Comparing Precision Shower Screens for Espresso Machines
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 16 มิ.ย. 2022
- Are shower screen upgrades worth it? What's the difference between the various shower screen options available? In this video, we'll put 4 popular shower screens to the test to compare their construction, water dispersion, and brewing performance.
Products featured:
Profitec Shower Screen: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
BIT E61 Shower Screen: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
IMS Nanotech E61 Shower Screen: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
DVG Matrix E61 Shower Screen: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
Profitec Pro 700 Dual Boiler Espresso Machine: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
Eureka Oro Mignon Single Dose Grinder - Black: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
Whole Latte Love Crema Wave Whole Bean Espresso: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
Talk to our experts via chat or email: www.wholelattelove.com/contac...
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#espresso #coffee #barista - แนวปฏิบัติและการใช้ชีวิต
An IMS shower screen and VST basket turned my Lelit Glenda from a machine that made good espresso, into one that made amazing espresso, and reduced the maintenance too... Definitely worth a buy.
That's great to hear. It's amazing what a couple smaller upgrades can do to improve everyday quality in cup.
AJ
Exactly what i have done each little step at a time and you can notice the difference in taste to my ECM Mechanika IV
Yep, I have the same espresso machine Lelit Glenda PL41PLUST. I installed IMS shower screen and IMS basket and it resulted in a great improvement. 👌 The difference is huge, despite the fact the espresso was quite good before that as well. 🎉
Thank you for a great video!
I have Lelit Glenda PL41PLUST espresso machine and lately I have installed the IMS shower screen and IMS basket and it resulted in great improvement. The difference is surprisingly huge, despite the fact the espresso was good before that as well. I’m glad I have made these changes and it’s also good to hear your confirmation that I made a good choice. 👍
You are welcome!
same here, Sanremo Capri, upgraded the shower screen IMS 200 and basket and the difference in extraction and coffee profile was astonishing.
Well done. Perfect side by side. Keep up the good work. Thank you!
Thanks for the kind words! Glad you enjoyed it
AJ
Great video AJ. All variables addressed and covered. I’m really happy with my IMS Barista Pro screen and baskets.
Thanks, Spencer. That's a great combination!
AJ
Thats waht I was looking for! Right on point! Chapeau & Thanx!
Glad I could help!
Great, thx for the comparison video. I will definitely stick to my IMS screen. Great shots and easy cleaning.
Hey P, You're welcome - they really do make a difference!
Marc
Very good video. Thank you for taking that time.
Hi JtK, You are welcome and thanks for the comment!
Great video 👌 Luv the soothing extraction view ❤
Glad you enjoyed
Great video! on the GCP would you advise upgrading the shower screen and/or using a puck screen as well please?
I can't tell you how beautifully shot this video is. Amazing work
Thank you very much!
AJ
Very informative, thank you!
You're welcome, thanks for watching!
AJ
Great, very informative video. I am awaiting the arrival of a new machine, and am going to upgrade to a new shower screen. Watching this video has confirmed my original choice of the IMS Nanotech shower screen. Thanks!
Thanks James. Glad I could help confirm your decision. Enjoy the new machine!
AJ
fantastic comparison
I didn't know before that a shower screen like Matrix existed
Thanks! It's really weird when you first see it because it's so different from every other screen.
AJ
Great vid... what shower screen would you recommend for a sage barista Express..?? I'm using a 54mm bottomless portafilter..?? Thanks 👍🏻😎
I currently use a Lelit Mara X with those improvements :
- Silicon gasket
- IMS 60 mm E61 200 IM Shower screen
- 1.7mm/150um puck screen
I'm very happy, I have good extractions, easy cleaning with very few coffee back above the shower screen (thx puck screen!).
I'd like to try to improve either with IMS Nanotech or Matrix.
Thank you AJ fot your great video... beautifull shots btw!! But despite this, I still don't know which one I'll chose.
Any advice someone 🤔 ?
fantastic video ! thank you very much !
Glad you liked it!
Thank you for a very concise review. Excellent job!
Thanks Rick!
AJ
Is it a representative test to analyse the flow distribution without the flow resistance of a loaded portafilter? I'm not sure.
