Gaggia RI9380/49 Classic Evo Pro Espresso Machine, Thunder Black, Small

I love espresso. I had scheduled 3 weeks staycation to spend at home with my wife and she gave me her blessing to create my own barista station with anything I would like. My mission was to watch many videos and order from amazon all that was needed to accomplish this. I did manage to create a very functional setup.After many trials by ordering, trying and returning several items, I have concluded to the following listing, with categories as essential, nice to have and optional, along with my commentary.The reason of this review is to provide you my weeks of extensive research, review, testing and evaluation of several products and give you some options to consider. I'll not make any money out of this neither get any benefit besides the satisfaction that I am able to help you.Essential: Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Evo Pro, Small, Brushed Stainless Steel ~ $399https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RQ3NL76No other espresso machine comes near to this most awesome qualifications for a home barista, reliability, longevity and quality than this little monster. If you can find it under $400, it is a steal. I appreciate the upgrades from the previous models and the excellent online resources that can guide you to the right direction. They are so many youtubers that can teach you how to use it properly. I am extremely happy with this purchase.Essential: CUISINART Coffee Grinder, Electric Burr One-Touch Automatic Grinder with18-Position Grind Selector, Stainless Steel, DBM-8P1 ~ $59.95https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00018RRRKI already owned this Grinder. It is working very well and with the following optional mod, you can make it to produce even finer grind. By accomplishing this, you can save $$$.Optional: Romeda Aluminum Tape, 2 inch x 65 Feet Foil Tape (3.9 mil), Insulation Adhesive Metal Tape, High Temperature Heavy Duty HVAC Tape, Silver Tape Aluminum Foil Tape for Ductwork, Dryer Vent, HVAC ~ $7.59https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BHWMSTDI found a way to mod my grinder (check online for a instructions of how to do that) using this Aluminum tape and produce finer espresso grind.Nice to have: 1LB – Patented Airtight Container | Multi-use Vacuum Container Works as Smell Proof Containers for Ground Coffee and Coffee Bean Containers. White Floral ~ $17.76https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RJZRMP8When I open a big bag of coffee, I use this container to hold all the excess.Essential: Coffee Gator Coffee Canister, Stainless Steel Airtight Coffee Containers for Ground Coffee with Date-Tracker, CO2-Release Valve, Measuring Scoop & Travel Jar - Medium, 16 oz, Silver ~ $17.99https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014HG645Mif you want to have fresh beans, you need a place to put them.Nice to have: Pyrex Prepware 1-Cup Measuring Cup, Clear with Red Measurements ~ $9.97https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000CFMZNYou'll find out that is nice to have a container to collect the water before you pull a shot from your machine and not using the drip tray. It is very versatile and can also be used to fill the machine with filter water from your refrigerator.Essential: Milk Frothing Pitcher 350ml/600ml/900ml/1500ml (12oz/20oz/32oz/50oz) Steaming Pitchers Stainless Steel Milk/Coffee/Cappuccino/Latte Art Barista Steam Pitchers Milk Jug Cup with Art Pen,12oz ~ $9.58https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KFYXTRRYou'll use it every single time you pull a shot to get the steam out of the single boiler and also when you ready to froth milk.Nice to have: Empty Amber Glass Spray Bottles - 2 Pack - Each Large 16oz Refillable Bottle is Great for Essential Oils, Plants, Cleaning Solutions, Hair Mister - Durable Nozzle w/Fine Mist and Stream Setting ~ $19.98https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G98Y1BABefore I place the coffee beans into the grinder, I spay them by using this bottle with water and eliminate all the static that can be produced during the grinding process. I owned these bottles and was able to use them for that purpose. Of Course you can get a much smaller one...Essential: Transparent Dosing Cup 58mm, Antistatic Plastic Barista Coffee Powder Espresso Dosing Cup Sniffing Mug Powder Feeder Compatible with all 58mm Portafilter Baskets 58mm US ~ $7.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BPSHY4GJAfter the grinding is over, I use this cup to measure 16g of grinded espresso beans on the digital scale and then add them on the portafilter (I do add the 51mm paper filter first).Essential: Greater Goods Digital Espresso & Coffee Scale - 750 x 0.1g, Mini Scale with 6 Units for Jewelry, Coins, Herbs, Food and Small Precise Things ~ $14.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SJTXGN7A perfect espresso shot is a measured espresso shot. The only way to know if you produce good coffee is by trying, adjusting, measuring and dialing your accessories. This little scale does everything that you needed for very well and is well worth it.Essential: 58mm Portafilter Funnel, Espresso Dosing Funnel with Magnetic, Lightweight Aluminum Espresso Funnel, 58mm Dosing Funnel ~ $8.97https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJJXPNQTAfter you place the grinded coffee from the measuring cup to the portafilter, you using this magnetic funnel to contain the coffee into the designated area.Essential: NEOUZA Coffee WDT Distribution Tool Accessories, Aluminum Handle, 0.4mm 6 Stainless Needles, Espresso Powder Stirrer ~ $9.