ECM SYNCHRONIKA - German Built By Italian Heritage
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 23 июл 2024
- The ECM Synchronika isn't a newcomer to the prosumer home espresso machine market, but its new to me. Finally I've been able to get one on the bar and put it through its paces and determine if this classic E61 with a modern twist lives up to its reputation and gives me the barista tingles.
↓CHAPTERS↓
[0:00] INTRO
[1:03] STANDART AD
[1:46] NOTABLE FEATURES
[3:22] PERFORMANCE & WORKFLOW
[4:48] THE QUIRKS & DOWNSIDES
[6:33] FINAL THOUGHTS
↓LEARN MORE↓
- ECM: www.ecm.de
- Whole Latte Love: www.wholelattelove.com
↓SUPPORT THE CHANNEL↓
- Standart Subscription: www.standartmag.com/sprometheus
- Patreon: / therealsprometheus
↓COFFEE ROASTED BY ME↓
- Little Giant Coffee: www.littlegiant.coffee
- Little Giant IG: / littlegiantcoffee
↓FOLLOW FOR MORE↓
- Instagram: / sprometheus
- Facebook: / therealsprometheus
- Twitter: / realsprometheus
- Reddit: / sprometheus
↓THE MUSIC↓
Oasis - Man With Roses
#ecmsynchronika #espresso #sprometheus
ECMs are built like tanks. That is a feature of its own worth apreciating. My ECM Mechanika 3 is 17 years old, still looks shiny and stunning and produces excellent results. I spent around 250 € in spare parts (gaskets, pump, isolation retrofit, new lamp, e61 spare part set, new safety valve, finder relais). Some of those parts weren't even broken but the pump and the relais got louder than they used to be due to age. The repairability and availability of spare parts is excellent in Europe.
I've had an ECM Synchronika for 3.5 years now. It has been a solid work horse. It turns on at 6:30am every day and doesn't get turned off until 2pm. It hasn't missed a beat. I haven't got the flow control add-on and just use it like a normal espresso machine. I think the flow control add-on does up the complexity quite a bit - but you'd only get that if you wanted it and wanted to learn how to use it. Personally I'm just happy to use it like a regular espresso machine and I'm happy with the consistent results I get. Personally I can't see myself wanting to upgrade to any other machine. Your review is fair and tells it how it is.
I've had this for almost 4 years and it's amazing!
Great review as always! I've owned a Profitec Pro 500 with PID for 3 years now and it's been fantastic. Zero issues and consistent shots. Taking a look at the internals of all the ECM/Profitec Espresso machines, they really are built beautifully and I would imagine if any issues arise in the future I would feel relatively confident working on this machine myself and not having to send it out for repairs.
Nice review, pretty spot on. I've had one for 18 months, 2-5 cups a day daily driver and love it. I measured the flow at every 1/4 turn of the flow control knob when I got it to avoid having to "feel it out" before a shot. Also I keep the hot water spout tucked away in a way that it's almost flush with the front of the machine and it no longer gets in the way of the lever, while still looking pretty natural. I personally love the aesthetics and feel of using levers and knobs. My only gripe is the shallow drip tray can need emptying before the weekly basic clean I give it. Oh and the hot chrome fascia can be a pain to keep super shiny clean, especially if you're dialling in using a naked portafilter. But hey, shiny chrome looks rad, so worth it.
Dude! Bummer you couldn’t take the time to put the mini and the ECM back to back. I think Mark wouldn’t mind this little contest too. Yes, both machines are in there very own corner yet they are so aspirational for many of us out there. For now I’m super happy to be in team ECM but we all know things come and go, don’t we 😎 Anyway thanks for putting great content out even in strange times! Keep it coming, Chief!
I bought my Synchronika about 3 months ago and I absolutely love it, I was upgrading from a Breville dual boiler which developed a hole in the steam boiler. The Breville is a fantastic starter machine - but the difference is night and day.
My dream machine was actually a VA Eagle One Prima and I was about to purchase it, but read seemingly never ending stories of reliability issues so this was struck off the list - in Australia, it retails for $7300AUD.
Next in line was the LM Lina Mini, which also retails for $7300AUD.. As great as a machine it is and I agree, it is one sexy machine, if not the sexiest in the category, I found the technology being offered at that price point, just a little basic - not bad, but not in $7K territory.
Then I came across the Synchronika - I initially didn't want an E61 mainly because of the manual nature. But the reviews of the machine could not be ignored, reliability, build quality and performance, all things that are important to me, it was praised for - and retails for $5200AUD and other than app control, is extremely comparable to the LMLM.
- Both have manual brew activation
- Both have rotary pumps
- Both are dual boiler
- Both have brutal steam power - although the LMLM has got a slight edge.
- Both have awesome temp stability
- Both are extremely well made
- Both are known to be very reliable
Advantages of the LMLM
- Programmable on/off
- Programmable pre-infusion
- Sexy AF
Advantages of the Synchronika
- Steam/Water Leavers (personal preference)
- Flow Control Option
- PID/Eco functions adjustable onboard
- Shot Timer
- Easy access tank-
- $2K AUD cheaper than the LMLM
I got my Synchronika for $4750AUD and have no regrets and have it paired with a Niche (which I was using with the Breville) - if the LMLM was in a similar ballpark, then I probably would have leaned that way - mainly for aesthetics, on/off and prestige ( I mean who doesn't want a LM?) but the lack of a shot timer would have driven me mad (yes I know you can use the app, but who wants to pull out their phone?). Considering the LMLM launched at around $4K AUD - it has risen $3k in price but with very minor upgrades - it is now basically the cost of a GS3 at the launch of the LM - which is now $11KAUD - for a machine that has made no quantum leap in the tech included - I love LM - but guys - come on!
Couldn’t agree more. LM have become the Rolex of coffee machines - well made yet over hyped and not exactly value for money anymore. I had an LMLM and was rather underwhelmed considering what it cost me here in Australia, especially considering that out of the box the flow rate was too high and needed to be tamed with a smaller diameter restrictor, which requires opening up the machine. I have since gone back to an e61 and love it. I think the only machine that could temp me to change at the moment would be the Synesso ES1 as it appears to offer an actual leap forward in espresso machines.
Do you guys have a view re E61 vs. saturated group heads?
Wow, awesome breakdown. I also upgraded from a Breville Dual Boiler to the Synchronika and was torn between the Mini and ECM. But seriously, there is no justification of spending that much more on the Linea other than love. I bought the 25 years edition with olive wood applications and everytime I look at the machine it´s just a feast for the eyes. Best decision ever, have fun with your machine my friend.
