La Pavoni Espresso Machine | Video Blog

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  • Опубліковано 5 лют 2025
  • In this video, Steve shares about how he prepares espresso on his personal pre-millennium La Pavoni Europiccola lever espresso machine. While lever machines aren't quite as easy to use as more modern alternatives, they still hold their own and are capable of pulling fantastic shots once you've gotten the hang of the fully manual extraction.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 388

  • @Mr_Foeko
    @Mr_Foeko 4 роки тому +1

    I ordered this machine as a starting uni student, had some money left over, seeing this video guarantees me that with some practice, this machine will hugely increase my quality of life.

  •  5 років тому +48

    I have a 1962 model (year I was born) It's as good today as when it was made, can't say the same about myself!

    • @abcde.1998
      @abcde.1998 4 роки тому

      Hppy brthday bro

    • @toddpower4674
      @toddpower4674 4 роки тому

      I just ordered one.
      Bought a manual grinder and ordered this i hope its fun to use

  • @ziptiefighter
    @ziptiefighter 8 років тому +133

    This is, hands down, the most informative/thorough La Pavoni instructional vid I've seen to date. It has me reconsidering a La Pavoni as my first home espresso machine. I like the La Pavoni's simplicity, portability, easy-to-repairability. And at a fraction of the cost of full size machines, it seems a reasonable gamble. Kind of like buying an old Harley. Lots of personality, might drive you nuts occasionally, but has a can't-help-but-love-it appeal.

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  8 років тому +8

      That's exactly how Steve feels about his - it's a little laborious but the payoff is great. Plus, you can find some of the older models in great shape for a song, which is a great way to kickstart that home espresso setup.

    • @keixsy
      @keixsy 6 років тому

      it is so pretty T.T

    • @mawean
      @mawean 5 років тому +4

      Pair it with a very good hand grinder (e.g. Lido E, Comandante C40 or Kinu M47) and you have a great starter setup which allows you to learn the basics of espresso-making while having the opportunity to produce some really great shots for actually very little money. With the Europiccola technique and consistency is key.

    • @humanormachine2936
      @humanormachine2936 4 роки тому +2

      @@mawean I really appreciate how this machine kind of forces you to learn how to actually make espresso rather than simply making espresso for you.

    • @landynnathan7430
      @landynnathan7430 3 роки тому

      you all probably dont give a shit but does any of you know a trick to log back into an Instagram account??
      I was stupid forgot the account password. I appreciate any help you can offer me

  • @Sc-ld7os
    @Sc-ld7os 3 роки тому

    Best La Pavoni instructional video on UA-cam

  • @johne7100
    @johne7100 7 років тому +35

    Lovely machines, quite addictive. I end up drinking too much coffee because pulling them is so much fun.
    I have a bean-to-cup machine for visitors.

  • @TOMinPDX
    @TOMinPDX 8 років тому +6

    Great video. I recently bought a 1974 Europiccola and having looked at a lot of videos on UA-cam I find this is one of the most helpful. Thank you!

  • @nncoco
    @nncoco 6 років тому +13

    I just bought one of these machines in brass for $20 at a yard sale on my street. It takes some time to heat up but I made a very nice shot on my first try with paper instructions. The steamed milk was the best I have ever seen from a home machine. Thank you for this great video explaining in more detail how to pull the ideal shot.

    • @pear7777
      @pear7777 6 років тому +1

      tracy smith $20?even for an old used one,which mi b ht need a restoration, that's a steal, well done!

    • @jaredzhao665
      @jaredzhao665 6 років тому

      Maybe you're using a 220V machine on 120V? Warm up should be around 5 min normally

    • @ADRIAN-zh4ti
      @ADRIAN-zh4ti 6 років тому

      20$ ???? WOW

    • @julieankhan.2801
      @julieankhan.2801 5 років тому

      Wow what a score lucky you!

  • @billpalmer8128
    @billpalmer8128 8 років тому +5

    Hi Steve, nice one, thanks for taking the time to put this vid together. I use an old, old with a larger boiler. I think the modern model is a PL equivalent. La Pavoni machines are remarkably simple and give the operator great scope to enjoy pulling a great shot. But as you said, after some practice. It aint an auto thing! I am buying a 2 group La Pav for my cafe in Vietnam. Western coffee is gaining in popularity here soI have a ready excuse to upgrade. Lever machines always create interest for customers. Thanks for the tips. Bill

  • @MikeFLHT
    @MikeFLHT 4 роки тому +1

    GREAT job and explanation of the pre-mellenium Europiccola. Thanks a bunch.

