[greglepore]

Both are fine machines, I'd prefer the Silvia just for the knowledge base, but the Francis has style points and saves space. Add a PID to either one, either initally or diy-it really does make a world of difference (PID is digital temp control with a predictive device, whereas the machines use a mechanical thermostat or pressurestat with a wide deadband out of the box).

Personally, I have an NS Oscar that I bought used for the cost of a new Sylvia or a little less. I added a PID for around 50 bucks and an hour of my time, and its wonderful-leave it on 24-7, its plumbed in, always ready to go. Its overkill as I don't make milk drinks-the only real reason to have a heat exchanger machine-but its awfully robust and easy to service. The footprint is way big for you, probably.

The bigger issue really is the grinder-you can make decent coffee with an average machine and a good grinder, but not the other way around. Rancillio Rocky, NS MCI (what I have-check out the single serving one at chriscoffee.com) or something of that ilk, new or ebay'd. You'll end up spending as much for the grinder as the machine. Yes, you can buy ground coffee, but it rapidly degrades (like overnight) so you'll need one for quality shots.