't remember which version it also worked fine but I personally like the wood more
@@GadgetsGearCoffee thanks for the honest feedback 🙏🏻
Just discovered your channel! I'm not yet into the espresso game but will eventually (no place for an espresso machine in my apartment). I'm always looking for new stuff to learn about in the coffee world and I didn't even know those self-leveling tamper existed. Like you say it's a pricy hobby but... C'est ça qui est ça!
for your coffee machine in your apt, I feel like if there is a will there is a way! You could always get a roll cart for your coffee machine or get rid of other appliances you don't use?
It really is a pricey hobby. Start small or save up and just go all in. Once I accepted it would be expensive and what I was willing to compromise on or not, I worked my way there and just upgraded slowly. Or not slowly. It hasn't even been a year 0_0
Get a nice matching wood handle bottomless portafilter for your Breville Dual Boiler, check it out here th-cam.com/video/UDDvEIig5zE/w-d-xo.html
Top vid, thanks. Bought this in black before watching your vid but impressed with it so far. One less variable to control and it looks 👌🏻
anything to add? or did I just about cover everything :p
@@GadgetsGearCoffee pretty much covered everything 🙌🏻. For me i wanted something weighty, that looked good, easy to calibrate and held up over time. Was happy to find someone reviewing it! Definitely peaked my interest in the rippled bed, however 😬. Curious to compare. Thanks again. I have the BDB also and still going down the rabbit hole. I no longer bed level, instead just WDT and tamp. Pretty happy with that combo at the minute ✌🏻.
Many a true word spoken here!
Hey! Great review :) this clarify everything on this tamper. I have one question, maybe you'll advise. How about using this tool like a regular manual tamper but just leveled? I mean the depth regulation - I was planning to buy and use it in a way that it never stops me from pushing down (so like a normal manual tamper) but benefit that it is leveled. This way I can feel the coffee puck, will never need to calibrate it and of course will have leveled tamp. What do you think about such approach?
I updated the description a while ago, I don't adjust it anymore to stop at a certain place, I just push until I feel good amount of resistance
What does the puck look like after extraction? Are the ripples still present or does the puck look the same after? To me the ripple mounds are not as compact as the rest of the puck. But, I don’t have or use one. Just what my brain told me without any evidence that what I thought was true. Love the content. Thanks.
Hey Craig! Puck will look the same after extraction, ie after swelling will have a slight shower screen imprint in both cases.
What is the benefit in getting the Force Tamper over the one that you've reviewed here.
cover it all in my force tamper video th-cam.com/video/koSpjamFLYw/w-d-xo.html
Hi there. Great channel you have. I was looking to get this same tamper in the same walnut finish - but cant see the store on alliexpress (coffee town store). I have the oracle BES990 - should I get the same size (58.5). Thanks.
I clicked the link and it shows up properly for me! Try a different browser? As for the BES990, it's an oracle so it is supposed to be the same size (according to Breville's own portafilter production description that fits both machines)
@@GadgetsGearCoffee thank you !!!
Great video, you show 58.5 and 58.35, I have a standard breville dual boiler too, I was always told 58mm but looks like the 58.5mm fits snug, am I correct in saying the 58.5 will fit my standard double.
You saw it with your own eyes in the video!
I can't get into the Aliexpress shipping wait times.
I get that, I practiced my patience haha and to save some money, I don't mind waiting
0:20 what do u think about the calibrated 3bomber tamper (30lbs constant pressure) instead of this first one u showed? Cost way less and seems to be pretty good I guess ☕
that one looks great too! though tamping doesn't have to be an exact 30lbs so I don't see myself getting a new one at this point - if any other viewers are wondering about the tamper CHAMPS is mentioning, s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DEfg6Kr
that is a brand I've seen more and more and they have nice quality affordable coffee gear, did you end up getting it? almost ordered one but noticed they don't have 58.5mm which is what I got so it's a tighter fit in the Breville Dual Boiler basket
I don't think it makes any sense to have a tamper with limiting maximum depth like that. I can't see how it would make it more consistent, if you dose your coffee a little higher or lower (or if your grinder gives out a different amount), use a different basket, or a different coffee (lighter or darker roast) it's going to be compress more or less as a result.
The real Force Tamper is a unique design that you press until it builds up and releases the pressure and uses a knock to compress the coffee consistently, It's kind of like a staple gun mechanism I believe if you've ever used one of those. I just posted a video about the one I just picked up! I might have my Decent v3 self-leveling tamper up for sale soon!
