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ECM Synchronika
So, I figured now it has an official name this machine deserves its own thread... especially since there's now one on my bench thanks to Paul/******...
(click for full size)
Today is day 2, so obviously too early to put together a thorough review, but my thoughts so far... I'll update after I've had a bit more time to play (have only just finished dialling in the grinder so far).
My previous home setup was a Sunbeam 6910/450 combo, though I've had access to Makin HX/Compak K3 and GS3/Mazzer Luigi setups at various workplaces... to say the difference between the thermoblock machine and toy grinder and this setup is night and day would be an understatement!
Even this early, my best shots so far have been every bit as good as any of the 50 or so shots I pulled on the La Marzocco GS/3. The Fiorenzo F71k pairs nicely, and was dialled in within about five or so shots. The couple since have been lightyears better than anything I ever made with the Sunbeam combo, which is I suppose as you'd expect.
Academically speaking, the Synchronika is probably only a rational upgrade over the H/X Techni if you're planning on drinking lots of black coffee and like to tinker with brew temps; that's not really me at present but I figure it's better to spend extra now rather than upgrade again in two years. I suppose theoretically it should deal better with big runs of milk-based drinks too, but that won't often be a major concern for me. The biggest factor tipping me toward a DB over HX was consistent and controllable brew temp.
Very glad I went the ECM route as every detail is beautifully designed, engineered and constructed. Probably the only slight letdown is the toggle levers look and feel the tiniest bit cheap compared to the stainless PF and brew lever - but I'll be replacing those anyway
In summary - early days, no regrets, looking forward to the exponential expansion of my coffee universe.
--Matt
(click for full size)
Today is day 2, so obviously too early to put together a thorough review, but my thoughts so far... I'll update after I've had a bit more time to play (have only just finished dialling in the grinder so far).
My previous home setup was a Sunbeam 6910/450 combo, though I've had access to Makin HX/Compak K3 and GS3/Mazzer Luigi setups at various workplaces... to say the difference between the thermoblock machine and toy grinder and this setup is night and day would be an understatement!
Even this early, my best shots so far have been every bit as good as any of the 50 or so shots I pulled on the La Marzocco GS/3. The Fiorenzo F71k pairs nicely, and was dialled in within about five or so shots. The couple since have been lightyears better than anything I ever made with the Sunbeam combo, which is I suppose as you'd expect.
Academically speaking, the Synchronika is probably only a rational upgrade over the H/X Techni if you're planning on drinking lots of black coffee and like to tinker with brew temps; that's not really me at present but I figure it's better to spend extra now rather than upgrade again in two years. I suppose theoretically it should deal better with big runs of milk-based drinks too, but that won't often be a major concern for me. The biggest factor tipping me toward a DB over HX was consistent and controllable brew temp.
Very glad I went the ECM route as every detail is beautifully designed, engineered and constructed. Probably the only slight letdown is the toggle levers look and feel the tiniest bit cheap compared to the stainless PF and brew lever - but I'll be replacing those anyway
In summary - early days, no regrets, looking forward to the exponential expansion of my coffee universe.
--Matt
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