I have to say - knowing what I know now, I would go for the Rancillio. Just seems very well build with excellent temp control for a base unit. The Gaggia would be nice too, but I’d still encourage the Rancillio.
Where I’m coming from - I own the breville smart grinder, the gaggia classic, a vintage Expobar, an expobar Brewtus, a Mazzer Super Jolly (grinder) and many other various brewed and portable coffee tools and have owned much more than just listed. I also roast my own coffee and was a barista.
I have had the Breville Barista Express for over 2 years and make an average of 3 cups of coffee each day. It has worked flawlessly and is extremely consistent. Most importantly, it makes a great cup of coffee. Nothing I get at coffee shops or restaurants compares to the americanos I make on this machine.
I have heard that other machines have better frothers (the kind with the plastic attachments). However, I never have any trouble steaming milk and I've heard that frother attachments can be added.