  • @davidmancey
    @davidmancey 6 років тому +4

    The La Pavoni is a fun machine I love mine and can drive it well. Good to see someone using the leaver correctly and not trying to snap the machine.
    It's not a easy thing to master it's like learning to do photography anyone can take a picture with a camera on auto but can you drive a old 35mm film camera and understand how it works to get the picture your after?
    If your not interested in making mistakes and learning this is not the machine for you.
    If you a geek like me you will love this machine. But as Steve says it's only good for 2 to 3 coffee's If your entertaining 4 or more people just forget it.
    Good video Steve.

  • @bestespressotamper6552
    @bestespressotamper6552 7 років тому +6

    Love the Pavoni. Takes patience, especially at first, but it's super hard to beat for the money. Just such a good espresso maker.

  • @RobPirieCedarOtaCoffee
    @RobPirieCedarOtaCoffee 4 роки тому +4

    Saving my pennies for this thing! Can't wait to get one! Thanks for the tutorial!

  • @OneeyedJohn
    @OneeyedJohn 5 років тому +2

    Of all the vidoes , this is the best one so far.
    I have already ordered a Pavoni, so I am even more convinced I won't be disappointed.

  • @Chrisstian111
    @Chrisstian111 4 роки тому

    This helped a lot. Just received mine a week ago and your instructions were easy to follow.

  • @roosterstoker
    @roosterstoker 4 роки тому

    Steve,,, so nice to listen and see your video. Your voice and tone,, are really nice to listen to. Your knowledge of the subject shows through with a few extra tidbits to reflect on. My late brother started a coffee machine(cappuccino)servicing/sales business many moons ago (sold now), and because I was his brother, I was trapped into buying micro Pavoni similar to yours with gauge,and a grinder. I had used it for quite some time,, and at one point the temperature of the water became too hot, destroying the results (crema etc). Thanks to your video, I am going to clean, and revive my Pavoni.

  • @PS-td8hn
    @PS-td8hn 6 років тому +9

    I don't know what I'm doing here, I don't even like coffee that much (just a cup here and there), but this video is somehow quite relaxing

    • @alanschmitt9865
      @alanschmitt9865 6 років тому +1

      Manually making espresso is a lot like knitting: even if what you make is never intended for you, the process has plenty of intrinsic rewards.

  • @Anarchsis
    @Anarchsis 3 роки тому

    I have two- a 1976 La Pavoni Europiccola, and a millennium La Pavoni Professional. I use the Professional every day, the ‘76 is about to have a new heating element put in. Both steam great.

  • @MiguelRuiz-jm2te
    @MiguelRuiz-jm2te 6 років тому +2

    I'm blown out by the quality of this content, learned a lot! Definitely subscribing.

  • @michaelgershbeyn6250
    @michaelgershbeyn6250 7 років тому

    I had the euro professional (same machine just larger boiler) for almost 4 years. I learned to make espresso on it. It is very touchy but once you figure it out you can pull consistent shots. You can learn a lot from this machine, how just about any change (water pressure, grind, etc..) will affect your results. It doesn’t have a thermostat, it uses a pressurestat. That was something I changed out on my machine to an adjustable one for better control. It was a great machine but I sold it about a year because I got a great deal on a semi automatic FAEMA.

  • @deibertmichael
    @deibertmichael 8 років тому

    Sir you know your stuff! All the other people on YT didn't know how to operate this machine! Your Shot and milk look tasty!

  • @orrinbelcher6593
    @orrinbelcher6593 4 роки тому

    Great video fun and informative, beautiful espresso machine, thank you

  • @unapologeticcook7168
    @unapologeticcook7168 5 років тому +1

    Very articulate on how you explain how the lever machine works.

  • @stevensevo7918
    @stevensevo7918 2 роки тому

    great video, just got one. So excited, thanks!

  • @bakisolak
    @bakisolak 4 роки тому +1

    Nice shot!

  • @KettleCamping
    @KettleCamping 2 роки тому +1

    Great video! Thank you! 👍

  • @jrios662
    @jrios662 5 років тому

    That has to be the sexiest looking espresso machine I've ever seen. And you could tell by the expresso he made that it has to taste fantastic. Believe me I prefer one of those machines than a modern one. When it comes to Expresso machines analog always gives the best expresso I don't care what anybody says.