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BW3R282HEveryone is using this little tool to distribute the coffee and avoid channeling.Nice to have: Francis King Home Barista Espresso Tamping Station - Portafilter Stand for Single or Double Spout - Raised Tamp Mat - Essential Espresso Accessories ~ $9.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B4VSBLZ2I made a decision to go to this inexpensive tamping station for two reasons. One that is just helps me handling the portafilter on an elevated and secure location and two that is pretty simple to clean and use. And yes, it was cheaper and goes with the aluminum style with the rest of the units on my setup.Essential: Normcore 58.5mm Coffee Tamper V4 - Spring-loaded Tamper with 15lb / 25lb / 30lbs Replacement Springs - Anodized Aluminum Handle and Stand - Stainless Steel Flat Base ~ $43.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BTLP4P1This is the final moment: The portafilter is on the tamping station after you have used all the prior tools and you ready to use your tamper. I have conteplated to use a distributor and never really appreciate what it does. I found that by tamping the portafilter left and right, it places the grind in position and by using this precise tamper it does the job fine. Yes, that tamper is very well made and it is no surpise that is #1 on sales and reviews. I insert the 58mm paper filter on the portafilter. I run for 4 sec the machine to get the water into the boiler and ready for extraction by wiping the head and then I insert the portafilter.Nice to have: Knock Box for Coffee Grounds - Innovative Barista Accessory with Improved Handling - Coffee Knock Box for Espresso Machine, Black ~ $19.95https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QTCXTK5You can either use this or a trash can or the glass pitcher after you completed your espresso shot. I found this unit very well build, great quality.Essential: Magnetic Hooks 304 Stainless Steel Hooks Heavy Duty Magnets Hanging Hooks for Refrigerator Grill Toolbox Cabins Outdoor,Cruise Essentials Camper Accessories,4pack(Silver,1.3in-2) ~ $16.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRL582NPI personally, like when is over, to have my portafilter hanging on the side of my machine. It is personal preference and that hook allows me to do that.Essential (Cleaning): Aieve Coffee Cleaning Brush Set, 7 Pcs Espresso Coffee Brush Kit includes Cleaning Towel, Wooden Coffee Grinder Brush, Nylon Brush for Coffee Pot, Pasta Maker ~ $9.59https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CYGT9VVJWill use when most of these brushes when is time for cleaning, either your grinder, or the table or the machine. Haven't use all of them yet.Essential (Cleaning): 58-Milimeter Backflush Insert, Metal ~ $5.97https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0016C8ZO4Will use when is time for cleaning. Haven't done that yet.Essential (Cleaning): Urnex Espresso Machine Cleaning Powder - 566 grams - Cafiza Professional Espresso Machine Cleaner ~ $16.98https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001418KNSWill use when is time for cleaning. Haven't done that yet.Essential (Cleaning): Gaggia Decalcifier Descaler Solution 250ml (3 Bottles) ~ $16.95https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LIEI7TMWill use when is time for cleaning. Haven't done that yet.Nice to have: Aieve Coffee Paper Filter Compatible with Breville Barista Espresso Coffee Maker, 58 mm Espresso Filter Puck Screen Portafilter Paper (400 Pcs) ~ $8.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5DP647FKeeps the head of the machine clean and helps with the distribution of the water. I prefer to use a paper filter vs a metal and that way I don't have to chase it out of the puck bucket when is time for cleaning.Nice to have: Aieve Coffee Paper Filter Compatible with Breville Barista Espresso Coffee Maker, 400 Pcs 51 mm Espresso Filter Puck Screen Portafilter Paper ~ $7.99https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B5DPVDW7For the bottom of the portafilter. Will help with the distribution of the water, a sweeter taste easier cleanup.Nice to have: European Style Tea Coffee Cup Set Black Gold Gradual Vintage Ceramic Cup Coffee Mug With Spoon&Saucer Set Used for Latte, Americano, Cappuccino, Tea, Beer (2 pack) ~ $29.99https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B093GS6J6RAfter all this hard work, it is nice to have something to appreciate your good coffee.Nice to have: Hobnail Glass Tumbler with Bamboo Lids and Straws, Borosilicate Iced Coffee Cup 22 oz/ 650ML for Smoothie Juice Hot and Cold Drinks ~ $17.98https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CYGSWRHKWhen is time to make my fredo espresso or any other iced coffee style, that is my goto cup.Nice to have: Zulay Kitchen Executive Series Milk Frother Wand - Upgraded & Improved Stand - Ideal Coffee Gift - Coffee Frother Handheld Foam Maker For Lattes - Electric Milk Frother Handheld For Cappuccino ~ $19.99https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074ZL35DHTo use when is time to make a cold froth. I use it in conjuction with my milk frothing pitcher (after is placed on the freezer for couple minutes to get even colder temperature)Optional: UPKOCH 2Pcs Boxes filter paper storage box coffee station organizer for countertop coffee filter organizer espresso filter paper coffee filter case filter basket Italian plastic white ~ $9.49https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNSNMPPGIt is nice to have a place for the two 58 & 51 filters. The choice is yours if you want these boxes or another container.Optional: Flat Plug Power Strip, 6 Ft Ultra Thin Flat Extension Cord, 3 Outlets 3 USB Ports(2 USB C) Multi Plug Outlet Extender with No Surge Protector for Cruise Ship, Travel, Dorm Room Essentials ~ $9.