Just installed the E&B lab screen and it had a nicely dispersed shower pattern for about 20 minutes, now there’s basically just one large stream in the middle, can’t pull a decent shot at all. I will reinstall it later today but am wondering if anyone has any thoughts about it? Tried adjusting my flow control to all settings and just cannot get it to disperse water evenly
Hi, I just bought the IMS nanotech Shower screen and tried it out. But in my Lelit Bianca it doesn't create en even rainfall like in your video at all. Some/many holes, where no water is coming through. What could be the problem?
I love my IMS in my Profitec Pro 600. I flush after every shot I pull and thoroughly clean my brew group once a month pulling 2-4 double shots every day. I also use a puck screen on my coffee. When I do my monthly cleaning and remove the shower screen amd it is almost spotless. I think flushing after every pull is the ticket.
Hi JB, Thanks for sharing details of your process!
I have a ecm syncronika brand new… I ordered a ims screen and it did not fit. I had the same o e on my profitec 700 and I did not have this issue. Do they come on different sizes for the e61?
Could I upgrade the shower screen for Rancilio class 5 usb 58mm grouphead 1 to IMS 200IM FINE SHOWER SCREEN . Please do reply on this as I am really struggling to find answers to this
Really useful thanks. I have an Electra micro casa and always a nightmare trying to get the shower screen off.
Yeah they can be a pain to take off and can risk damage to the screen, which is why we don't recommend people doing it too often other than for occasional cleaning.
AJ
great video. thanks you.
So nice of you
Thanks AJ for the timely video, as I just noticed the Matrix screen and was wondering about the effectiveness of it. I have the IMS shower screen and use IMS and VST baskets of various sizes, however, I also use a B-Plus puck screen and I am more than satisfied with the outcome of my espresso shots. I have a Rocket Mozzafiato with the PID and Rotor Pump that I use for my coffee fix and couldn't be happier. Again, thanks for the video as you saved my some $$$ because without your comparisons I know I would have purchase the Matrix shower screen just to give it a try.
I personally think the combo of a smoother shower screen (like IMS or Pesado) with a puck screen is the way to go. No coffee left on the screen and all the dispersion benefits :)
@@petercaddy So you'd say that the coffee puck filter which appears to be a new trend, isn't just when ur using the crappy stock shower but even if already using something like the "IMS Nanotech Precision" shower??? Ive always been sceptical but prolly will buy one later this year.
Hey Roger, thanks for the comment. Sounds like you've got a good system going. We're working on getting some puck screens in to play around with.
AJ
What tool do you use to remove screens? Mine never pop off like that.
I have the E&B Lab by IMS which has hole coverage all the way to centre, it's a thing of beauty.
It's funny the regular IMS one has a LARGER blocked center portion than even the stock screen, I'm wondering if it makes a difference having the center portion blocked off or not.
@@BensCoffeeRants It can't help surely? We're raking pucks to stop doughnut extractions after all...
Great video AJ. I’ve recently replaced the stock gasket and shower screen on my Profitec 500 with silicone gasket and IMS nanotech screen. My pucks kept sticking to the new shower screen, so I increased the IMS basket from 18g to 20g for my 18g puck, thinking the new shower screen must be sitting lower and hence touching the puck during brewing. The 20g basket puck stopped sticking but now showed large wells on the puck surface - possibly a sign of channeling? - so I swapped back to the stock screen and 18g basket. No more sticking puck. No more channeling. Any thoughts? Have WLL seen this before with the IMS nanotech shower screens?
Hi JE, Thanks for the comment and question. I have not observed pucks sticking to nanotech screens. Perhaps an odd combination of screen, basket type and coffee dose causing that but hard to say. The geometry of the IMS baskets is different than stock and may be less grabby on the coffee puck. Large wells (or holes) could indicate channeling. How are your extractions? Did grind size change when using the IMS baskets?
Hi, are there precision screens for the Rancilio Silvia? thx
Thanks for the Video I like the IMS
In your shower screen showdown, when you showed the extraction times (only for gaggia, you did not share for bezzera), the IMS extracted marginally faster than the BIT , which contradicts this video where the BIT extracts a lot faster than the IMS.
I’m wondering if they updated the shower screen, if the testing methodology was updated recently or if machine plays a important role in the difference - that would mean making shopping decisions based on comparison videos is not accurate
Your video convinced me to buy an IMS Nano screen and basket.
Do you start your brew timer when pulling the leaver or on first drip?
