Thought it might worth opening a new thread as the old one was stopped in 2014. 

I'm looking to buy a espresso machine and grinder within a reasonable budget, say maybe 600. 

Did a bit of research, I found out that the Delonghi range in NZ is pretty low-end-ish. i.e., all are double wall baskets only, no PID control, etc. Sunbeam doesn't have a lot of choice either. 

So there are Brevilles, looks like they have some pretty good design. 

BES810, was $299 in Briscoe last week:
Single and double wall baskets. 
PID temp control
new 1700w thermalcoil heating  
Pre-infusion
Standard style steam wand 
(There is a combo with BCG400 often goes for 399. )

BES840, was $366 according to PriceSpy, though not very often at all:
All the BES810 function, 
Plus:
Pressure gauge
Automatic water dose control
If I choose BES840, I probably will add a BCG600 Pro grinder. 


BES870, often on sale for $599:
All the BES840 functions, 
Plus:
Built in grinder, probably BCG600 Pro class. 


Is Breville espresso machine reasonably good quality? It's a shame they offer only 1 year warranty while Delonghi does 2. I'm thinking I probably need extended warranty?

Any other recommendation? Thanks guys.