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BM3K436MIt is nice to have all your appliances connected without showing all the cables around.Optional: Mind Reader 6 Compartment Upright Breakroom Coffee Condiment and Cup Storage Organizer, Black ~ $16.49https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0169ZDUSIVery nice organizer for all your essentials when you ready to go to work.Optional: Dish Drying Mats for Kitchen Counter Coffee Mat Under Sink Mats for Kitchen Waterproof Dish Mat Drying Kitchen Mat Bar Mats for Countertop Coffee Bar Accessories (Black A, 12"*14.5") ~ $7.49https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B9B1NWH2It keeps the counter clean and your wife happy.Optional: DK177 Coffee Mat Coffee Bar Mat Hide Stain Absorbent Drying Mat with Waterproof Rubber Backing Fit Under Coffee Maker Coffee Machine Coffee Pot Espresso Machine Coffee Bar Accessories-19"x12" ~ $7.98https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BW7L7DSXLike the one above, after you hand wash some of the units, you can let them dry on this Mat before you put them away.Optional: 3 Pieces Kitchen Towel Hooks Round Adhesive Dish Towel Hook Premium Chrome Finish & Easy Installation Wall Mount Hand Towel Hook Ideal as Bathroom, Shower or Outdoor Towel Holders ~ $6.98https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099S55BD9Where do you want to have your towel placed? In your machine? In your counter? In the mat? or hanging? It is up to you.Optional: eufy by Anker, HomeVac H11,Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner,Ultra-Lightweight 1.2lbs,5500Pa Suction Power,USB Charging, for Home Cleaning ~ $59.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MQB9BF5From time to time, I find myself using a wetted paper towel to pick up what is left from the coffee grinds on the mats. This little and handy vacuum allowed me to keep my area clean and also connected to the power strip that is already there with the other units. Remember that keeping your area clean before, during and after your shot is complete, is very important.Hope you find this extensive review of various items helpful.Despite what you hear from many people about the boiler issues or other minor complains, this machine is amazing, it has past the test of time and will be reliable for years to come if you take care of it.I can tell you that by using it every day, I found myself more comfortable and happy with the results and my learning experience is awesome and wish you the same.Have a nice cup of coffee and enjoy a blessed day.Update Aug 8I have made some extra purchases and want to give you an update:Optional: Professional Espresso Distribution Tool - Adjustable Depth and Dual Head Coffee Tamper - Stainless Steel, Double-Sided Coffee Leveler - Espresso Machine Accessories (Gun Metal, 58.5mm) ~ $11.49https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CM68DDYRI like this little unit that have a leveler and a heavy tamper all in one for an excellent price and didn't want to skip. One think I like is that without placing extra pressure, the weight of the unit itself it adjust the pressure of the portafilter. So far is an excellent choice 2 for 1 and highly recommended.Optional: IMS 55 mm Precision Group Head Screen - GA 200 IM ~ $13.93https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WWM6O40Lots of reviews online recommended this screen for a better water flow. I did it but I cannot tell a difference so far.Optional: E&B Lab NT (NanoTech) Double Espresso Portafilter Basket 58mm Ridgeless (18) ~ $26.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BF7R2RXTSame like the previous item, i made the upgrade just because everyone says it is good filter. I haven't notice a difference yet.Nice to have: Group Gasket-E61 (Red), Silicone, E61 8mm, SYNCHKG060251 ~ $6.04https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OX59S5QRecommended upgrade. It does make the installation of the portafilter on the head much easier and is a very cheap upgrade.Nice to have: Ibyx Elegant Sliding Tray for Your Coffee Maker & Heavy Kitchen Appliances - Patent Pending - Sturdy, Slides Easily from Under The Cabinet - Rolling Appliance Tray for Countertop with Wheels 16"x13" ~ $39.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C1KSG5Q5Recommended upgrade. It places the unit under my cabinets and when I want to fill the water, I just pull them out.Nice to have: Espresso Cup with Handle, Stainless Steel Espresso Accessories, Double Spout Metal Measuring Cup with Dual Scale, Espresso Shot pitcher with V-Shaped Mouth, 3.4OZ/100ML ~ $8.99https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLP441W8It is silver and a little cup that is nice to have when you make a cold coffee like a fredo espresso.