Hi Arman. I usually start timing with first drip. With that, most of my extractions time out in the low 30's. But start whenever you like and be consistent - it's only relative to your own set of variables. Timing is the most basic measure of an extraction.
Beautiful color in Bit Shower Screen!
You mean the IMS? That's the one with the colorful nanotech coating.
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage Yes, AJ, In 8:11 side by side, extraction is more beautiful. Thank you from Brazil.
I just purchased the IMS shower screen for my profitec p700 and it does not fit. Does not allow the gasket to set into the group head. Anyone else have issues like this?
great video, thank you. I have 2022 Model of Profitec PRO 500 PID Heat Exchange machine. Will the IMS Nanotech E61 Shower Screen fit into that particular model year? Do I need to also buy a matching rubber seal with this shower screen? If so, which ring seal do you suggest? Thank you.
Hi y, yes this shower screen fits the machine: www.wholelattelove.com/products/ims-nanotech-e61-shower-screen?variant=19441712037942
You do not need to change the group gasket (rubber seal) to use the Nanotech E61 screen.
Perfectly shot and edited and great information! Just got my Profitec Pro 600 and was thinking about upgrading the screen. I am interested what the pressure drop across the DVG E61 Matrix screen would be, if it's significant enough that the actual pressure at the portafilter wouldn't be reflected on my flow control E61 pressure gauge, or that you should calibrate pressure up a bit to compensate. It may be negligible.
Hi Blaine, Have not tested that but near 100% certain it's negligible.
Awesome and very in-depth video.
One question: why didn’t they make the holes to cover the whole area instead of only the circumference?
Thank you! Good question and here's my best take on it - in E61 groups, water is shot down through the center of the group onto a dispersion plate/screw which redirects it out to the sides. Different machines will have a different pattern of dispersion from the plate, so I imagine the dead spot in the center serves as an equalizer so water spreads evenly above the shower screen regardless of which direction it is being spread.
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage Oh yes that explains! I guess this won’t work that well on my Londinium ^^
I like my IMS nanotech shower screen, i think the best thing about it is that it is so easy to keep clean compared to the stock version.
I agree!
AJ
Regular non nanotech is also easy to clean since it's a pretty smoooth surface vs most stock shower screens. I think the Matrix is also a bit tougher to clean if you get coffee stuck to it.
Stainless Steel puckscreens do work to keep your group and shower head a lot cleaner I Found.
Thing of it is, I used an IMS 200NT screen and compared to my Profitec Pro 700 screen, it tasted flat, watery and extracted out very strangely. It extraced at the correct same time. Very confusing results. Surprised!
The Profitec screen brewed a more rounded, fuller-tasting coffee that I much preferred to the more expensive screen.
Taste test demonstrated to me that I needed to return my new shower screen and keep the old.
I will be looking for an E&B shower screen that looks like my original in hopes that it has the same flavor as my Profitec.
That's my story and I'm sticking to it!
Hey JR, thanks for sharing your experience!
Hello, nice video. Do you think the IMS Nanotech E61 Shower Screen could fit into Nuova Simonelli Appia Life 2GR COMPACT ? As it is supposed to have smaller head I think. If not, you have in mind other IMS products, that would fit this machine?
Hi PX, Thanks for the comment and question. Unfortunately I do not have that NS machine available to test the shower screen.
Hey AJ. Great video. Quick question. How often should you change the shower screen? Normal home use. I hace the IMS and I take it out and clean it every 3 months but lately I have noticed a degradation and uneven water flow. Ive had it now for 2 years so I think it may be time to change it. Thanks in advance.
Rey.
Hey Rey, If noticing degradation then maybe time to replace. But, do check behind shower screen. Assuming you do regular back flush maintenance etc.
@@Wholelattelovepage Yes I do my backflush regularly and do regular maintenance.
I tried the IMS nano tech 18gm basket for Breville DB and actually had increased channeling than stock. It also didn't have that colored sheen so maybe I was sent the wrong model. None the less, I've heard baskets are the best upgrade, but unless I did something wrong (totally possible) I saw no benifit from ims basket vs stock breville. I'm curious now about shower screens from the cleanup side and if it would reduce the SUCK that Brevilles have with espresso pucks after the shot. It's annoying to keep having to scrape the puck of with a spoon. Would a shower screen change that?