I updated my description a while ago I don't use the depth anymore and just push until I can't
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Ok Cool I didn't see that. Yeah that sounds like the best way to use it.
Great video! Found just in time as I was struggling choosing between The Force, Bravo and Pullman Bigstep tampers. You saved me a pretty penny.
which did you go with?
Cool video - handy to see some of these things in action particularly with the BDB.
I had some drama's with my BDB around the time of this vid. After 3 weeks of ownership it started boiling the espresso shot, and the temp gauge was faulty.
Then after 10 days waiting for it to be fixed, I put my cranky pants on and got the Breville supplier involved... Actually they were fairly good about it, and end of the day people are just doing their job. So I got a new replacement machine... which has been fine since.
Perhaps one of the interesting things though is I do notice differences between the two machines, this one seems to have a slightly lower flow of water at a given pressure - the grinder which comes in the pack also has different tolerances, c'est la vie.
I had issues with the OPV as well. I opened it up and adjusted it. Not easy but do able!
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Handy to know. I might do some research on that - one of the things that attracted me to the machine was it looked like it was designed to be maintainable.
@@MrAlternateTheory the BDB? that's funny cuz most people say the opposite for the BDB compared to other machines actually. It's prosumer so it's not designed to be tinkered around but ultimately, if you know the basics and machines, you can figure it out. At the end of the day, it's got screws and gaskets and valves etc. Pieces that can be purchases and replaced
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I suppose that is true - particularly compared to the Italian machines (my friend got an ECM recently). I was thinking compared to the cheaper machines that hide the screws and more or less make it a nightmare to take any panel off.
_On the topic of the ECM, I can definitely see the advantage there, much quieter machine, just 3x the price_
@@MrAlternateTheory there is a brass piece I believe the OPV you can replace on the BDB that makes it quieter and vibrate less. I didn't bother cuz it's too much trouble and the noise doesn't bother me that much
I'm guessing the extra spring supplied is for greater / lesser spring force? Have you had a chance to change them over and see the difference? Seems weird they should supply two of the exact same spring rate.
the spring is so it can go back to the original state. The other spring is a spare.
Very nice review. I just bought one. :) Thank you. Greetings from Brazil.
Yay enjoy it!
Knowing absolutely nothing about making espresso this all looks like some real equipment heavy craziness. After seeing the tiny cups and once tasting espresso in Spain I'm sticking with My great flavored coffee with like great creamers. You enjoy - -
join the espresso rabbit hole :D 🐰
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Oh I love that reply. It sure looks like a rabbit hole from here. My sweet tooth loaded mouth doesn't care for strong , bitter, blah stuff. I make a cup at home that will just complete Your day.
Wow, that is getting into the realm of espresso high science. I'm just at espresso 101, and only because my girlfriend had an espresso maker when I lived in Seattle.
I will however put some instant in the grinder and get out my trusty Walmart dead-blow hammer/tamper and give it a go. For science! What could go wrong?
Cool video though, calibrated coffee tamper! Who knew?
It's not calibrated though! Since it's not like the force tamper and other similar ones that click and stop at certain lbs force. It's a good step up from what I was using though. Feels quite pro 😎
@@GadgetsGearCoffee And that's why I am working at the espresso 101 level as a class cutting undergrad and you are working on a masters.
Indeed, you even said it was not calibrated for force. I was looking at the vernier scale like graduated lines and thinking/hearing that you self calibrate the device for depth in my wonky head, since that sort of happens. Kind of like that Jedi mind trick we play on ourselves when we fill in the blanks and read right over something because the mind jumps to conclusions. I do bet that must feel very pro though at 55USD a pound. lol With the classy wood handle and cool solid tech design it looks like it will be around well into the next century, so I can see the value. It's also valuable when something brings joy to our favorite rituals. ☕🖖
Hi Jess, how much play is there on the tamper. I have the normcore and there is a ton of play in the tamper itself
what do you mean? the amount you can adjust for the depth?
Wiggle room, like in the basket? Or the actual tamper, yeah, it works fine but I don't think Normcore feels like a precision instrument. It does wobble a bit. The Decent brand tamper is good if you want a nice self leveling tamper, but not a weight calibrated one. I think Bravo tamper works the same way, and is supposed to be nice. Happy Tamper or Normaldose are also interesting options that I think would be good.