I've been enjoying coffee for almost sixty years.I've worked as a barista in my early twenties. I know my way around coffee; particularly when selecting beans; the roast; how to get the best grind using the best grinder; how to achieve the best cup of coffee using almost every conceivable method and device.These days I am prefer a delicious, smooth-bodied, crema-rich cappuccino when I wake up. Unfortunately, health concerns have limited me to just one cup of coffee a day, so I make damn sure I enjoy the best tasting espresso or cappuccino every morning.Ordinarily, I would have been using my time-tested and still reliable 1968 La Pavoni espresso machine. This machine took me over a year to master and once I had it down, no other espresso machine even came close to pulling the finest tasting espresso or caps you could drink.But the La Pavoni is a bulky and intensively time-consuming machine to use; especially in the morning once you're out of bed and your brain still isn't operating at 100% until AFTER you've enjoyed your coffee.I needed to find and purchase an interim type of counter-type of espresso machine. Oh, I will still use my La Pavoni for that special occasion, because there still isn't, in my opinion, a machine that can produce a finer tasting espresso or cappuccino than the La Pavoni.After about a month of intensive research, which included reading and evaluating every review and recommendation I could find, the Gaggia Classic Pro is the model that kept coming up as the best in its price range EVERYWHERE.And then I started looking at the Youtube videos. Almost to a video, it was the Gaggia Classic Pro that was heralded as THE espresso machine to buy in its price range. And another surprise: the Gaggia Classic Pro had been receiving this endorsement going back decades.Another big plus: Gaggia is an Italian company that has the inside scoop on coffee...that's all they do. They make coffee machines.I decided to purchase the Gaggia Classic Pro...and man oh man was this ever the right choice.It did take a couple of tries, even from this seasoned user, to appreciate all the ins and outs of this machine. The machine is far more sophisticated than it looks.But can it produce a satisfying espresso or cappuccino? And can it steam or foam up milk like no one's business (providing you know what you're doing and you don't scald your milk...and especially if you have a talent making espresso art)?I only use bottled water so as not to build up sediment inside the machine. I like to keep my equipment cleaned, well maintained, and operational at all times. You need to understand how this machine is put together in order to master all of its secrets.My suggestion is: check out the HUGE volume of Gaggia Classic Pro Youtube videos online. They will teach you everything you need to know in order to get your Gaggia to produce the type of enjoyable espresso or cappuccino you like. But you do need to understand how the boiler and the rest of the components work together if you really want to achieve the finest results from the Gaggia Classic Pro.I have paired my Gaggia Classic Pro with the latest model of Baratza's burr grinders in order to affect the perfect grind of the whole beans I use. And, by the way, I grind only the amount of beans I need for that morning's coffee. The balance of my 1Lb once a month purchase of whole beans are kept in a sealed, but valved container in order to release the CO^2 that coffee beans give off.I set the burrs to the finest possible grind setting. I have found with the Gaggia Classic Pro, one of the secrets is to NOT tamp down the coffee to the point of a severe compression. Make sure the amount of coffee is evenly dispersed and then lightly tamp it down. Don't forget to run hot water through the group head in order to preheat it.I also recommend purchasing an inexpensive hand held timer. You'll need it. You'll understand why after viewing many of the Youtube videos featured about the Gaggia Classic Pro.When you're ready to make your cup, place a preheated cup under the group head and let 'er rip. When the light goes off, press the OFF button. Then follow the Youtube recommendations for using the steam wand, otherwise you will run out of pressure before you obtain the type of steamed or foamed milk you need.And make sure you clean off the steam wand IMMEDIATELY after use and then let a blast of steam go through the wand to unclog it on its inside. And always use bottled water. NEVER use tap water with a Gaggia Classic Pro.If you do, your machine will die an early death in a couple of years instead of lasting a couple of decades.I recommend the Gaggia Classic Pro with a full five star rating. It is, without any doubt, the finest espresso machine anyone can purchase in this price range. It offers superior workmanship made from superior components and materials; it is a remarkably well-engineered device; it is an attractive model to place on your kitchen counter; it is easy to clean and maintain; and it will produce for you the tastiest espressos and cappuccinos at home for you to enjoy.