  • @hammya9158
    @hammya9158 4 роки тому

    God what I would pay to have some Quills coffee right now. I lived in the highlands for a few years pretty much across the street from quills and was there almost every day. Moved to Dallas a couple of years ago. Such a nice surprise while I was just checking out this machine.

  • @alexanderjavier2663
    @alexanderjavier2663 3 роки тому +1

    Nice video!

  • @luisangelarroyo30
    @luisangelarroyo30 3 роки тому

    I am a espresso coffee drinker,I may not be the best espresso maker but I love it so much I have several difrent kind of espresso machine, me n my fam enjoy having a great espresso maybe twice or three times a day, and I tell you this machine is beyond far the best I've ,beside the delonghi magnifica wich is an awesome espresso machine,I have a question how come the machine says made in Italy 🇮🇹 but when I go online for parts it comes from Sofia BG, I know theirs some that originator there don't know what kind or haven't looked it up yet,but yes I bought one last month and already replace all the seals in capsule and ohh boy they get Grimy,inside so I agree with you on that replace to keep them nice and clean,thank you for the classes to be able to do a great shot.awesome presentation God bless.

  • @MrMooserwirt
    @MrMooserwirt 4 роки тому +1

    Really helpful video - thanks!

  • @mkoutlaw
    @mkoutlaw 5 років тому +1

    Wow...this is without a doubt the best most informative video i have found. I am just like nononookyes. I had one rom 20 years ago that i never got the hang of...will not give up! i

  • @davidmcconnon2800
    @davidmcconnon2800 4 роки тому +1

    Beautiful machine.

  • @Nordic-bb8nw
    @Nordic-bb8nw 3 роки тому

    Nice video. Just got a 79 model. 1st thing I did was to pop the temp fuse.. :-(. Well I have ordered the new style heating element and conversion ring. Cant wait to get this machine up and running.

  • @mackhicks1853
    @mackhicks1853 3 роки тому

    Have a La Pavoni that I bought in Naples in 1976. I repainted the base but it’s still going strong,
    With almost daily use.

  • @bunkyman8097
    @bunkyman8097 9 місяців тому

    I bet that is a great cup of coffee. Thanks.

  • @zfloz9895
    @zfloz9895 7 років тому +8

    Well done man!
    Nice machine, good looking shot and microfoam! And nice explained, profesional work .

  • @josephdragan7734
    @josephdragan7734 4 роки тому +80

    If you like the idea of a small responsive sports car with a manual transmission... this is your machine.

    • @ostestyle
      @ostestyle 4 роки тому +3

      Okay.. This IS my machine. An Italian to accompany my small responsive potent frenchman, of a Peugoet 106 XSI.

    • @stephaniebraet5099
      @stephaniebraet5099 4 роки тому

      oh yeah, this espresso machine is for me then.

    • @dash9655
      @dash9655 3 роки тому +1

      hehehe mx-5 owner here, just bought an europiccola and liked this comment very much :)

  • @stevestewart-sturges2159
    @stevestewart-sturges2159 5 років тому

    Cool machine, and nicely done video! Probably the same in other places but here in Chiang Mai, the hippest coffee bars all have two and three group lever machines, and amazing coffee culture...

  • @JoelzombieThomas
    @JoelzombieThomas 7 років тому +2

    I love mine. Thanks for the video. I have another in restoration, and my current machine could use a rebuild as well. Excellent work!

  • @dpete8995
    @dpete8995 6 років тому

    Good demo... I’ve got a 16 cup pro model a few years newer than that one. I’ve really enjoyed this machine over the last 15 years or so and, your right... it’s pretty much bulletproof.

  • @danielgallo91
    @danielgallo91 4 роки тому +1

    I have a 1964 La Pavoni that I have been using and this video is awesome. Needed some more info.

  • @archerpiperii2690
    @archerpiperii2690 6 років тому +14

    That factory 3 hole steam wand tip is just about useless. The first mod I did was the same as you, replace the 3 hole tip with a cap nut. I used a drill press and a 1/32 drill bit to put a single hole in the cap nut. It works like a charm.