I have done the same and whilst I did really like my breville while I had it, when it died it became an unrepairable bit of landfill so I now give it scathing reviews whenever I see people praising them. If I lived in SA I could probably have dropped it at the appliance recycler at Bunnings but that isn't an option in backwards NSW. I did have to give away the breville grinder which didn't cut it with the Synchronika but after learning on the dual boiler the Synchronika didn't take long to get used to. It makes wonderful coffee and I'm hoping that it will last for years.
Great info thanks. Im looking to upgrade from a Rocket Giotto Evo to the Synchronika or other Dual Boiler.
Where did you get the ECM from in Australia?
We use one on the cafe I work at. Not this exact model, a simpler one. That tank has served more coffees than it's supposed to. It's on 8 hours a day everyday and hasn't failed once. E61 ECM for life baby!
Great because I just bought one
A true dream machine, for most espresso enthusiasts!
I went the route of the Classika precisely because of the reasons you pointed out. The OPV is less violent at 8 bar. You're either into these kind of machines or not. Not kid friendly though as you can scald yourself easily. Workflow is great and the layout becomes very natural after a month of use. Flow control knob is better on the flow sensor version, I'm only using 1/4 turn above closed to 1/2 above closed, the flow rate fixes all extraction issues with light roasts, I've not pulled a bad shot since leaving it that low.
You will get that stovepipe hat.
I have had mine for over two years. It's a beast, an so far no issues. I think your view pretty much sums it up. I think the good and the bad, are exactly like you say.
I have had the little brother of Synchroika, ECM Klassika. This is just one boiler but with all the other features of the Synchronika. The Klassika has been a part of my morning routine for about 5 years and love this machine. It operates today as the first day I received the machine. I can depend on my shots to be consistent each morning. Some of the down sides as mentioned in the video is the exhaust of the water from the brew bell, no big deal. The pros certainly outweigh the cons. The machine was purchased from Whole Latte Love and I was in love with my Rancillio Silva until the Klassika was introduced to me by one of their sales representatives. Thanks so much for the great recommendation. Great video. Thx
I have it’s relative profitec pro600 and do love it. The build and quality is excellent and from what I understand they’re built in the same factory? I love the e61 look and it def does get warm…even my cabinets get warmed up haha. I always enjoy your content!
Synchronica is the best on the market in that price range. It’s built like a tank and is one of the easier repairable machines on the market. It’s built to last. Im not sure about the critical opinion on this video but everyone else I have listened to love this machine. It doesn’t look too busy or too much going on to me. The controls look straight forward. Turn on switch and a lever to turn the pump on. 🤷♂️
So I know this was a year ago, and this reviewer does a great job but you hit the nail on the head so well. He is coming at this from a reviewer perspective not a long term owner of this machine perspective. This is one of THE BEST because you at home can service it when something inevitably goes wrong( as things under immense pressure and heat tend to)
That is why the E61 has been so long lasting.
I have this machine for the past three years, plumbed to water line with filter from Whole Latte Love. I love this machine - it produces amazing espresso and cappuccino every day. I have used it with Baratza W270i and Niche Zero grinders.
I have this model but I don’t have flow control or the wood accents. I use a Wi-Fi plug so it’s ready to go when I get up. I agree with the water back pressure when you close off the shot. Water can get under the tray a little. Other than that, I really like this machine even though it’s probably more than I need. But… I bought it for its known build-quality & shot making quality. Thanks for finally reviewing this. Also, WLL has great customer service & always tries to help.
I'm on my second ECM machine. The first, a Giotto, still works after 18 years and was easy to DIY-fix when parts went faulty. The second, a Technika, is a great upgrade with rotary pump, PID and flow control. I can make espresso that rivals cafes in Rome! And living in the sticks of Japan without a cafe within two-hours drive, my daily espresso needs are fulfilled. Thanks to the internet, fresh roasted coffee and parts (if needed) are easy to get. Thanks for the review, it's a great machine that makes wonderful espresso.
$13k au...should be good!
Hey Spro, I’ve had a Synchronika for almost 6 years, pull about 4-6 shots a day. The only reliability issue I’ve had was the steam pressure valve failed. Fortunately, the steam could be switched off so it didn’t matter too much. Otherwise the machine looks like new. The shallow drip tray does cause splash up onto the scale but it doesn’t bother me much, the reason for it to be that shallow seems to be for the plumbed in tray attachment. It doesn’t have flow control as that wasn’t an option back then, would be interested to experiment with it but also not sure I want my hobby to become full time. The steam and water outlets can be spun around out of the way still not hanging outside the machine. That said it is a bit cluttered front panel but it works well.
I’m considering an E61 for my next machine (maybe 2-3 years from now) solely because of the flow control capabilities. I hope more manufacturers add this to non E61 designs in the future and create more options. For now (and the past 6 years), my Breville Infuser is working just fine :)
A good straight to the point review without any fluffing around. Also there's something about the E61 Group that I don't like and is stopping me from purchasing the ECM Puristika. Thanks.
Always look forward to nerding out Friday evenings with another great video! Thank you for the content and honest evaluations! Loved the Gaggia VS Mini, the strange double boiler with a vibe pump… really vibe pump!?! Rancilio machine and grinder … last weeks also great .. (could new mini be my upgrade?!).
I’ve owned the Quick Mills’ HX Brazilian model -Andreja for 2.5 yrs (yes with a vibe pump) and have learned how she works, no PID, flow control or integrated shot timer but consistently great complex shots, love the retro look and yes the E-61 can burn you raw once in a while lol. - I also roast weekly (but not on a aillio bullet)
My video requests idea:
Please review Clive Coffee’s M58!! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this one!!
I’d love to see a video nerding out regarding different roast levels, temps, how to pull out flavors ect. and “final thoughts” regarding what a overall good temp is for different roast levels and why
Thx always!
Really like your content. Looking forward to see you grow and develop a more video forward tone from reading type tone.
I've had my Synchronika w/ flow control for 3 years and have not noticed the heat issues you measured. The core group unit itself gets painful to the touch, but I just did the same Thermapen measurements as in your video, and my portafilter handle and flow control knobs were both only 85 degrees. Someone below mentioned the possible explanation being wood v. plastic conductivity, and I have the plastic version, so that could be the difference.
In terms of reliability, so far (knock on wood) the only thing I've had to repair is the o-ring for my vacuum relief valve. The symptom is continued dripping out of the small round knob below the drain valve, which was pretty easy to do once I'd figured out the problem. There's a good video walkthrough from Whole Latte Love.
