Owning the Rancilio Silvia M Espresso Machine
Please Note: This is the most current Rancilio Silvia M, featuring an updated black brew group cover, stainless steel steam wand, and including a 58mm wood handle tamper.
Updated for energy efficiency and more ergonomic use, the Rancilio Silvia M is the most recent entry in Rancilio's long line of home espresso machines. The Silivia M features an insulated lead-free brass boiler that reduces energy consumption by 8% when in standby mode. The main power switch has also been updated with two separate lights to indicate the status of the machine and the heating element. Famous for its status as the premier entry level machine for home espresso enthusiasts, the Silvia's 10 years of superior performance have cultivated a reputation of excellence. To ensure heat retention and lasting quality, the Silvia M features a forged marine brass group head and boiler. The large 12-ounce boiler also allows for steam capacity that is unparalleled by other machines at this size and price. An iron frame, housed by brushed stainless steel, provides durability as well as sleek, Italian style. Known for taking a bit of patience to master, Silvia owners can attest to quality of the machine and the espresso it produces. For best results while brewing, we strongly recommend pairing the Silvia M with a capable grinder such as Rancilio's own Rocky and Rocky Doserless Grinders. The Silvia M comes standard with a 7 gram coffee scoop, a plastic tamper, and two filter baskets (single and double). The machine is backed by an extended warranty for a total of two years of warranty coverage.
Some of the most crucial elements for producing high quality espresso are influenced by the Style, Size and Construction of the portafilter. Style: This portafilter is designed like a commercial machine and works in the same way. The coffee is ground fine and is tamped (pressed) firmly into place. Size: The size of the portafilter is also the same as a commercial machine. Is has a large diameter (58 mm) so that the water is distributed evenly over a wide surface area. Construction: The portafilter is made up of two parts, the handle and the filter holder. The handle is made of high quality plastic. The heavy chrome plated brass filter holder keeps the temperature stable throughout the entire brewing process, therefore producing a quality cup of espresso. This is the portion of the machine that the portafilter locks into. It is made of chrome plated marine brass which provides a superior brewing environment through maximum heat stability and component longevity. The Silvia's boiler is made of marine grade brass and has the largest volume (12 oz.) of any home machine in its class. This large volume produces the best steaming power and recycle time when brewing multiple espressos. The brass construction resists pitting and scale build up for long lasting durability.
The Silvia has the same switches as their famed S20 series commercial units. There are four snap-acting rocker arm switches. The main power switch is located in the center by itself. When this is turned on the heating element is activated. A separate orange ready light will then turn on. When the light goes off the machine is at operating temperature. The top left switch operates the pump and is also known as the brew switch. Turn on to start the brewing process and off when you are done. The middle button on the left is for dispensing hot water. The bottom left switch activates the steam function. When this is turned on the boiler will heat up to steam temperature. Then turn the steam/water knob located on the side of the machine and start frothing. The Silvia now comes standard with an articulating stainless steel steam wand, allowing a greater range of motion and making it much easier to use. The three-way solenoid valve is a commercial feature that relieves the water pressure off the coffee when the brew switch is turned off. This serves two functions; it dries out the coffee to prevent dripping and makes it easy to knock the coffee out of the portafilter with one knock.