    • @AlanLinQD
      @AlanLinQD 5 років тому +1

      Can you let me know where you purchased this? I am pretty tired of the factory wand tip myself :(

  • @georgegaifyllias3024
    @georgegaifyllias3024 2 роки тому

    Hi love your video can you tell me the grinding of the coffee should be on the fine or the coarse end? Thanks

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  2 роки тому

      Hello! Thank you so much! Your coffee should definitely be on the finer end for the La Pavoni!

  • @Dreyno
    @Dreyno 4 роки тому +5

    This was made the year I was born. I was considering a Delonghi Dedica but damn If I don’t want one of these now.

  • @johnayres2303
    @johnayres2303 2 роки тому

    great informative video but why don’t you pre-flush before attaching the porta filter? It seems in other demos of La P they pre-flush.

  • @TJDawgs72
    @TJDawgs72 4 роки тому

    Man I wish I could afford one of these right now...amazing machines. And from what I heard...these things will last well past the time we’re all dead and gone. One of these days I may just splurge.

  • @АнастасияБежевая

    Great basic espresso machine for the price

  • @bflmpsvz870
    @bflmpsvz870 5 місяців тому

    Your La Pavoni is even more hiliarious and noisy than my La Pavoni Esperto. Congrats!

  • @MarcLickfett
    @MarcLickfett 4 роки тому

    Thank you for the great and thorough walk through!

  • @maxwellspeedwell2585
    @maxwellspeedwell2585 4 роки тому

    1977 is old? You should see what I drive!
    Tragic that my old vehicles are cheap to buy, cheap to own, easy to maintain yourself,
    and will still be running when the 2021 cars have turned to rust.
    Be proud to own a time-tested, quality machine.

  • @Zubenelshamali
    @Zubenelshamali 4 роки тому

    I have a new LP Europiccola; I find the shot warm and pretty small. Should I lever some hot water through the head before I attach the strainer? I have been allowing the machine to heat up at least 15 minutes to heat the housing to which the strainer is attached; the coffee shot is hot and full flavored.. NOTE the steam from nozzle for heating milk will burn you pretty good if you blow steam from it into a cloth while wiping the milk residue off. Thanks for tvideo.

  • @projectmaldives
    @projectmaldives 6 років тому +14

    I have a La Pavoni, all chrome. makes amazing shots. handmade in Italy

  • @MrMbland
    @MrMbland 7 років тому

    Excellent video ,this has really helped me get my head around theb art of extraction technique . What a cool machine , I want one .

  • @davidmcfarland3940
    @davidmcfarland3940 3 роки тому

    Great video
    Could you point me in the direction of a precision 49mm basket and bottomless portafilter? Same question for the dosing funnel (red) used?
    Much appreciate any assistance

  • @abueloraton
    @abueloraton 3 роки тому

    Great job at explaining a lot of important steps. What equipment do you have at home?

  • @gernhartreinholzen4330
    @gernhartreinholzen4330 4 роки тому

    Is there any force on the Lever? Got mine yesterday but im not into this so much. It looks like there is force to push the lever down. I dont get the point how to use the lever. Its too much water going by or nothing.

  • @markferri2614
    @markferri2614 3 роки тому

    Thanks for the video. Can you please tell me where I can find a 49mm dosing funnel? I have not been able to source one on any search. Thanks.

  • @willstewart5080
    @willstewart5080 4 роки тому +1

    I would LOVE an instructional video on getting good microfoam on a La Pavoni. I can't get any on mine to save my life...

    • @danieldycus
      @danieldycus 4 роки тому

      I wonder if it has to do with the tip he's using?

  • @HamJimBeng
    @HamJimBeng 4 роки тому +1

    how do we maintain the rubber seals / gaskets in good condition ?

    • @fastnbulbouss
      @fastnbulbouss 4 роки тому

      They need to be changed every few years, depending on usage. I make 5 to 6 cups a day.....and change the seals every 3 to 4 years.

  • @christianhastings7491
    @christianhastings7491 Рік тому

    Hi,
    Thanks for a great video. Were do buy a dosing funnel for my old europiccola (1991) like you have in the video?
    Thanks

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  Рік тому

      I'm not sure exactly where Steve got his red one, but I was able to find another one online that's similar: coffee-sensor.com/product/la-pavoni-stainless-steel-grind-dosing-funnel-49-and-51mm/

  • @jamesjackson7414
    @jamesjackson7414 2 роки тому

    I know this is an old video, but any idea what size basket Steve is using? I would struggle to get that much head room on a 15g dose without compressing the puck to an impenetrable point! I am also wondering what size hole was drilled in the blind nut for a steam tip, and what thread the nut was (although may vary between machines).