I have had one for a little over 3 years now. Had to have the rotary pump replaced earlier this year. Wasn't too bad at $360 installed. Overall happy with it and quality of shots. But would love to know your thoughts vs others including the gorgeous Linea by its side??? Better shots? Easier to use? Have the La Marzocco bug and wouldn't mind "upgrading" if it is. Thanks And as always, enjoy watching and learning.
I was lucky enough to get a 2nd hand ECM Syncronika. Previous owner had it 3 yrs and just cleaned it. Not even has a service and he said he nearly ever had a bad shot. 2 months on and I can get my espresso dialled in quickly.
Yes 15 mins may not seem quick but compared to my previous gaggia this is a lot faster and seems so much better quality (confirmation bias). Love it!
Ps just make a drink and realised your right about it being a bit cramped, my work flow is to first move out to the side both the wands!
Another great video. Thanks, Spro. I bought my Profitec Pro 600 from WLL and I’m very happy with the purchase. I really like the look and feel of E61 design. I especially like using the lever to engage the pump, maybe a similar feeling to the paddle on the LMLM. I have the flow control option and it definitely isn’t the most user friendly knob, and takes a fair bit of practice. I also wonder if saturated a group head offers better temperature stability. At the end of the day I love the machine and the build quality is hard to beat, in my opinion. And I almost forgot, I like how easy it is to change the brew pressure without having to opening up the machine. On the Profitec there’s a screw near the bottom front of the machine and you can change with a screw driver. Cheers.
Same with the Synchronika, OPV or Pump pressure can be adjusted from the bottom. It's a heavy machine though. I had a Quickmill machine that was easily adjustable from the front (non e61 though).
Hi Prometheus! Thank you for the review! I've owned and used an ECM Synchronika for the last three-and-a-half years. I don't have the flow control yet, but I'm considering, so your review is quite timely. This is my first E61 machines, so I know what you mean by it getting hot. At the beginning, I had one or two "ouches" -- nothing big, but still. Nevertheless, I'm so used to it, I only notice it when I touch the portafilter the first time in the morning. Again, not a big deal. So, I'm very happy with the E61.
ECM is well built, as you said, but after the years of use, has has a few issues. For one, I've had to replace the T-Connector that connects the vacuum breaker to the front discharge twice, which was not easy to do for someone like me, without the tools, space and expertise.
Other than that, I've been quite happy with it. Would I rather have a Marzocco Linea Mini? Probably. But it's almost twice as expensive. Not to mention I'd have to mod the thing to add a timer! So, happy with ECM for now.
Thank you for all your videos, Prometheus. They're clear and informative. Great job!
That's the one weakness supposedly for the Synchronika, the T connector is made of plastic that gets brittle from heat and falls apart. I had my machine for about 2 years, and decided to replace it with a brass valve, it wasn't too hard of a job but was a bit tricky to get all the 3 sides of it unconnected and then reconnected to the new part. My original plastic part looked and felt like it was still in good shape, but I heard a few stories of peoples failing after only about 1-2 years! Hopefully they've improved the part and I replaced mine unnecessarily.
I really enjoyed your impartial third party assessment of this machine. Watching whole Lotte love review this machine is nothing better than advertisement. I felt like we were getting an honest impartial review and information about this machine. I've been considering this in chronica but after watching your review, I feel like I was getting sucked into the e61 hype. I would enjoy seeing more of this type of videos where you look at different machines that are more consumer oriented but high-end.
Thanks Bill, and yeah I get you. I appreciate the folks at Whole Latte Love and other resellers but it’s all but impossible to be impartial if sales of it directly funds your content.
I've owned a Synchronika for over 2 years and have used it daily. It's a great machine if you're looking for an E61 design. But I agree with your critique of the shallow drip tray; more than a couple times I've spilled water carrying the drip tray to the sink to dump it 😬
I've never burned myself on any of the hot surfaces (just used to being cautious I guess). I have it hooked up to a smart plug so I have it scheduled to turn on half an hour before I wake up, so it's hot-and-ready to go.
It's performed consistently and I have no major complaints. However, just a couple weeks ago I noticed it leaking from the bottom and discovered that there's a plastic barbed tee fitting connecting the tubes from the boilers's OPVs to a little drain outlet that empties into the drip tray; it became brittle and broke, and it was a bit of a pain to remove it. Replaced it with a stainless steel junction for less than $4 and no more leaking!
Really liked the digestible format of the video. Rarely got time to set 30mins aside.
love the dramatic footage with the steam open! lol
Hi thanks for the review , I have this machine for nearly 2 years, I have installed a flow control last year, well I think you have provided a very fair review tbh if I have an option to pick up another machine with e61 group I would definitely go for ecm synkronika
I found the coffee sensor flow control to be easier to work with than the ecm one you have here. Youre exactly right about the workflow and it being somewhat cramped, but thats just e-61 life. I think you nailed it as being just that.
I had the Coffee sensor brand one on my previous Rocket machine and thought they were basically exactly the same when I got the ECM Synchronika with the ECM one installed. Sometimes it's rougher to rotate the control knob? Both of mine did that, but I recently re-lubed my squeaky E61 brew lever and since then mine has been feeling smoother, hopefully it stays that way.
I think you covered most of the points on this machine. One complaint I have on mine were the bad tolerances between the panels and between de body and the driptray. That thing can move up and down at least a centimeter or two and it can rattle side to side as well. Fortunately it was nothing a weekend afternoon of uncrewing the panels and adding some spacers of tape and felt couldn't fix.
I'm absolutely in love with this machine and can recommend it to anyone who wants good coffee. It might look a little complicated at first but it does the same three things every other machine does: Steam, Brewing and hot water ;-)
If you slam the lever closed, you are going to get splashed from the excess pressure discharging. The radical solution to this is to not slap the lever shut. Just close it normally, or let the pressure discharge at the half position and there is no splash.
Wah 😂
Thanks a lot for your great review! I am considering to buy it, but have one consern about the height with opened tank lift.
I am planning to set it up under the cabinet, so have limited space, what is the heght of Synchronika with opened tank lift?
Great video! This has been the machine at the top of my list. Which way to go? ECM or LMGS3MP?
Very well described! Would you say it produces quality shots the same as the LM ?
Love the Synchronika. Have it now for a year without any issues. I think the motor might be slightly noisier but hard to tell. Hope that is not an indication of future issues. I changed the steam tip to a four hole nozzle. Also increased the steam temperature to up the pressure. This is possible on newer Synchronikas. Doesn't mean I have become a latte art master. Still working on that skill.
I get the close proximity of everything. To me it adds to the character. I believe a steam wand should work with a lever rather than a knob. Very happy with it.