I imagine the shower screen won't have much effect on removing the puck after a shot, except potentially the Matrix. They claim their screen results in drier pucks. I found a Home Barista forum thread where the manufacturer explained this, "The filter is so dense, it creates a back pressure and has an internal pressure working inside the pores. the back pressure allows for a drier coffee because it means there's always water above the shower "denied" passage to the portafilter, which under a normal filter would just pass freely. that layer is sucked back easier."
AJ
Baristas and competition, that is what it is all about, in other words a good money making subject. Who is to tell you of how you like your coffee and every other thing but for you to find out and that will be the best you ever had because it's done by you and the way you love it. Have you ever thought is it really possible to have hundreds different types of grinders, coffee machines, scales and a thousands other things for a grain of coffee. Always remember a cup of really good coffee is when you do it for yourself the way you like it and not the way they tell you how you should do it. Competitions have certain rules that is why it's called competition at home you have their rules
Hi AJ, your video influenced me to purchase the IMS Nano Quartz screen from my local supplier. They threw in a puck screen too so I could provide them with some feedback. After a week of using both together I'm very impressed. No clean up! Have you experimented with and tested out puck screens too? Cheers, Craig
Hi Craig, glad to hear that combo is working well for you! I've actually had a puck screen sitting on my desk for the last month but haven't played around with it yet. We're definitely planning a future video on those!
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage Hi AJ, I think you'll be impressed. I'd be interested to see if there were differences when combining them with different shower screens. I'd also be interested in knowing how they (combined with the shower screen) protect the the machine from internal coffee oil buildup etc. What I'm seeing is a much cleaner/clearer drip tray as a consequence of both a cleaner grouphead as well as what is coming through the solenoid valve. The puck screen compresses the coffee puck during extraction too meaning pucks come out easier. Cheers AJ and say gidday to Marc from me (Craig the Kiwi) :)
Another espresso question. I have the Breville DB and had issues with normal and naked portafilter spraying around the grouphead when pulling shots. I saw the the group head gasket was corroding. I replaced it with a new stock on and that stopped the nornal portafilter from having that issue. But the naked one constantly sprays, A LOT, around the group head. The one time it didn't I cranked so hard to lock I thought I'd break the group head. It's Brevilles brand naked portafilter. Should I try another or is something else going on?
I'm not entirely sure but I stumbled on this video which might explain it - maybe a cracked diffuser?
th-cam.com/video/F3otoWLl74Q/w-d-xo.html
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage I did have a cracked diffuser and replaced that too. Same issue. Either Portafilter is off somehow or I don't know. But it's wierd that only the bottomless does it. Thanks for the response! 😀
Pulling two shots a day, how often would you say would we need to change out the screen? I've used the same one for about a year now.
Hi G, Only need to change if damaged or so dirty it cannot be cleaned.
Since the flow is slightly different, it is not unexpected that extraction will be different resulting in different intensity of acidity or body. It may happen that the grind setting favours the IMS.
As for maintenance, it's not the surface underneath that is concerning, it's the inner side and the matrix does look a lot better, but will it suffer from debris or coffee oil getting stuck in the fine holes is another question. You will still need to flush for all the screens.
Also a concern is the nano-tech non-stick from the IMS, is it toxic? Is it a ceramic or teflon coating in disguise which eventually wears off?
If a screen does reduces acidity on a light roast, there's fair chance it increases bitterness especially for a dark roast, it is hard to confirm if it tastes better or worse depending on the preference of the drinker and the type of coffee used. I realise that more folks on the street prefer darker roasts(often including a good robusta) than lighter roasts. Rather than TDS, i personally think a blind test by a panel of casual drinkers with both dark and light roast will be more appropriate.
In any case, this is another high quality WLL video that is very educative and explains the screens very well. I'm still rewatching the troubleshoot Expobar video which I reckon to be the most useful video for repairs on youtube
Agreed, different flow certainly has an effect on the extraction and taste characteristics. I actually expected the flow/timing differences to be more dramatic. Discounting the BIT basket, the other three finished within one second of each other, so I considered that mostly a nonfactor for those shots.
Interesting question about debris getting stuck in the fine holes on the Matrix. While I didn't perform any long-term tests or examine it under a microscope, after my usage I didn't see any signs of blockage.
I haven't heard or read of any toxicity concerns with the NanoQuartz coating. From IMS's website, "This coating is non sticky and it is certified for food contact. Even maintaining the same functional features as other non sticky coatings, this material is much more durable and resistant thanks to its hardness. The nano techological productive process allows for a strong adhesion of the coating on the piece therefore preventing the material from peeling off." I believe it is different from teflon, however it will likely fade over time with long-term use.
