The La Marzocco Model Guide
In the world of specialty coffee, the name La Marzocco stands as a beacon of excellence and innovation. Renowned for their exceptional espresso machines, La Marzocco has been a driving force in the coffee industry for nearly a century. As coffee culture has evolved and refined, so too have their machines. In this article, we will discuss the various models of La Marzocco machines, exploring their rich history, technological advancements, and the distinct features that have made them a beloved choice for coffee enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you're an aspiring barista, a coffee shop owner, or simply a coffee aficionado, understanding the different models of La Marzocco machines is essential for appreciating the craftsmanship, performance, and quality that this iconic brand has consistently delivered.
There are several notable La Marzocco models, each with its unique characteristics and capabilities. Here's a brief overview of some of the key models:
The La Marzocco Linea Classic EE
1. La Marzocco Linea Classic:
The Linea Classic is a true icon in the world of espresso machines. It's celebrated for its timeless design, reliability, and performance. This model features a dual boiler system, PID temperature control, and saturated group heads, ensuring precision and consistency in espresso extraction. With its powerful steam wands and durable stainless steel construction, it's a top choice for bustling coffee shops and cafes. The Linea Classic offers several dosing configurations and can be customized to suit various aesthetic preferences, making it a staple in many specialty coffee establishments.
The La Marzocco Linea PB ABR with custom logo, powder coat, steam and portafilter wooden accents and brass drink rail.
2. La Marzocco Linea PB:
The Linea PB series builds upon the Linea Classic's legacy with added modern features. It introduces an advanced PID system, which allows baristas to fine-tune the brewing temperature for different coffee beans and profiles. The Linea PB also features the unique "Eco Mode" for energy efficiency during idle periods. The Piero group caps bring a new level of temperature stability for the coffee industry, and a more simple access for preventative maintenance. When configured with ABR scales, it is the most accurate dosing machine currently available world wide. Its customizable aesthetic options, including custom branding, offer a touch of personalization. This model is a fantastic choice for those who seek traditional craftsmanship combined with contemporary technology.
The La Marzocco Linea Mini with a custom powder coat
3. La Marzocco Linea Mini:
The Linea Mini is a compact, home-friendly version of the Linea series, designed for coffee enthusiasts who want to bring the cafe experience into their kitchen. It features a dual boiler system, PID temperature control, and a dedicated steam boiler, offering professional-level performance in a smaller package. The Linea Mini maintains the classic La Marzocco look and ensures that you can pull café-quality shots at home. It's perfect for those who are passionate about making exceptional espresso in the comfort of their own space, or mobile coffee businesses that desire easy transportation without compromising performance.
The La Marzocco Strada EP
4. La Marzocco Strada:
The La Marzocco Strada is the flagship model for coffee professionals who demand absolute control over their espresso extractions. It features independent brew boilers and advanced pressure profiling, allowing baristas to experiment with various brewing profiles and optimize the flavor of different coffee beans. The Strada is highly versatile and suits the needs of specialty coffee shops and roasteries seeking the utmost precision in espresso preparation.
A custom rebuilt La Marzocco GB5 EE
5. La Marzocco GB5:
The La Marzocco GB5 shares many familiar features with the Linea PB, but it has a very different external design. With softer curves, and La Marzocco’s iconic lion, or the fleur-de-lis on the GB5S, this model really is a show piece for any cafe. The GB5 also has some additional benefits such as 24V electronics, dimmable barista lights, and optional cold touch steam wands.
The La Marzocco KB90
6. La Marzocco KB90:
Every decade, La Marzocco launches a new machine to honor a member of the La Marzocco family. The KB90 was named after Kent Bakke, the man responsible for bringing La Marzocco to the US market as an importer in 1978. The KB90 has extremely unique and eye-catching lines, making it a visual experience for cafe guests. On the barista end of things, straight-in portafilters, automatic steam flush, half-turn steam valves, independent coffee boilers, pro-touch steam wands, and the optional ABR scales mean that La Marzocco pushed every innovation and option into this model.
The La Marzocco LEVA X
7. La Marzocco LEVA:
A testament to the traditional lever actuated machines, La Marzocco updated the LEVA to have the same action on the actuator as the traditional machines, but it is packed with modern innovations that add greater control over the entire brew process. The LEVA allows for preinfusion at line pressure, as well as the ability to select the volume of shots based on how far the handle will travel. Pressure swing can be adjusted by spring tension, and with the LEVA X version a digital display gives the barista visual feedback on the shot progress to ensure consistency.
8. La Marzocco Strada X
Just announced at HOST Milano 2023. Although complete details are not yet available, the bullet points for the Strada X seem to incorporate the best parts of the Strada EP with the ABR scales, and some more powerful feedback loops to ensure total brewing control and consistency. With the addition of the straight-in portafilters and steam rinse cycle from the KB90, the Strada X stands to be the most equipped model made by La Marzocco yet. As details emerge, we will be looking at this model more closely.
Each La Marzocco model embodies the brand's commitment to quality and innovation, whether in the context of a busy cafe, a passionate home barista's kitchen, or the experimentation-driven environment of specialty coffee. These models are a testament to La Marzocco's legacy in shaping the coffee industry. With so many feature-rich options and different designs and models available, it is clear why La Marzocco stands as one of the biggest names in the coffee industry.