My only complaint. When running out of water the PID stops showing the shot time. There is plenty of water left. Let me finish the shot with the timer. Maybe blink the numbers to indicate the water needs replenishing. While continuing to show the time.
People always equate the second boiler with the steam wand. It also applies to the hot water spout.
One more comment. I am starting to love the look but a less boxy design would be interesting. It could be art deco without the square look.
I have the ECM Classika as I rarely use steam and it was a lot to learn on. If I ever upgrade to a rotary pump it will likely be the Synchronika due to my good experience with reliability, maintenance, and gorgeous aesthetics. I like the old school vibes.
Hola, buenas noches. Tengo una ECM v, muy parecida a la muestra. Es posible siempre dejarla siempre conectada?. La tengo con un tiempo de descanso a los 30 minutos.
Nailed it. At first it definitely feels claustrophobic but you get used to where the hot water spout and steam wand go when not in use, I tend to use the steam wand more off the side than in front of the machine, so that it goes back in place easy.
I like the machine a lot overall but definitely find the flow control tricky, and since I’m not plumbed in, testing the exact flow output of my device at flow control positions would be very difficult. I would’ve liked to hear a little more about your flow control method, I saw you brewed pretty near 6 bar? I know it’s going to vary based on your coffee and roast.
As a beginner I definitely agree it felt really busy at first and it took quite a few shots to really get a hang of it, but part of that is just being new to espresso, right? I personally enjoy a challenge and not as big of a fan with automated machines where the tinkering is not as available. The tinkering, is highly available in this machine :p
Had mine a year and I've never known the levers or handle get hot or even noticeably above room temperature, but I see at least one other comment with the same issue. Weird.
Aside from a slight wobble in the drip tray, everything is beautifully put together.
I think I'm comfortable enough with the flow control now that I don't think too hard about it. Preinfusion is always in the same place then I open it up until it hits 9 bar and rarely have to mess with it after that.
Really love this machine. It's beautiful, built like a tank, and I don't think I'll complain if I never buy another espresso machine in my life.
I think some people think a bit over 100f is hot.... it isn't for the rest of us..... just nice and warm to the touch.
The wood handles I think have a metal core and it transfers the heat more, the plastic ones don't transfer the heat as much I believe, I haven't noticed the handles getting hot, metal gets toasty on all E61s especially the group or mushroom part on top of the brew group.
Wood = Style over practicality? :O
What’s the natural progression from this? The LMLM or Eagle One? In Canada it’s a large price increase from the Synchronika to either of the two I mentioned. At least for the Eagle One. It’s $10k here compared to the ECM which you can get open box for ~$4k.
can you please let us know where did you purchase your ECM Synchronika machine since I chouldn't find the wooden finishing on the side same look as your video showed. Thank you so much!
I love my Synchronika with flow control! It’s a beautiful machine with an aesthetic that is extremely pleasing to the eyes! It’s a very sturdy & well made machine that makes great espresso consistently. I love the lever knobs as opposed to turning knobs for the steam and hot water. I love angled double spouted portafilter, it has great heft and looks good. There is another machine or two that are posed as being a better value by comparison but I think the Synchronika is worth a few hundred more over them all due to the aforementioned features as they elevate the machine to another level! To me it was worth it to pay for that. It just feels great to have and use everyday … I am truly grateful. Looks top notch on a counter top or bar too. Definitely gives off a cafe vibe but your home making and drinking great espresso :). P.S. mine heats up to temp within minutes.
With the feature of the flow control, can you get the same quality as the Linea mini, please advise me because I am about to buy one of these (ECM flow control or linea mini)
Great video Sprometheus ( is that your real name ).. Its good to know the little quirks all be it minimal about the machine. At this price point which I'm looking to upgrade from my Breville dual boiler its a hard choice in choosing a machine. Bezzera, Ecm. Profitec, Lelit etc. Cosmetically all sexy machines and function similarly the thing I worry about most is longevity, and that's hard to pin point. As always mate a great video and look forward to more machine reviews ☺.. If you could line up all the machines I mentioned and do a real world show down. That would be awesome ;~)
As usual very Interesting video ecm dual boiler at a good cost with great options looks good flow control pid control
I'm starting to mess with my mind 😂
Thank you 🙏🏼
Haha glad you enjoyed it and don’t let it mess with your mind too much!
It's quite the altar upon which to perform the espresso rituals.
Bianca flow control seems a bit more ergonomic. Bianca's drip tray is deeper - no splashing. Bianca's moveable water tank is a really smart design that must be used to be appreciated. Bianca over-heats is brew boiler for faster warm-up times. I could be wrong but I do not believe the synchronica does. I grant you, I never gave much thought to the busy-ness of the E61 controls/design and I can see where LMLM is a bit less cluttered in that regard. I have always had an E61, so I suppose I am just used to it.
ECM/Profitec has recently updated 'fast heat up' to their machines. It will overheat and advice you to do a flush in the display.
If you manage to follow that instruction, ECM/Profitec claims 12 minutes of heat-up time.
The Real Sprometheus' '7-10 minutes' are nothing but fictitious
I love it when you said you dont know the long term durability, most reviewers wet their pants talking about all of the positives and the negatives which are all subjective but they never ever mention in their channels about the long term reliability. To me, all those reviewers are getting kick back but not you and 'project farm,' both of you guys give a objective view with no biases, thank you!
Hmm, positives and negatives are all subjective? Really?
How would you rate the ECM Synchonika against the Quickmill Vetrano 2B Evo, Lelit Bianca and La Marzocca LM? Looking to upgrade from my Rocket Cellini.
I have a niche grinder and a Lelit Bianca, which seems very similar to the ECM Synchronika in this video. The Bianca flow control can't be rotated more than about 270 degrees, but that's almost always enough for my purposes. I really like the flow control, since I roast my own beans that I'm always experimenting with, and so I'm usually dialing in the grind setting. Unlike Sprometheus, who probably doesn't need to dial-in his grinds as much due to likely roast consistency [i'm guessing here], I really like the flow control to keep the pressure on the E61 group head near where I want. I would recommend the Bianca and the Synchronika for most new high-end home espresso customers.
Here both at same price. Which would u recommend? Both have FCD
@@hussainmahmoud7881 I haven't used the ECM Sync, so I can't compare them, but I do like the Letit Bianca. I can't think of what would be better about it, frankly.
I do like the Bianca's movable external water tank. It's also plumbable.
@@hussainmahmoud7881 I have owned both and kept the Synchronika.
