La Marzocco Machine Configurations
Working in the equipment service industry, we truly appreciate the privilege of collaborating with finely crafted machines. Among these, La Marzocco stands out as a cornerstone in the foundation of the specialty coffee movement. The renowned La Marzocco Linea Classic, in particular, is celebrated for its exceptional design, unparalleled craftsmanship, and top-tier performance. Over time, it has evolved into an enduring symbol of quality and reliability within the realm of espresso machines.
While the Linea Classic frequently graces the heart of many coffee establishments, it's worth noting that La Marzocco offers an array of machine models, each distinguished by its unique design and distinct set of features. Furthermore, these models provide several options for brewing automation, tailored to meet the precise requirements of individual end-users. In the following sections, we'll delve into the distinctions among the various machines in the La Marzocco lineup.
When selecting an espresso machine for your cafe, the pivotal starting point is unraveling the distinctions in the brewing mechanisms offered by La Marzocco machines. These brewing methods not only dictate the flow within the bar area and the training regimen for baristas but also influence the degree of automation and complexity in preventive maintenance programs.
At the foundational level, you'll find the semi-automatic machines in La Marzocco's EE configuration. These EE machines require baristas to manually start and stop each espresso shot by toggling a switch or pressing a button. As the specialty coffee industry gravitates towards precise dosing and shot yields, operating a semi-automatic machine becomes more labor-intensive and leaves room for inconsistencies in the final product. Barista training is critical to maintain uniformity and accuracy throughout the entire staff.
For those seeking a degree of automation, La Marzocco provides the AV or "Auto Volumetric" option. These machines feature multiple buttons, each programmable by the barista. In a busy cafe setting, AV machines contribute to consistent output from one drink to the next. Each group on these machines incorporates a flow meter that ends the shot when the preset amount of water has been dispensed. While AV machines still require regular dialing-in, their shot-to-shot consistency satisfies the requirements of most cafes.
At the top of La Marzocco's lineup are the ABR units, available only on select models. ABR machines are equipped with built-in scales that accurately measure the dispensed coffee in grams. Using predictive drip technology, the machine precisely cuts off the water flow to achieve the desired shot weight. When calibrated accurately, these ABR machines exhibit remarkable precision down to a fraction of a gram. La Marzocco holds the patent for incorporating scales into machines, making ABR machines the only choice for cafes necessitating this level of precision.
On the opposite end of the equipment technology spectrum are the fully manual brewing styles, designed for highly technical baristas. If you're interested in pre-infusion, pressure profiling, or the classical lever action machines, the MP, EP, or Lever configurations must be considered. Each of these options offers an array of intricacies that warrant a dedicated discussion, but in well-trained hands, they are capable of producing extraordinary coffee.
Choosing a new espresso machine for your cafe can be a complex endeavor. The initial step in equipment selection should revolve around determining the most fitting brewing configuration that aligns with your cafe's unique requirements. In a forthcoming article, we'll delve into the distinctions between various machine models, further demystifying the La Marzocco line of espresso machines.