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  2 роки тому

      It is likely the double basket that’s included with the machine. Unfortunately I can’t answer the second part of your question.

  • @adambromley6972
    @adambromley6972 3 роки тому

    Where do you buy replacement parts?

  • @smangel3222
    @smangel3222 3 роки тому

    I also love my la Pavoni, but seem to be doing something wrong lately - the lever is very hard to pull down. Is this because there is too much pressure build up or too much water has been let into the group head? Thanks for any suggestions.

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  3 роки тому

      It sounds like you may need to adjust your grind. Coarsening your grind should take care of the problem or if you use slightly less coffee in the basket that should help as well! If you try those suggestions and still have problems please let us know and we can troubleshoot some more!

    • @smangel3222
      @smangel3222 3 роки тому

      @@primacoffeeequipment Thanks - in the meantime I started to use the larger basket instead of the small one, and also to bring the lever up more quickly. That seems to have solved it. I had read somewhere that one should bring the lever up very slowly but that seems to allow too much pressure to build up.

  • @matiasfha
    @matiasfha 5 років тому

    I'm currently looking for my first espresso machine. I have the flair pro in mind but this la Pavonni looks really amazing.. What do you think about a comparison between both?

  • @bmf863
    @bmf863 6 років тому

    Thank you for this one!

  • @Pepe45678
    @Pepe45678 6 років тому +1

    Beautiful!!!

  • @paulr.8365
    @paulr.8365 4 роки тому

    I own the very same machine (1975 Version 2.0). I have two questions if I may: 1) what is the advantage of having removed the spouts from the portafilter? 2) In Italy we use a smaller filter for one shot ... 9 gr max... Isn't itva little bit excessive 15 to 17 gr for a single?

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  4 роки тому +1

      Hey Paul, good question! Steve removed the spouts to create a bottomless portafilter, which, as he says, is the best kind of portafilter to use when diagnosing shot quality. Channeling is much easier to see when the basket is exposed. If you see any spitting or one side of the basket being favored by the coffee, you will know that there was a problem with puck prep. This will help you know what works and doesn't work when filling the basket, distributing, and tamping, and with trial and error you can reduce or even completely correct the issue. As for single versus double shot dosing: specialty coffee has gravitated toward bottomless portafilters, and thus not splitting shots with spouts, so shots are thought about less in terms of single versus double and more in terms of basket capacity. In traditional terms, what Steve is talking about would probably be considered a double.

    • @paulr.8365
      @paulr.8365 4 роки тому

      @@primacoffeeequipmentmany thanks!

  • @peterpawlak8418
    @peterpawlak8418 4 роки тому

    How long does it take from a cold start until you're ready to pull your shot?

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  4 роки тому

      The Europiccola should be up to temperature and ready to use in less than 10 minutes.

    • @peterpawlak8418
      @peterpawlak8418 4 роки тому

      @@primacoffeeequipment That seems excessive for a small boiler.

  • @jakobw135
    @jakobw135 2 роки тому

    How does this compare to the Cafelat Robot with the Bellman steamer?

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  2 роки тому +1

      Well, it's electric and much faster! The Robot also brews at lower temperatures and performs better for high yield espressos with lower body. The La Pavoni is better for traditional 1:2 ratio shots.

  • @miskatonic6210
    @miskatonic6210 8 років тому +55

    You should mention it can need a SERIOUS efford to get your first proper shot. Cheap, older coffee won't work at all and if the grind size /amount of coffee is just a LITTLE bit wrong the water will either run through easily or you won't be able to press the lever at all. And after 2 or 3 wrong attempts the machine will most certainly be too hot, so you have to cool it down so you don't burn your coffee with too hot water.
    And after maybe 4 attempts you will run out of water and will have to cool down the whole machine (which will take a lot of time), because you can't refill water without cooling it down and releasing pressure.
    So changing your type of coffee beans a lot is nothing you want to do with this steam dragon.

    • @albertogonzalez01
      @albertogonzalez01 7 років тому

      Sirion so this machine in your experience is not for the beginner level in barista world?