I didn't do any testing with dark roasts. I think you're right that most drive-through-chain-restaurant drinkers prefer dark roasts and there's nothing wrong with that, however I haven't found that to be the case in the specialty coffee and espresso world. A blind test would be more telling in some respects, but introduce far more variables in others - taster preferences, variances shot to shot, etc.
Anyway, thanks for the comment and discussion!
AJ
You ask “are shower screen upgrades worth it?” I reply: YES. Did it on a ViaVenezia, and it has made a significant difference. I can grind finer and pre-infuse more effectively.
Hi GK, Thanks for sharing your experience!
Just got the ims shower screen for my exm classika pid with flow control with 8.5 and a 8 mm gasket. The water doesn’t come out like rain droplets and some holes don’t even have water come out. Did I do something wrong?
Hi Eugene, could be a couple things. First, simply make sure your machine is sitting level on the the counter. The feet can be screwed in or out to adjust their individual heights. The Classika uses a vibration pump as opposed to the rotary pump machine I showed in the video. In vib pump machine, pressure builds up more slowly and flow rate is generally lower, which may lead to the difference. Additionally, the alignment of your screen combined with the alignment of your dispersion screw could cause this. You could try rotating one or the other slightly to see if that helps.
AJ
Im happy with my EMS for the Strega
Hey r, Awesome - thanks for the feedback!
What are your thoughts about the nanotech coating breaking down when using a backflush cleaning solution?
Hey EJ, you're correct that chemical backflushing tends to speed up the wearing down of the nanotech coating. You could do regular water-only backflushes with the screen on, then remove the screen when you do your detergent backflushes. Or, just leave it on and after the coating wears away over time, you're still left with a high-quality IMS shower screen, just with less of the non-stick effect.
AJ
Way I see it, it takes a much lower priority than a good basket. Most stock screens are just fine. I've been considering an IMS screen for my Silvia Pro, though, just for cleanup reasons. Those mesh screens get clogged with coffee and it is incredibly annoying to clean them.
Agreed, if you're only going to upgrade one, I would prioritize the basket. That said, there are advantages to each.
AJ
Do you think it’s necessary to upgrade shower screen if I use a puck screen? Or it can only make my shot better?
Hi dd, shower screen can help with flow onto the coffee and aftermarkets stay cleaner and are easier to clean. Also you don't give up space in the portafilter for a puck screen.
I wonder how the introduction of a puck screen or top paper would affect things?
Working on getting some puck screens to test out!
AJ
What would you recommend for the La Speciale mini vivaldi S1
Hi Rob, I don't have any experience with La Spaziale and I don't believe we carry any specialty screens that would fit it, sorry.
AJ
Use a puck screen with the Matrix. No cleaning needed beyond that of a back flush. I love my Matrix screen.
Good advice. We don't currently carry puck screens but I'll have to get my hands on one to play around with.
AJ
Where did you get the wooden knobs for the pro 700 from?
Hi Bradley, we have custom wood parts for the Pro 700 available on here: www.wholelattelove.com/products/profitec-pro-700-dual-boiler-espresso-machine
Click the "customize your machine in 3D" button to select and preview different wood species. The one in the video is walnut.
Due to limited supply, we're currently only offering the wood components on new machines, rather than as a separate upgrade.
AJ
I have a couple friends that are (almost) violently against these. they say they’re a scam and do nothing, and you’re stupid to buy one. I got one for My gaggia classic pro and it reduced channeling. for me, along with the dimmer mod, channeling is no longer an issue!
Yeah, totally a worthwhile buy and upgrade. Your friends are just uninformed on them.
Great to hear! There will always be haters for every machine, upgrade, and technique. If you're finding benefit from the mods you've done, that's all that matters.
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage that’s My take on it. if you’re making better espresso for yourself. that’s what matters. one of the friends I referenced i think is just jealous cuz he sees people on reddit, with a much cheaper modded gcp making espresso on par with his lelit bianca v3. 🙃
Is the stock Pro 700 screen the same as the ECM Synchronika?
Hey Rob, Yes the same screen will fit.
I have a challenge in finding any aftermarket for my Rocket R91. any clue ideas?