The build quality is much higher on the Sync. For eg., the metal used on Sync is 3x thicker than on the Bianca. The metal colour is a nicer grade, and it is not wavy like on the Bianca. The Bianca is built the same as their cheapest machines, but with wood touches that surprisingly looked plastic-like since there was no wood grain and the wood also came with dents and splits.
And the Sync also has levers for steam. A larger steam boiler. Etc…
For the same price, it’s a no-brainer. Get the Synchronika.
Shot heat up time is about double the one you mentioned. Don’t forget the e61 group head needs to get on the right and stable temp too for a properly temped shot, not just a brew boiler. There are couple of tricks to speed these up a little but are minuscule in comparison. You’re looking at about 25-30 min shot-heat up time even on a dual-boiler e61 machine. Cheers.
Yes
Hi, try to find an Orchestrale Nota espresso machine. Absolutely amazing build quality and extractions are truly beautiful. The steaming is the best I have ever experienced and I have used them all including Dalla Corte, LM, Faema, Victoria Arduino. I found one new in the box and there is another for sale in NJ. They are discontinued in the United States at this time but may come back according to Orchestrale!! GORGEOUS AND EXTEMELY WELL BUILT.
I have had my Synchronica for about a month now. The first shot and every shot since have been perfect. I found the issues that you found negative to be quite trite and of no consequence. This thing is a thing of beauty and the fact that electronically it is perfection explains why all my shots too have been
This is the machine that I'm planning to buy. Or maybe a Profitec Pro 700 instead...
I'm just wondering how long can these kind of machine last under a good care?
I mean... Is it going to start getting some issue after a few years etc.
Hi Spro, any chance of an in depth review on the ECM Puristika? Comments on the E61 group heat up time ready for espresso (not quick) and the lack of a hot water tap for long black/Americano. Overall is this one of the best espresso purist machines available? Good it has a stainless boiler. Cheers Steph.
Love the Video, thanks to you and WLL. I am torn between the ECMS fully decked out in wood trim and Flow control and a Linea Mini. Can you speak to the build quality between the two? While the Linea is more for less features, I do love its look a lot more. I cant see myself getting big into complex flow control espressos and dont want to plum any machine. Excluding flow control, do you think they make comparable cappuccino? Which has a better work flow for you? Which would be easier to own over 5-10 years do you think?
Thanks!!
At this level it is about the ergonomics you prefer. The machines will all produce the stated pressure through the group at the stated temp every time in domestic use. Coffee will be identical. Profiling/flow control will make a difference to taste, but that is your control input, not the result of a difference in the machine. Both are very well made machines. In my country LM has the edge on servicing, as they have service agents in every city to service their commercial clients. Both machines vent steam properly so won't suffer from internal corrosion/electrical issues as much as cheaper machines. I went for a stock Synchronika without flow control, as I just wanted a solid machine that I didn't have to tweak to get consistency, and I sadly don't have LM money.
I live in the country.... so reliability and self repair of any issues once the machine is 5 to 10 years old is important to me. I ended up going with the Sync....oh... money wasn't a consideration.
Good review this machine is in my crosshair for when i am looking to upgrade my Appartamento. I agree that the review and concerns you have are definitely more E61 related. I experience the same with the Rocket.
I really dont understand why they cant design the hot water spout and lever some other way so that they are not so jammed up 🤷♂️. But you get used to it. Considering it's half the price or less than the Linea mini (the real dream), it sounds like a good option. Thanks for that
Absolutely! I mean it makes great espresso and considering the options and price, it’s definitely a great option.
I’m also eying the ECM as a potential eventual upgrade from an Appartamento. I agree that the complaints in this video can largely be generalized to E61 machines. But I personally think they are minor, and I absolutely love the way they look.
@@Sprometheus unless we just wait for the Linea Mini give away?? 😉 soon? 😆
It's because Linea Mini and a lot of other things espresso have become rich man's toys. ECM Synchronika is no way a bargain. You pay mostly for feel and finish. If you like it, buy it. Just don't rationalize
I share the thoughts about feeling like the machine ltd on a ship in front of my synchronika but I like it this way… on the ling term it needs the occasional e61 love and maintenance but rewards me with great shots every time as a dark italian styled espresso lover! PS choose a good grinder for this model (and all other serious espresso machines) thanks for the review!!! Greez from Vienna!
I've recently had a small problem with my ECM Synchronika. As soon as I switch the lever, the rotary pump starts to run. However, no pressure builds up. Nothing happens on the pressure gauge. Only after about 5-6 seconds does the pressure finally build up. Does anyone know what the problem is and can help? The machine was operated on mains water for a long time, now runs on tank. Thanks very much
Have you noticed any issues with tempature stability with the Syncronica? Most coffee professionals argue that E61s don't have good temp stability in comparison with at the group saturation machines. Always found it bs as I have no issues with my HX machine we're my friend has one at the group and he has huge differences shot to shot
This is a pretty fair review. I don't mind the steam wand, but the hot water wand does find its way into awkward positions that interfere with the brew lever. Personally, I push is to the right all the way, then pull the tip in so that it's just over the drip tray. I'd also agree the flow control can be quirky. When the control is fully open, the first 3/4 turn seems to do very little to head pressure. Recently saw the Lucca flow control at Clive Coffee and think I may get one to try. Aside from those two items, I'd say it's a great high end machine and does what I want it to do without fail.
Let us know how the Clive Coffee Lucca flow control worked out. I order a Synchronika with the Lucca flow control and expect it beginning of June.
@@BillColeExperience It has been bullet proof. I have it on a smart timer so that it turns on at 0600 and is hot when I’m ready to use it. I find myself using flow control less and less. When I do, I either close it completely after the puck is saturated and do a long pre-infusion, or a slowly close it as the shot is extracting to try to simulate a lever machine profile. Couldn’t be happier.
I've made 4 to 6 coffees a day for 25 plus years on a Pavoni Prof lever..... I recently got a ECM sync..... almost laughed out loud with regard to burning oneself and being cramped with a Sync (it's all relative I guess) ...... anyway.... with the Sync I still feel the "great coffee partership" that the Pavoni demands when I use the Sync (ie operator+machine+beans= result).
I have the Synchronika. I do use the flow control a lot. I really only use the first 180° which ranges from 1.5 to 6 mL/s. At 2 full turns it's 22 mL/s which is way too much.
Yeah I get that. I think measuring the flow and learning how to master it is something that would take a good amount of time, but once you get it down it could likely be plenty repeatable.
@@Sprometheus It's easy to measure with the SEP app and an Acaia scale.
