Beginner-friendly, affordable espresso machine: I decided to try a home espresso machine after using my aunt's $999.95 Breville Barista Touch when I visited her in Texas several months ago. It was impressive, but almost $1,000 was too much for something I might not end up using very often. The Breville Bambino is the industry standard for entry-level espresso machines, but $299.95 was still pricey for me so I explored alternatives. Very favorable reviews from YouTube coffee aficionados and the resident barista at Home & Gardens, good marks for customer service, a one-year warranty and an attractive $150 price led me to the Wirsh espresso machine. I purchased one to see if making espresso drinks would become a supplement to my usual pour-over coffee routine.

The model is called "Wirsh Home Barista Plus" and it is compact and nicely finished in stainless steel, with a cup warmer on top. The portafilter is solid, heavy and the machine has no plastic in the brew path. I was able to get pretty good results right away using pre-ground Starbucks espresso coffee. Using my espresso-grade coffee grinder and fresh beans I was able to produce even better espresso after some experimentation and tweaking, exploring the art and science of the process. The steam wand froths milk for cappuccino and lattes, and also dispenses hot water to make Americano coffee from espresso. It's proven to be very fun! Since my Wirsh arrived I bought many accessories to go with it, as well as another machine to give as a housewarming gift. List price for the Wirsh espresso machine is $199.99, typical street price is $149.99 and now there is a discount code BREWDEAL on Amazon that saves $30, making it only $119.99. This is far less than I paid for my first unit, and would have made my initial purchasing decision much easier. On my soundadvicenews.com website I have more detailed information about the machine, with usage tips, links to other reviews and a detailing of the accessories I purchased so far. It may help you decide if it is for you, and help you design your own starter set. Just be warned that once you start experimenting, it can lead down a rabbit hole as you pursue that perfect espresso shot. But the beauty is you can just keep it simple, stick with pre-ground espresso coffee and enjoy.

Q. In recent columns you highly recommended the Onkyo and Integra changers. However, I have a space problem as both units are too high for my installation. Although no longer in production, Sony made at least two low-profile units that meet my needs, the latest being the CDP-445, available in "refurbished" condition. What are your thoughts about this option or any others you might recommend?

-R.S., Pittsburgh

A. The CDP-445 dates back to 1994, so you are looking at a machine that is around 30 years old. No manufacturer is refurbishing 30-year-old CD players, so it is a third party that is cleaning up these machines, testing them and selling them as refurbished. Used CDP-445 players sell for under $100 delivered on eBay and even less if you can find one on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. I would go that route before paying a premium for a "refurbished" CDP-445.

Denon, Yamaha and Harman/Kardon all made CD changers and DVD changers with dimensions similar to those of the Sony. I would put them on your shopping list as well, especially the Denon models. You can get a new Yamaha CD-C603 that is 1.5 centimeters shorter than the Onkyo. It may fit as well and is $599.95.

———

©2025 Tribune Content Agency, LLC