I waited to buy for a very long time-not wanting to spend the money, but insisting on long term quality. One option (among others already discussed here) shown to me was the Spanish made Cunill Tranquilo:

http://sovranastore.com/esgrin.html

I know it's served the detail orientated suggestor well for years. That said, I finally opted for the Mazzer Mini to go with my Expobar Brewtus. I really prefer to do these things once if possible.
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I think the Cunill/Espagnas are well regarded but I know the Mazzer is a once-per-lifetime home machine. You won't be disappointed.

How do you like the Brewtus? How long have you had it?
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Thus far with the Mazzer-I'm very happy. Easy to adjust for whatever bean and seems built tank solid-which is what I was looking for.

As to the Expobar Brewtus-the very first machine I considered was the Silvia. But it seemed most (or many) who bought the Silvia, while very happy with it, consistently stepped up. So, to avoid that-I made 2 steps instead of one, though more expensive at the offset, I thought cheaper then having bought 2 units over time. I REALLY like it. Easy to operate and consistently produces what I'm looking for. It's the older model-non PID with a vibratory pump versus the third version (with PID and rotary). But with the the second versions introductory price and performance, a great value. My shot of choice is the Malabar Gold. I really need to try the Black Cat.
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Note on Mazzer. Mine, from delivery, was very stiff handling on micro adjustments. The fineness ring was not able to be turned without one hand on the screw-in lever/handle and the other on the base of the machine. I always figured that's the way it was.

After I replaced the burrs a few months back the adjuster got even more difficult. I re-removed the top collar and meticulously cleaned the threads with a lint-free cloth and some mineral oil. Another few drops of mineral oil on the threads before reassembly and now all is smooth as silk. :-)

Expobars seem to be built for the long haul; those who have them keep them.
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Thank you for the tip! I'll keep that in mind. I'm still in the learning curve/process with this but, that's my thought approach with most endeavours since most things, on many levels, can always be better.

Again, thank you.
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