The thing I didn't expect was sometimes the flow control does nothing. The flow will be limited by the puck and the OPV, not the flow valve.
i also own a syncronica for a few years now..
no complains.. and its literarily build like a tank.. expect to have it many years 🙂
As much as everyone on Home Barista likes to trash on E61, I love the old school design of them. I have a Lelit MaraX and really enjoy it in practice. It certainly needs a bit of warmup time, but that's fine (and a smart plug helps) and the surface heat produced isn't a big deal but I can understand it could be in a tight kitchen, especially with kids around. Biggest downside to the single boiler is brew temp but running the MaraX in X mode helps mitigate that at the slight detriment of steam pressure.
I avoid Home Barista like the plague. But that said, I definitely am not a fan of the E61 but it’s functionally sound. But I for sure thinks it’s not for everyone, myself included. I’ve heard good things about the Mara, another one I’d like to get my hands on.
@@Sprometheus I mean Home Barista is just a constant battle between Bianca-stans and Decent-stans; there's evidently nothing better (unless you're that weird lever fan :). I'm just in the market in the next year or so to upgrade the old Eureka Manuale and leaning towards a P64 but we'll see. Might just roll with a Niche.
@@Sprometheus 😂. As someone with a de1 and bianca sitting on my bar, I need to take note and keep away from HB a little. What’s your take on levers @spro?
Owner here, e61 is OG i dont understand why ppl like the mini, it looks like a small fridge to me but to each their own, its been reliable in the 3 years ive had it and thats why i bought it.
I have had my 110V Synchronika for about four years, use it daily, and have had no trouble with it at all. I added flow control after the initial purchase, as it was unavailable when it was new. Retrofitting it was not particularly difficult. If I had any feedback for the design team, it’s that I routinely start my day with a latte, followed by non-milk drinks the rest of the day, and just find it generally a nuisance to have to keep taking out the drip tray to turn the steam boiler on and off. Would one additional switch on the front panel ruin the design? I don’t think so.
Had a Synchronika for 3 years and it has not caused me any issues. Was advised to removed the 'cool touch' plastic tubing (which I did) from the steam wand so as not impede the pressure in any way. I use the 5 hole steam tip all the time, even for steaming in a 250ml jug.... which is super fast. Forget the hefty extra expense of the pre-infusion assembly - just not necessary in my opinion. Wish I'd had it plumbed in as the water tank empties really quickly particularly if you are also using the service boiler to make tea - the drip tray fills up equally as fast. As an improvement I'd love to see a small window on the front of the unit that shows the current water level of the tank. Also having to wait for the service boiler to start heating AFTER the brew boiler has reached temp is a small negative (it just slows down the whole machine ready time).
I use a Synchronica and and very happy with it over the last 4-5 years. But a few other related questions…
Looking at your shot I wonder what kind of beans you use as every single origin I every had never creates that darker color and crema.
And I don’t see a puck screen anymore. Or was that not your thing?
Hi Sprometheus, great video! I was curious if you could tell me a little about the thermal stability of the E61 group on the Synchronika. I'm looking to upgrade to an E61 machine with PID. Did you have any issues with temperature affecting your extraction, or do you have any data on the consistency of temperature when using the Synchronika? I'd welcome comments from any other E61 owners, as well :) Thanks!
It has great thermal consistency. Give the machine 15 minutes and it is really good. Give it 30 minutes and it is great. Love this machine. I would buy it again. I'm pretty picky.
I got myself one of the black 25th anniversary models a few weeks ago.... with a reasonable discount (10%)..... really looks nice.... so far less of an issue to keep clean.... worth considering.... I did work out that I have spent 18 days (24x7) steaming milk on my Pavoni lever over the last 25 years that I would not have with the sync (takes 20 sec per 100ml where tne pavoni takes about a minute.... so 40,000 x 40 seconds......).
Not a machine I’ll be upgrading to.
Nice review, thank you. 🙏🏻
The Synch is great, not sure about it being a great value though. Here in Canada there are similar dual boiler machines (I haven't tried personally) but have similar specs for less $$. Or much smaller boiler dual boilers I think might be an even better value for home use.
Temps seem very stable with back to back shots for me, which I think is the main reason to go for a larger dual boiler machine like this, especially if coming from a HX machine, not for steaming and brewing at same time. But dual boiler gives you more control and stability. I've always had machines that you can steam and brew at the same time yet I've only used that ability maybe once or twice in 15+ years :P I think most people (especially with a manual flow control machine) you want to focus on the shot and then focus on steaming milk after. If it had automated volumetric dosing like a La Spaziale, (Breville?) or Decent machine where it stops at a desired weight it would be more useful to be able to steam and brew at same time.
If you're worried about burning yourself don't ever try a La Pavoni Europiccola or similar small lever machine which is basically a bare exposed boiler and a lever / brew chamber. The flow control knob is pretty small and does have metal that gets pretty toasty up there on the Synchronika though so just gotta be aware of that. But it's not nearly as toasty as touching the outside of the boiler on a Europiccola. They both make great coffee though!
3 year daily user of the machine. Over all I am very happy with the machine. The limits of the machine are way beyond my needs or ability. My machine is plumbed with a BWT filter. This makes the higher cost a bit more justified. I would recommend the machine to any serious espresso maker.
I'm curious how the Lelit Bianca V3 compares, strongly considering it once some reviews hit.
I’ll be trying to get ahold of Lelit for sure.
I’d be interested in hearing what you would recommend for a home setup, I currently have a gaggia, but I’m looking to upgrade. If the E61’s have flaws, what else is left apart from expensive saturated machines?
I mean I would go so far as to say they aren’t necessarily flaws, but just design and functional things that I personally don’t like. It still functions perfectly fine. But in my mind the Gaggia has a lot of options and relatively inexpensive upgrades to get it pulling like a champ. So I would recommend putting more money into a high-end grinder.
Josh, hi. I only fell down this rabbit whole about 15 months ago. As mentioned above I chose not to go the E61 route and settled on a LeLit Elizabeth. Very happy so far with the pre-infusion even though no flow control. Best wishes for your search
@@alanroderick7153 thanks very much, it’s certainly a great machine for the price!
I’ve been down the rabbit hole…Gaggia, Barista express, BDB, now Decent. I think 100% my recommendation would be either the the Breville Dual Boiler or the Lelit Bianca, depending on budget and preference for E61/Saturated group. The BDB is more affordable and probably better temp stability, but you had to mod to have flow control, and overall user experience with Bianca might be better if you like E61’s.
@@ThunderRunner I am looking to upgrade to a DE1 from a BDB - what was your thinking to go there rather than an e61?
It’s finally here! Whoop whoop!
It has arrived! Enjoy!