I have (had) this one and it wobbled a lot.. it was actually prone to do not really lebel tamps because there was too much play in it… that is why I gave it away
Why bother adjusting depth? If the tamper travel stops too high you won't get sufficient compression, where as if it never hits the stop you'll know you've got good tamping (with the benefit of its self-leveling mechanism compared to a regular tamper). There's no way to over-tamp (it's been tested), so just tamp hard, make sure it doesn't hit the stop and you'll get the best out of this product.
BTW, I used this tamper as my main tamper before I received a Force tamper as a gift and they're both just as effective. The only difference is that you don't need to tamp hard with the Force tamper, so you're less likely to suffer from barista-wrist RSI. I currently use this tamper on occasion with a custom 41.5mm base and a VST 7 gram basket. Works a treat.
I agree! Not long after I got it I updated the description and I have a higher depth range and I just push until I feel some resistance and stop. As for the force tamper, I don't believe it adds power to the tramping action, I thought it was just calibrated so it clicked when you reached set pressure. Like a torque wrench
@@GadgetsGearCoffee
I wasn't suggesting the Force tamper adds power. It just provides consistent and relatively minimal force that's sufficient. With a regular self-leveling tamper the only way to make sure your tamping is sufficient is to tamp hard. If you try to aim for the lower force you'll occasionally under-tamp.
Very good Info on your Self-Leveling Spring push Force tamper.Tomorow I am going to look at some espresso gadget's .I let you know of the result .HR.
Hello Jess. I had just written a long winded reply to you when I looked up a name on Google.That made the entire manuscript disappear .
I don't think one can retrieve it?.Although I have 2 excellent tampers being a Mussa Artemis with a African Padauk wooden handle (358.2gr) and a Pullman Big Step also with an African Padauk wooden handle (278.5 gr) the Rabbit hole can be extremely enticing 💰Etsy is a company who buys from China but with a higher price ( Perhaps this might give you a better return on damaged merchandise ) I also have a Breville Dual Boiler .I looked at this very hard over a year.I may add that your excellent review of the BDB made my choice easy.Thanks .Greetings HR.
I bought this and it's in the mail.
Then I came across the force tamper.
I want the force tamper lol
I know... Don't remind me. I want it too
how much wiggle room is there between the base of the tamper and the side wall of the filter basket ? trying to find out if it leaves many grounds along the wall of the basket..Thanks
I def cover this in the video and show the wiggle room. In my case does not leave a ring after tamping
sorry..I commented like 3hrs after I actually watched the video so I couldn't remember everything..How many grams do you usually dose in? I believe you said you're using the stock BDB basket which is 58mm..It'll kind of give me a reference point..I'm using a 58mm 18g VST ridgeless and usually dose 17g in..
@@CoffeeAndSmoke23 stock basket, 20g light roast, 18-19g med-dark roast
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Great !! Thank you..I've always heard that you can't dose as much when using darker roast
Reporting live from the bottom of the rabbit hole...just unboxed my Force Tamper today 😂🙊
NOOOO you didn't, what was your tamper before this? Don't... TEMPT... MEEEeee. Notice a huge difference?
@@GadgetsGearCoffee my sample size of different tampers is pretty small, but before this I had the Espro calibrated tamper and the Rancilio one that came with my Silvia Pro X - but as you said re: workarounds I just wasn't *positive* that I was getting a level tamp each time, and had some grinds along the edge of the basket after tamping...I will say the puck looks prettaayyy, pretty nice after using the 58.5 Force tamper, but not able to say confidently that it's worth the price tag.
@@Markinthemix I guess it would be in the sense of the workflow, you don't have to think as much, not sure about flavour especially if you "tamp properly" with other tampers
@@GadgetsGearCoffee I'll have to report back, the biggest change I've made is stopping the use of a spinning distribution tool and just doing proper WDT and then tamping (on recommendation of Lance Hedrick recently!). Will have to see if it makes a noticeable difference. One less step though!
@@Markinthemix ya those spinning distribution tools are useless, I also saw that video haha
about the Espro, with that thick base, I'm wondering if it helped you stay levelled when pushing in, I assume that's what it's for (might make a how to choose a tamper video but I haven't done any research beyond my own experience)
Base on your experience which one better? Ripple base or flat base?
I can't say I notice a massive difference, I want to say the ripple base but it could just be in my head. There are so many little factors that can mess up the puck it's hard to know, I think if you're good in every step, the base is not what's going to affect anything.
But I like the ripple to push a little and twist to "distribute" the grinds a bit before pressing down on the puck.