Hi mb, Online espresso/coffee boards, user groups?
@@Wholelattelovepage nobody seems to know what is the model i need to order for R91
Thank you very much for this comparaison - and eventually confirming my own choice of an IMS NanoQuartz shower screen ;-)
Being a total beginner, I like the idea that I do not have to “blame” any under-par material if I am _not_ happy with my results in the cup.
This IMS NanoQuartz is really fun to wipe off after each shot, no fuzz whatsoever…
Great to hear! Even as a beginner, it sounds like you're already going down a good path by choosing quality equipment.
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage Dear AJ, you are very friendly guys on this channel, thank you ;-)
By choosing decent material right from the start, you normally are on the safe side…
This Austrian guy in the shop where I got this IMS shower screen from had the silly idea to start with the OEM shower screen - and only then switch to the IMS NanoQuartz shower screen…
“In order to spot the difference in taste.” Oh, dear…
Sorry, but even if he _is_ holding a Ph.D. degree, - his subject might _not_ be that of a home barista.
Austria??? Well, you never know…
For a good reason, I have been mulling to buy an _ECM Synchronika_ level machine for more than twenty years.
Finally, I could afford it - and I am pretty sure that ECM’s OEM shower screen would do the job…
But, hell, this is no reason for me to give it a try in order to compare it.
I heavily rely on first grade TH-cam channels like yours ;-)
Lazy Germans…
Finally changed out the grouphead gasket and the screen on my bezzera bz13, and I never knew what I was missing. The ims screen is so easy to clean, and the upgrade I bought came with a desperately needed silicone gasket!
Great to hear! It's amazing how much of a difference a couple simple upgrades can make.
AJ
With good maintenance and regular cleaning can a screen last indefinitely?
Hi there. A shower screen can 100% last a lifetime if properly cared for, especially the IMS-type screens that forgo the metal mesh screen.
Are there any options for a Profitec Pro 800?
Hi John, I believe any of these E61 screens would also work on the Pro 800.
AJ
Will the IMS Nanotech work on a Lelit Mara X?
I haven't personally used the Mara X, but it should fit any machine with an E61 group.
AJ
Can I use IMS shower screen on the gaggia classic pro?
IMS makes a separate shower screen specifically for the Gaggia Classic Pro: www.wholelattelove.com/products/ims-nanotech-gaggia-classic-shower-screen
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage Thanks🙏
Got the IMS Nanotec as well as the DVG Matrix. They are both big upgrades compared to the stock ECM. With the Nanotec I experienced some wash outs on the coffee pucks after a while(3 to 4 superficial holes), which is why I updated to the Matrix. The Matrix rly is the best in terms of water distribution. Coffee puck looks almost completely flat after extraction. On the downside, the Matrix requires a super clean surface to function like intented, which means a wipe of the shower before every espresso. Im now using a Profitec puck screen. Rly a great device, that enhances water distribution even further and leaves the shower clean.
Hi Ss, Thanks for sharing the details of your experience!
Used the IMS nanotech as well as the matrix screen, and rocking the latter as one of the first adopters -- I got it during the pandemic getting lucky with my online purchase.
I can't vouch for the crema story but I did notice a subtle shift from acidic to sweet upon extensive testing (compared to the IMS). It may be the case that the EY can be higher with other screens, but I don't mind extracting less of the right stuff than more of the wrong stuff.
My shot times are relatively tight -- even though I drink mostly acidic coffees -- because my burrset allows it. I can imagine the matrix will be even less favourable at higher ratios.
Hi TB, Thanks for sharing your experience!
What machine are you using? also, where’s mark?
In the video I was using a Profitec Pro 700 with custom wood accents: www.wholelattelove.com/products/profitec-pro-700-dual-boiler-espresso-machine
Marc is still here! He just posted a video yesterday reviewing the updated Profitec Pro 500 PID: th-cam.com/video/vuci2UFdt4w/w-d-xo.html
AJ
Add in a puck screen and you don't even have to clean the under side as well.
Is it worth it on a cheap/entry level machine?
Hi TR14, Thanks for the question. Depends on the product. It's a NO for entry-level appliance grade which use pressurized portafilter - fairly certain it's not even possible on most of those. It's a YES when you get into premium entry-level true machines like the Gaggia Classic Pro with commercial sized components.