Personally, I think this machine is top notch when it comes to E61 group heads. Still there is something that deter me from buying it‘s cheaper brother the pro 700 with flow control (personally, I just like the look of the profitec more, no fan of wood applications): The thermosiphon stall of the E61 grouphead. Having a PID and boiler dedicated only for brewing is great, but with my Rocket Apparamento I notice that there are two types of stalls that happen regularly. One causes the group to overheat (97 degree celsius) and one causes it to drastically underheat (70 degree celsius). Without the possibility of a having a grouphead thermometer (because there’s already the manometer in this place) you never know for sure where you are… besides this, I think the criticism raised here is valid, but you do get used to the confined workspace quite quickly.
Hace como 5 años que tengo una Sinchronica y la única pega que le encuentro es que la pslanca de accionamiento ha de engrasar se con una cierta regularidad casi mensual o de lo contrario empieza a tener un tacto muy rígido. Por lo demás funciona a la perfección produciendo tiros muy sabrosos
I own Synchronika for 2 months now. I would agree with your review. When you look at the "downsides" of the machine and that is all you have, you understand how good and reliable this machine is. I would like to add something and also have a question. First, the question is, how do you test the shots pulled after 7-10 minutes after the machine comes to the brew temperature? How does that go against the general recommendation for at least 30-45 min heating time for E61? I think we need to make clear two things: 1. The build of this is above average, actually, it is one of the best machines in that regard, and I tried some. It is built like a tank, with attention to detail. 2. Put this boiler to 2 bar and add ECM 4 or 5 hole steam tip and you have something on par with GS3. Mine came with the full set of tips 2-5 holes, I am at 4 at the moment and could not be more satisfied! Great review, glad you got the chance to do it.
I think 30-45 mins might be excessive, mine seems to heat up quicker but I don't usually pay attention to the time it's warming up, it's usually ready before me. I like the stock 2 hole tip, works for smaller milk drinks well. The previous HX machine I had, was a Rocket with 2 larger holes in the tip and it was way too fast and gave me worse results.
The Real Sprometheus' '7-10 minutes' are nothing but fictitious. For this version he had on the table it was 35 minutes (and some flushing).
That being said, ECM/Profitec has recently added 'fast heat up' to their machines. It will overheat and advice you to do a flush in the display.
If you manage to follow that instruction, ECM/Profitec claims 12 minutes of heat-up time.
'Fast heat up' PID can be retrofitted. Ask your dealer
Had mine aobut 3 years. Plumbed, I've never had a problem with the drip tank or with preinfusion. It's been fantastic for me, but prior I had a Rancillio Silvia so it's a huge upgrade in that regard. Just wonder if it's time to replace the Niche I got at the same time with flat burrs....
Glad to hear they hang in there for the long haul, and definitely an upgrade from the Silvia. Grinders are a huge market, I definitely think having a conical and a flat is the ideal way forward, but obviously not at all a realistic thing for everyone.
Depending on your tastes and coffee preferences you might still prefer the niche to a flat burr, but I think a great high clarity option if you want something completely different to compliment your Niche would be the Lagom p64 with SSP unimodal burrs. For a lower budget the DF64 with stock or SSP burrs will get you about the same results with a bit more fussiness.
@@BensCoffeeRants Or add something like a Comandante hand grinder as an occational, complimentary tool. Buy whatever you believe will make you temporarily) lucky. But don't believe anybody telling you a $$$$ grinder is necessary for what you will have in the cup.
@@user-ns4em5sk9b I've recently discovered at least for pour-overs / coarser grinding you can get great results with even just a low end hand grinder.
Had a Syncronika for a few weeks. Great machine, but not for me. The workflow issues you described are on point. The flow control ergonomics make it nigh-useless, which was a shame. Loved the form factor of the E61, but not the way it wasted heat. Going from a Europiccola to the Syncronika was a shock, to be sure. Sent the ECM back to WLL for refund (minus restocking fees), which I put to my Cremina. Thankful to the ECM for helping me learn what I *really* wanted in a home espresso machine!
I had the Synchronika first, then got a Pavoni Europiccola, I hated the workflow on the Pavoni at first, (got a naked portafilter where the basket doesn't fly out and that helped a lot) steaming is still a lot more awkward on the Pavoni though. I like them both.
Great drink quality out of both. Was the Cremina a noticeable upgrade (taste wise) to the Pavoni?
advice on ECM Sync vs LM Micra?
I have had my Synchronica for a little over a year now, and I just love it. I see you have a Lagome P64 grinder in the background. That is the same grinder I use and the combination of the 2 make for excellent espresso. Yes the steam wand and hot water wand leavers do get warm, but not hot. That is the nature of solid stainless steel and brass construction.
My steam and hot water wands are never in my way. After making several espresso drinks, one quickly learns where to position them so they are not in the way.
As far as the flow control valve goes, it has a working range of one and a quarter turns. If you are turning it more than that, you haven't taken the time to learn how to operate it.
You mentioned that the drip tray is a little on the shallow side. You you did not mention however, that the machine can be plumbed in so you never have to fill the water tank or empty the drip tray.
I Had a Quickmill Silvano that had a HUGE drip tray, then went to a Rocket Giotto HX which looked like it had a huge drip tray but was also pretty shallow and seemed like a poor design choice becuase it could have been a lot deeper. The Synchronika I believe has a larger drip tray than the Rocket did (and no need for cooling flushes with it, so less water wasted), it appears small because it's shallow but it's pretty wide so the capacity is not so small, but you don't want it to overfill because emptying it could be tricky :D
I’m using the ECM Mechanika Heeritage such a good & beautiful vintage looking machine. It’s not a double boiler. It’s a heat exchanger, compact and does great shot of espresso and milk drink, and it is in my thought nsh ALLAH, to upgrade to synchronika
Where did you acquire this version, ie wood? Thanks
These are the custom panels that they produce and sell at Whole Latte Love.
@@Sprometheus thank you - looks great… I can’t seem to find the flow control knob on there?!
Nice review Spro.
I am budgeting about $6k for an espresso machine. I just can't make up my mind on which machine to buy. Decent, Mini Linea, Victoria Eagle One Prime, or an E61 machine like ECM or Bianca. I intend to pair it with my Niche and then eventually Lagon P64 whenever I get a hold of one. In your experience is all the profiling on Decent needed in your everyday driver? And if not going from E61 group to a LMLM worth it for the extra $2k.