    • @pandaboyderii6167
      @pandaboyderii6167 6 років тому

      alberto gonzalez O hell no!
      Litte italian diva 😂

    • @vojtechpilar5809
      @vojtechpilar5809 6 років тому +13

      This espresso machine really isn't for a barista beginner. On the other hand, it isn't as bad as Sirion describes. If you know what you're doing, you already know you can't use crappy stale beans or that grinding matters. Also, waiting for pressure to release in order to refill the machine takes about 30 seconds if you simply open the steam wand valve.

    • @YasuoPlayer123
      @YasuoPlayer123 6 років тому

      Thank you for this hint - i was kinda confused at first - heated up the machine until it really nearly exploded. Next try was much smoother ! =) I waited only 4 mintutes to pre-heat the machine and then poured a much better (still bitter) espresso =)

    • @imalamboman12
      @imalamboman12 6 років тому +6

      You can't burn your coffee with water, it's already been roasted at much higher temperatures.

  • @mathiasdich
    @mathiasdich 8 років тому +3

    Nice video.
    Think i need a single tip for my La Pavoni - your milk looks real good.
    Next time, try to pull a shot of wather before you make your espresso.
    I think you will get a better espresso, because the temperature of your espresso will be higher.

    • @anthonyporto2974
      @anthonyporto2974 7 років тому

      Partinico I think

    • @anthonyporto2974
      @anthonyporto2974 7 років тому

      Partinico I think the best thing to do

    • @johne7100
      @johne7100 7 років тому

      Get yourself a 6mm steel dome nut and drill a 1mm hole in it. Works just as well as the ones you can buy, and makes the machine a little bit more yours.

    • @bohdaaanek
      @bohdaaanek 6 років тому

      you know it's more in hands than in equipment right?

  • @POVShotgun
    @POVShotgun 3 роки тому

    The beginning wtf. I’ve been playing some glitchy games and I freaked out lolll

  • @TheRaf55555
    @TheRaf55555 4 роки тому

    What is the size of the tamper for La Pavoni Professional ?

  • @Kr0pD
    @Kr0pD 8 років тому +1

    Great one sir, really interesting

  • @stinebiz
    @stinebiz 6 років тому +1

    Great video. Where do you get your parts, or where do you have it repaired? You mentioned it was rewired.

  • @thecardcollector6094
    @thecardcollector6094 4 роки тому

    My dad just got a similar machine off ebay, but we cant seem to get it right. How long do you let the water heat up before?

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  4 роки тому

      From our experience, there isn't a standard time for letting the water heat up. A few variables to consider: You want the water to be up to pressure but you also need for the rest of the machine to be fully heated as well (all of the metal and everything that runs through, the grouphead, etc.) We have found that each machine can be slightly different and there are variables such as the starting water temp that will contribute. Machines like this can involve a pretty steep learning curve, but just keep in mind that everything needs to be heated up before you get started and then just make adjustments as you go until you start getting the results you are looking for.

    • @thecardcollector6094
      @thecardcollector6094 4 роки тому

      @@primacoffeeequipment which setting do you use to heat up the machine, 1 or 2?

  • @timefornotuel
    @timefornotuel 6 років тому +1

    it's available in Bangladesh?

  • @hugofcuk9051
    @hugofcuk9051 6 років тому +1

    you know your stuff, very informative, thank you

  • @carmadon5
    @carmadon5 6 років тому +1

    Excellent video Steve, thank you so much for sharing! One question: could you please let me know, how much plastic does the hot water or coffee come in contact with, where are the rubber parts? Is this maschine almost completely made of metal only? Otherwise, could you recommend an espresso machine without or very little plasic? Thank you in advance!

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  6 років тому +1

      In this version of the Europiccola, there is no plastic whatsoever in the brew path. In newer models there is an internal plastic sleeve lining the infusion chamber, and some versions of the brew piston are also plastic. Versions made prior to the 1990s should be all-metal, but that does depend on whether parts were replaced by the owners over the years so it varies from machine to machine.
      There are rubber seals at the boiler cap, the sightglass, the steam valve, the group junction with the boiler, in the group at the piston, the top seal, and the main group gasket where the portfilter locks in. Those could all be replaced with aftermarket seals if you wish.