The BIT seemed to start popping out the most evenly, the others all seemed to be slightly more in the direction of the solenoid whereas the BIT was entirely even
IMS Shower & VST Standard ends all the way. :)
Great combo!
AJ
Is this LPL?
Don't think so
I’m going to need a close up of those hands to confirm
Very nice video, I love that kind of review. I didn't wait long when I received my (Rocket R58) to upgrade the crappy stock shower for the IMS Nanotech, same for the baskets. However it's been almost 3 years and you'd be lucky if the rainbow Nanotech last for a full year which is a real shame as not only it loses its cool look, but I guess it also lose some of its anti-stick function.
What bugs me down the most is why the F does these "Proud Italians building the best machines on earth by hands, costing several thousands..." still bundle their machine on purpose with the worst possible shower and stamped Chinese basket knowing for a fact it is trash?! They already have IMS being in Italy too, just partner up with them and include stock their showers and basket already no?! I can't see why at 2500-4000$ they would still cheap out on the 2 most important parts just to save 100$ at most when they already charge for it...
The answer, as always, is profit... With my "hand made in Italy" Lelit, I had to rebuild the steam mechanism out of the box because it leaked. The Italians may know how to make a machine that makes good coffee, but they don't tend to be the best at manufacturing things, and their high labor costs mean they cut corners on things, like the basket and screen...
@@Microang You're unfortunately right, but it stills bug me down to why don't they charge it to the customer and pre-install these IMS upgrades which 100% if everyone agree that it's way better. The retail cost for us for 1 unit isn't all that much, so you'd guess if they buy thousands it wouldn't be as much, so they could just up the price of 60$ and offer their machine with a IMS shower and basket.
It would give them a competitive edge over their competitor, up the company's reputation, etc and if it's the customer that's paying for it by including that extra 60$ buck in the price then it's win-win for everyone no? Cutting the corner of a 3000$ machine to sell it 50$ less is just purely stupid.
@@PanzerIV88 they also probably know you'll buy the machine anyway. So why bother? Plus they don't want to step on the toes of their competitors. And we're also assuming companies like IMS have the capacity to produce these in the quantities that would be demanded. Most people who buy machines, even commercial ones, never change anything from stock...
If the rainbow Nanotech last for a full year?! Who cares? You’d have replaced the screen earlier than that anyway.
A bit hyperbolic to call the stock components crappy, trash, etc. They will be fine for a majority of casual users. As with any hobby, there are customizable upgrades for the people who want to dive deeper into the niche, or experiment with different variables. If the manufacturer included a precision 16g basket, people would complain, "why wouldn't they include a 18g basket when that's a WAY better dose?"
While we don't manufacture the machines, we are starting to sell upgraded packages to include higher quality components with the machine, such as the Gaggia Classic Prestige, which comes with wooden portafilter, wooden tamper, precision filter basket, and silicone group gasket - all for less price than buying those components individually: www.wholelattelove.com/products/gaggia-classic-prestige
AJ
Puedo scientists at work
IMS 4 lyfe
فيديو رائع 👍 ⭐️🤍.
Translation (arabic): Great video 👍 ⭐️ .
شكرا لمشاهدتك!
Thank you for watching!
AJ
Almost no comment about the fact that the Matrix don't get dirty in the inside but it's the best feature you can have. Having your water filtered by stale coffee oils is no no no good but who actually does the required cleaning? Not many. Forget about all the shit, have a machine clean from oils.
Hey TOEC, You are correct!
Alternatively you could use a $20 Normcore shower screen and never have to clean up into your grouphead again.
Working on getting some puck screens here to play with!
AJ
I think I have to get the matrix just because I've never tried anything like it
It was definitely fun experimenting with something completely different!
AJ
Why do you wipe your shower screen?! Like why 😅
To keep things clean!
AJ
The streams have nothing the correlates to pressing through a cup. The pressure will make things much more even. I just put a screen on top of my grounds for $6.. and I’m sure it’ll help distribution and mess free cleaning. Best of both worlds imo. Get a 58.5mm screen… good luck
Working on getting some puck screens to play with. Stay tuned.
AJ
IMS Nanotech 👍👍👍👍🌈🌈🌈☕️☕️☕️
DAMN MATRIX SCREEN IS GARBAGE
Haha I definitely wouldn't say that. It's unique and the flow may not look great without a portafilter in, but it's a really cool piece of equipment that deserves some further experimenting.
AJ