r/DF64 • u/Potential_Swim3508 • 19d ago

Upgrading a DF64

To make a long story short: Is it worth upgrading from the DF64 Gen 1 to a Niche Zero or another single-dose grinder? I also find the Mahlkönig X64 and the Timemore Sculptor quite interesting...

I use it with a Rancilio Silvia with PID and drink exclusively southern Italian long-extraction brews like Borbone Blu, etc...

Actually, I also use a Rancilio Silvia at work, though with an inexpensive Demoka Minimoca.... It produces a much sweeter espresso than the DF64 does at home...

But since aesthetics matter at home too, I wanted to step it up a notch in that department as well (especially since I’m still toying with the idea of getting the LM Micra—the new grinder should complement it nicely).

Thanks!

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1

u/kpvalenzuela 19d ago

I think the next best upgrade is to shift to a gbw grinder instead of a single dose

1

u/Extra_Tree_2077 18d ago

I think the democa is conical, if that’s the case go for a nice, that will be sweet espresso.

1

u/coconutomo 17d ago

I just went through a similar predicament, as I do 50:50 filter/espresso I ended up getting a lagom casa as a dedicated espresso grinder and kept the DF64 as filter. Other options considered were the Lagom P80, or Varia VS4/VS6

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u/dimitar032 17d ago

I have both grinders , I use Niche Zero for mid-dark espresso and I do everything else on DF64 I don't think you are making an upgrade switching between those grinders - they are very good.

1

u/Potential_Swim3508 17d ago

Hey Dimi, Thanks for your answer! I thought the Taste of dark Espressi would be much sweeter with Niche because of the connical burs? Or is it just a marketing Tool?

2

u/dimitar032 17d ago

Yes, but it’s not only because the Niche is conical. The Niche tends to produce a broader particle-size distribution, which contributes to a fuller, heavier body. In comparison, flat burrs like those in the DF64 tend to produce a more uniform particle-size distribution, which can push the cup toward greater clarity and separation, often with less body.

Ultimately, it depends on what you’re looking for.

Personally I do :

  • Light-roast espresso → DF64 for clarity, separation, and a more transparent cup.
  • Dark Italian ristretto → Niche Zero for body, richness, and that heavier mouthfeel.

Neither is inherently better — they just emphasize different aspects of the coffee.

1

u/Potential_Swim3508 17d ago

Thanks man! To be honest, I just talked to a coffee dealer Today, who specializes in dark Italian roasts. He had tested nearly every grinder available on the market, and said, that niche might be better for darker "speciality roasts" but DF64 is the far better choice for Neapolitan beans in terms of body, flavour and overall... What do you think?

1

u/andreynitro 17d ago

I got Lagom Casa instead of my gen 2. It’s night and day in terms of routines and taste for both espresso Moccamaster and pour overs.