  • @martasuvaco3558
    @martasuvaco3558 3 роки тому

    I have a La Pavoni via expresso machine old one never used.. what is iworh

  • @shantghazar8640
    @shantghazar8640 5 років тому

    good video explains a lot. one question tho, is the base diameter of your tamper 49 or 51? and is your machine made before or after 2000s?

    • @fastnbulbouss
      @fastnbulbouss 4 роки тому

      The machine he's using is an older model....I have one exactly the same. The head on the new models is a little different.

  • @FinancialAdvice-d9h
    @FinancialAdvice-d9h 5 років тому

    Dude that's awesome

  • @socksalot
    @socksalot 8 років тому

    Thanks Steve for the great video. I now know what the white button does. I have the same machine. MY question is my grinder, it's a Krups GVX212 burr grinder. I am grinding at the finest setting, doesn't look that fine to me. I'm thinking this might be the first variable to address.

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  8 років тому +1

      You're probably on the right track. A direct lever machine like this can be very dependent on a good quality grind, so if that's the weaker link in your equipment you may need an upgrade.

  • @Sooperhans3636
    @Sooperhans3636 8 років тому +5

    Great vid. Definitely on the hunt for one.

  • @aebrown9
    @aebrown9 8 років тому

    I have a 1972 La Pavoni Europiccola. Very very similar to yours. I added a pressure gauge and a single hole tip on the steam wand. I love it. I really enjoyed seeing your overall method. It gives me ideas. Are you hooked up to a 110 or 220v power source? Mine is hooked up to a 110v Standard US, but It takes a little longer to heat up on high.

    • @226557547
      @226557547 8 років тому

      Aaron Brown what process did you follow to add the gauge?? I have a 72 as well.

    • @aebrown9
      @aebrown9 8 років тому

      I got it here on e-bay. www.ebay.com/itm/PRESSURE-GAGE-ADAPTER-SET-FOR-LA-PAVONI-EUROPICCOLA-BRASS-STAINLESS/201656637535 . You mention what year and color your machine is and the guy send you the correct one. Just took plumbers tape and a crescent wrench.

    • @226557547
      @226557547 8 років тому

      Does the pressure gauge allow you to adjust pressure, or just monitor it?

    • @aebrown9
      @aebrown9 8 років тому

      Just monitor it.

  • @HerfingPug
    @HerfingPug 7 років тому

    Well done Steve. Much appreciated.

  • @richardharris5336
    @richardharris5336 8 років тому

    Excellent video. I really like that you've been able to customize and service various parts to the machine as time has gone by. I was wondering how easy it is to diagnose when something needs replacing, and is it easy to do yourself? You mentioned the electrics for example... Definitely going to get one of these!

    • @miskatonic6210
      @miskatonic6210 8 років тому +1

      Richard Harris Uhm...there's not much that has to be replaced. As said: The rubber seals. If they give up the machine just won't keep steam or water and it will start to drip or steam where it's not supposed to do so.
      And in case the heating element stops working, the machine just won't work ;-)
      There's good manuals how to disassemble these machines yourself. You just need common tools and it's less complicated than...let's say fixing a bike. Quite few and very solid parts. Not a lot you could break.
      And there IS close to no electrics ;-) Just the heating element in the base of the machine. And the heating Element is the only expensive part that might break. So you have to pay attention not to overheat the (older) machines.

    • @richardharris5336
      @richardharris5336 8 років тому

      Wonderful, thanks! Currently searching the used market for one...

  • @updatemysettings5095
    @updatemysettings5095 5 років тому +1

    As someone who uses a bialetti every morning, this seems like driving a steam train to work when a car would do. But, I am not in charge and carry on as you wish.

    • @harijaja
      @harijaja 5 років тому

      Just that Bialetti isn't a car. It's a bicycle, and a poor one at it's job XD

  • @cbujik
    @cbujik 7 років тому +1

    Just got one europicola myself a week ago . Achieving consistency in the shots is not easy. Sometimes i get good crema and many times i dont get at all. Still trying to figure out why but thanks for the tip.

    • @mayhem052
      @mayhem052 7 років тому +2

      Amir Khan168 getting your grind size, dose size, and a good evenly distributed tamp dialed in is essential. Once you get that, a very important and often overlooked aspect is just getting things up to temperature. With my professional model I usually fill the tank up generously - to about the top of the fill indicator tube, then I run water through the group head until the indicator tube is about 3/4 full. Make sure to also purge the steam head to get the machine to full pressure. Often I found that with this machine my second shot always came out better than the first - preheating the group head thoroughly before pulling a shot solved this problem, and led to much more consistent shots. Good luck! These are fantastic little machines for home use, and you can make some awesome espresso, but there is a decent learning curve - and even then you’ll probably pull some mediocre shots.