For IMS filter 51.5 better 51.5 normcore or 51.8 tamper of the video?
didn't see this, best to check online what other people say but the best best thing to do is grab a caliber and check the diameter yourself since every basket could have slight variations, you can grab one here amzn.to/3njvhiV
Rabbit hole depth: TOO DEEP. I own a Normcore V 4 tamper, it works fine. BUT I just ordered Asso the Jack (because different, plus such beautiful olive wood!), as well as the olive wood version of the tamper you show here. And I also ordered a regular non leveling olive wood one as well. Am I thinking about the Force? Um..... When does one become the Imelda Marcos of espresso toys?
oh my lord, you are further in the rabbit hole lol, I hope I don't get to your level, I am trying to climb back up! Hallppp.
The norm core V4 looks amazing! It seems to be a step up from mine but a step down from Force. Does it "stop" you from tamping further depending on what calibrated spring you put in there?
@@GadgetsGearCoffee it was actually just today that I took those additional steps down into that hole. I can always re-sell stuff, right? 😕 Yes with the Normcore it seems you can only go so far, but I don't know what would happen to the puck if I tamped a second time...
@@GadgetsGearCoffee would you recommend this or the normcore v4?
@@SimplyTofu if you want the lbs force, norm core, I think it's a bit cheaper too but the wood handle on this one is beautiful. Both have self leveling. Depends what you want, I found I just press to enough pressure with mine and I'm good, it's difficult to over tamp so chances are it's fine if you go with enough pressure to tamp and feel resistance to stop. Would I have gotten the norm core before had I known? Perhaps. Do I love the one I have now? Yes.
@@GadgetsGearCoffee yes, I’m sold on the wood handle too😂. Would have wanted the normcore but it’s not as nice
Is good or bad tamper?
I like it, I still use it every day :) have not felt the need to get another
@@GadgetsGearCoffee first thnks for answer i see so many different base flat curve and more what model recomend please?
@@rolandocalderonguerra2346 I tackle some in my video and explain it, it'll be a matter of preference at that point, going online and forums to see what people like, you're going to get a wild amount of answers/preferences, I feel it's less so "the right choice" and more "the right choice for YOU"
Hey Jess!
Do you use a leveler with this tamper?
hey Jose! I'm still playing around with things actually - I haven't used my Matow leveler since I want to get rid of it. I have tried using the WDT and then tapping a bit so the ground settle nicely into the basket so I'm working more on my technique in other parts and then using the tamper with the ridges to "level" slightly at the top but levelling just the top wouldn't do anything for the channeling in the puck so I'm working on getting all the steps prior to the actual push tamping "perfect". So short answer: no lol
@@GadgetsGearCoffee correct, technique es key. Maybe a puck rake will be a better tool
YOU'RE SOOO PRETTY
Hey Jess, first time commenting on your page, but I watched your dual boiler videos. Just want to say, keep up the great informative videos. I agree, this hobby is pricey. I just recently upgraded to an ECM Synchronika, and just ordered that new DF64 grinder, IMS shower screen and baskets. Yup, this hobby definitely gets pricey lol.
haha oh boy, I don't love the design of the BDB, I'm more and more tempted to do the slayer mod as time goes on, I don't know if I'll be upgrading my espresso machine any time soon though just because of the features on it is unbeatable. James Hoffman just released a review for the DF64 grinder yesterday! What tamper are you using? Considering getting a new one?
Oh I forgot to say, also a fellow Canadian here from Toronto 😁. Yeah I had the dual boilers as well for a few weeks, and yes I agree with you that dollar per dollar you just can't beat the features. The reason I upgraded mine is because I just wanted a handmade machine, and ECM Synchronika is up there, anything else would be a Linea mini, but that beast is $7195 CAD, so nvm lol.
Regarding my tamper I use a cafelat 58.3mm for my vst baskets, but recently in getting into ims baskets, and I just popped in the new ims shower screen and gasket, day and night difference. I also ordered a custom 58.5mm tamper with cocobolo wood handle on Etsy. A lot of custom woodmakers on there makes really nice tampers. So I've been using the 58.5mm, and it's a very tight tamp, so far I'm really liking it.
Yes, I've watched James video on the review of the grinder. It's a very thorough review just like all his videos. I can't wait to get it, so I can tinker with it. For the price, I think it'll be a solid grinder based on other user reviews. I wanted a niche, but that's so hard to get in on a pre-order. Prior to this I had the Eureka Specialita. Also a very solid grinder, but recently the grounds have been clogging constantly, I had to keep taking it apart to clean it. It's not difficult, but had to open it up completely to get to the chute and burrs, hence my decision to get the df64, as it's very simple to get to the burrs for a thorough cleaning.
