Hello. This is my first post!
I currently have a Gaggia Gran with a Krups burr grinder (gvx231 - pretty basic I think). I have been getting a bit disappointed with the results (especially lack of crema) although I have managed to change a couple of things and find improvement: I always use Hasbean or other very fresh beans; I make sure the machine is very hot by priming the boiler and running some water through the portafilter just before I use it; I make sure it's tamped properly. These last two do seem to make quite a big difference. Are there any other tips with this setup?
But I'm wondering about upgrading. If I upgrade to a Gaggia MDF grinder first, will I notice a big difference (especially with crema)? I was thinking after that of going to the Gaggia Classic. I'm just a home user and would normally just have two doubles per day, so not worth going for anything that is time consuming to use. And my budget is limited to that kind of range of equipment (might have to be second hand).
Thanks for your advice.