That’s a solid budget and there’s a lot of options in it. I mean I can only speak from personal perspective but the Decent isn’t one I would want to brew my morning coffee on everyday. It just doesn’t feel substantial, which is something I value. It sounds like you’re really looking to nerd out though, so maybe a Decent will fit that role for you. For me I think I would be plenty happy with something like this or any machine with flow control that gives me a bit more of the heavy commercial feel I want. The mini doesn’t have those options, so personally if you’re wanting control I’d move away from it.
@@Sprometheus The cons I have with the Decent are 1) I don't love build and vibration pump 2) I don't exactly need the information dump even though it sounds interesting. What I do want is repeatability and stable temperatures at the group. Since I do tend to drink light roasts flow control is something I want.
@@Dan_Mirai If you like a more hands on experience I'd say look into a high end Lever machine, ECM Synchronika with flow control is good, but flow control has no real feedback. If you want something super consistent / repeatable, the Decent is probably your best bet, but it's very digital. ECM Synchronika is like an old school V8 Muscle Car, where Decent is like a Tesla.
@@BensCoffeeRants If I was to get a lever machine I would love to get an Olympia Cremia. Right now I am just looking for a reliable machine that I can relearn how to pull consistent shots. It has been a minute since the last time I was behind a Linea.
I wonder if Spro here would be willing to try the Slayer mod on his LMLM.
The heat up time is a lot longer than what you stated for any e61 to have stable brew temps. The group needs to heat fully, at least a half hour.
If you leave the steam and hot water wands to the side they dont get in the way at all. You also forgot to mention that you can turn the steam boiler off, which you can't on the LM without severely affecting brew temp due to it requiring the steam boiler to preheat the water before it enters the brew boiler, which is required because the brew boiler is very tiny (0.17l).
the steam boiler feeding the brew feature sounds like a pretty smart solution to temp dropping throughout the shot. when its pulling cold water from the tank into the perfectly heating water in the brew boiler theres going to be drop off.
Yes, total nonsense, what was said in the video
@@AC-wl7ve No. Not smart. Done 20 years ago e. g. by Expobar Brewtus. Leads to overheating. And then: Don't think a stable intrashot temperature is superior to a declining curve. Just with the next shot you want to start at the same point again
It is a pity you haven't explored the thermal stability. Depending on the implementation DB could be much more stable than HX, but there are cases where it is not.
All thumbs up. This was not a review. Just a bit of chatter with some partially incorrect and misleading statements.
Somehow YT didn't recommend it to me. I like ECM. There is fancier stuff but I think they deliver high quality for a reasonable price. I'm just a broke student so it'll be a Classika a few years down the line. Maybe a Sync some day.
I've had my synkronika for 3 yrs.
Got mine plumbed in and a bwm bestmax premium filter.
Got trip tray plumbed as well.
Flow control works perfect for me, I unscrewed the flow control knob and slid clear drain hose over shaft and screwed the knob back on because it was so hot. This fixed the problem.
Turn flow valve a 1/2 turn to build pressure slow, the open another 1/2 turn.
I use 12 oz hot beverage cups to go and there is lots of space to fit high cups.
I was torn between this and a Linea mini, but went for the flow control and reliability of the synkronika.
Also you can see what your doing with the e61, it's not hid under a dashboard of gauges. I paired it with a ecm v titan which I made single dose and I can make a pretty good shot.
The three hole steam tip is better than the two hole
I have been using it with flow control and tank water for a year now, would you say the pre-infusion plumbing in gives worth it ?
Been thinking of getting BWT bestmax with flojet
@@yousefr433 yes 100% worth it.
I had a bestmax filter even moving to a bestmax pro made a difference.
i have an ecl classika and the build quality is absolutely insane, i cant see a scenario where this machine doesnt last my whole life. the steam can be a bit annoying it being a big single boiler, but it is what it is. to me its not worth the extra money for this machine just for a better steaming experience (rarely steam milk anyways, usually iced coffes or americanos) and i prefer the smaller footprint as well.
One thing u have to know about ECM which is the machine manufacturer by Profitec company in Italy.
Do you think the Synchroniza (or the E61 group head) is less prone to channeling than other machines, like Linea or Decent? Every single zoom in on synchronika's naked portafiler had an amazing extraction. I have an ECM with E61 too and, from my very limit experience with other machines, it seems to channel less. For instance, I tested the Decent in one ocasion and despite trying different profiles, apparentely I could se more channeling than ECM.
Having a machine that brews at proper 9 bars or less pressure (not 12 or 15) is going to give you better odds. But it's mostly about puck prep, your coffee type (and/or your grinder) and also the basket I found has a big impact. I definitely get channeling with the Synchronika, with a gentle ramp up in pressure and all different pre infusion settings I'd think the Decent machines would do better.
Light roasts with finer grind size is more likely to channel, also I think Decent or VST (and likely other precision) baskets seem more picky and will channel more, (possibly because they usually require a finer grind size), I tend to get the best results with my good old stock basket.
@@BensCoffeeRants When I tested the Decent, I even used my same ECM Classika portafilter. It didn't matter the profile much, with or without preinfusion, I could see a bit more channeling than I'm used in the Classika. Despite using the same grinder, PF and trying first using the E61 profile, Decent also required a finer grind setting. However, I used only the Decent for a couple of hours.
@@felipejacknogueira so same basket then? It was probably due to having to grind finer. Which grinder did you use?
@@BensCoffeeRants yes, everthing was the same as possible: same basket, same PF, I used my own puck-prep that I used in the Classika, same tamper. The grinder was the Vario. I know it's not considered to be one of the top grinders, but I used in the Classika without channeling issues.
I already upgraded to a DF64 with SSP HU burrs, but in reality I'm not sure if like SSP or the Itamil (the DF64 original burrs set) more LOL. Hopefully one day will try the DF64 with the Decent.
@@felipejacknogueira Do you think E61 other than Ecm shows similar results?
Then, in terms of taste in light roasting, which do you think is better, the E61 machine with pressure profiling(bianca, crem-one…) or the Decent?
Of course, the grinder is assumed to be high-end.
Tactile feedback? Would be nice but cannot mark it as a disadvantage because its been designed like this and no other flow control has it. I would say that you could mark it as a wish-list item.
Regarding claustrophobic layout - yes. The Rocket r58 has the wands come out the sides of the barrel (9 o'clock for steam and 3 o'clock for water) and is not in the way.
Love this machine. U like it better than the Linea Mini because it has all the functionality, better price, great engineering, fixable, and looks better by far (my strong opinion)
Went from a Jura Z6 full auto to a LM GS3 MP after researching and deciding over the ECM Synchronika (was my initial first choice) with Flow Control. No regrets about my GS3 as I am sure if I had gotten the Synchronika first, I would have the upgraditis within months for the LM.