@@naf4361 hi fellow Canadian! You only had a BDB for a few weeks before upgrading? lol well then. I really hate the BDB design, it's soooooo uninspiring and every piece in my home is chosen intentionally - unfortunately that doesn't apply to this darn BDB. So. Bland.
wowwwww a custom tamper, that's pretty darn fancy I'm sure that's going to feel so amazing to use every day! Making the espresso ritual even more special. Good to know about the Eureka Specialista! I was considering getting that at first but I figured I would start slow with the cheapest but effective possible grinder.
I backed the Argo grinder (manual hand only) but am hoping they'll release videos to show the quality of the electric part, might consider upgrading to that or I might just eventually bite the bullet and get a niche >.< it's the just the customs and duty additional cost that just put it over what I'd be willing to spend on a grinder.
@@GadgetsGearCoffee Yes the BDB was good, but it was an upgrade from an infuser I had for a while. I learned on that machine, and figured it was time for an upgrade. Once I got the BDB, I told myself I want to get a true prosumer machine, and the Synchronika is the end result. This thing weighs about 80 lbs, and built like a tank. I also like fixing things myself, based on my research, the Synchronika is one of the most well designed e61 dual boiler machine out there with super easy accessibility and great layout to the internals.
I know you had a sette prior to the grinder you have now correct? I was contemplating getting the sette270 after I returned the specialita, but after finding out about the DF64, it would be around the same price as a sette270. So I bit the bullet and now waiting on the DF. I really wanted Niche, but it's so hard to get a pre-order, on eBay people are cashing in and charging 2x as much. Also, I agree with you, the duties and custom charges will bring it to around $1400 ish CAD.
Another suggestion I have, is to check out this new grinder that's also a zero retention grinder on Kickstarter now called Kopi Deva. It's a very interesting design. I'm tempted to back it. The design looks neat, with zero retention, and flat 64mm burrs, as opposed to Niche conical burrs.
@@naf4361 I did see that grinder! it looked quite interesting indeed, I don't think I'd taste a difference with conical vs flat burrs but for some reason I was just turned off by flat burrs :\ I think I heard something about flat burrs not being as good for espresso at some point and it just stuck in my head but truthfully I'd probably not see/taste a difference. But also flat burrs would technically have more retention than conical though maybe through engineering that can be corrected.
I currently do have a Sette 270 but as time goes by I'm more annoyed by it since it's cheaply constructed, I've had to put 2 shims early on, now I have to replace the felt (Baratza sent me one in the mail). I was tempted to back the Kopi Deva though the creator doesn't seem to be a coffee nut, more an engineer nut but I could be wrong. Having backed the Arco already I wanted to wait and see how the Arco faired in reviews and in reality and perhaps upgrade to the electric motor (though I find that very flimsy looking), and the burrs are smaller. I intended to use this only for hand grinding for pour over and keep the settee 270 for espresso but now I don't know what I'm doing with all my coffee equipment.. HAlpppp
How deep? I’m building a coffee lab/cafe in my house.
😂 oh my. What makes it a lab? What equipment do you have/will you have?
@@GadgetsGearCoffee slow going but I’m planning on getting a Decent espresso machine, hopefully a Ditting Lab Sweet, in the short run a Niche & probably a Lagom P64. Before all of that I need to remodel the space a bit.
The rabbit hole goes way down!
@@greysuit17 and to get there do you close your eyes and jump in a hole from your first floor? 😂 🐰
@@GadgetsGearCoffee multiple times a day
@@greysuit17 there should be a slide to get there. For real. 🙃 Also never heard of ditting sweet lab! I'd love to have a dedicated coffee space but then maybe I just wouldn't stop filling it with stuff 0_0
why do i find you so dang attractive !?
Thanks for the video. I do not buy from China (I suggest nobody buy from them they are the enemy of the US) unless I have no choice and then I will, many times, not buy from them then. I do not like the idea of supporting a regime that has open contempt for my way of life. I will gladly save a little longer if needed to make my purchases anywhere but there.
That's fair I respect your ethics. To be fair though, the USA nor Canada are saints either and have done many atrocious things. It's all a matter of perspective. And many things are produced in China (and other countries), I commend you for trying to purchase based on your morals!
To hell with the tamper..... you are extremely cute.