    • @nukenet1
      @nukenet1 6 років тому

      Exactly the same experience on my Gaggia Factory 106 (same parts as LP Professional) which I have used daily for nearly 20 years now. Consistency in the grind and tamp is essential and as MB said, getting that group head up to temp. After a little while, it all becomes instinctive and you'll be pulling shots better than the best coffee shops, which kind of ruins going out for a good cup of coffee because it's better at home. Maintenance is easy and just needs about 30 minutes to pull apart, clean, replace seals and put it all back together once every 2 years or so in my experience. If you fill the machine with filtered water it stays free of scale and buildup. Awesome machines that take some time and love to get the best out of them, but honestly it makes waking up in the morning something to look forward to. I've got my machine on a sonoff timer so that it's preheated and ready when i get up in the morning.

  • @darkides
    @darkides 8 років тому +2

    Fantastic video. I can't seem to get my flavor profile right, it's either to sour or bitter... I've just had so much coffee that isn't right I don't even remember what proper espresso tastes like! Haha but do you have any tips on proper extraction? Making sure it's not under/over extracted? Is 25-30 seconds of a pull once the lever is raised? Or once I start pushing down on the lever.

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  8 років тому +16

      It certainly can be a little tough to learn how to pull consistent shots with a lever like this, especially as there's no temperature control.
      Generally speaking, a sour shots needs more extraction - either more water or less coffee, a finer grind, or more contact time. The opposite applies for bitter shots - they would need less extraction, less water or more coffee, a coarser grind or less contact time. We always time shots from when water first hits the coffee, and in the case of this machine it's right around the time the lever is pulled fully up.
      Shot time isn't as critical as some other factors, and since it's a direct lever with some amount of pressure and flow rate control, very long shots can be made that are well extracted. However, as you're just starting out it can be helpful to stick to a standard routine and overall shot time. Try raising the lever for 10-15 seconds and leaving it there, then slowly pressing down over the course of another 25-30 seconds. This will give you a nice soft preinfusion to fully wet the puck, followed by a steady shot extraction. Taste the shots and make adjustments as needed uses the guidelines above.

  • @raymarkham6496
    @raymarkham6496 5 років тому

    good video, what size hole did you drill in th acorn nut?

  • @davidmcfarland3940
    @davidmcfarland3940 3 роки тому

    Could anyone point me in the direction of precision 49mm baskets and bottom less portafilters? Same for the red 49mm dosing funnel used in the video?
    Thanking you in advance

  • @andrewpleger488
    @andrewpleger488 5 років тому

    Incredibly useful video! Where did you get the portafilter basket?

  • @PeterHartman1
    @PeterHartman1 6 років тому

    This is something that I have been meaning to look into for several year. I love things that stand the test of time. Can you recommend some resources for learning more about these old machines? Is possible to add additional pressure gauges to these machines? I like consistency.

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  6 років тому +3

      La Pavoni's Professional model has a pressure manometer mounted above the sightglass, and the Europiccola can be fitted with an aftermarket gauge for the same functionality. Perhaps more interesting is a brew piston pressure gauge, currently only available from Naked Espresso. That gauge provides a live reading of the pressure in the brew chamber, but it requires a number of parts to be replaced, which adds to the expense. Naked also offers a Bluetooth-connected pressure gauge so you can get a live brew pressure graph on a smartphone. Many enthusiasts also add adhesive thermometer strips to the group head for an approximation of brewing temperature. There are also a good amount of aftermarket parts like baskets, portafilters, and gaskets for these machines.

  • @addante10
    @addante10 6 років тому

    How much would this unit cost roughly? and where can I get one ?

    • @primacoffeeequipment
      @primacoffeeequipment  6 років тому

      Steve bought his used for under $300. Newer models can be found for $750-1000 US depending on the model and style.

  • @anglerjj3089
    @anglerjj3089 4 роки тому +5

    well, very interesting, but in my almost eight years, I lived in Italy (Torino) I never saw anybody with a balance at the coffee machine 😂

    • @justinzaff
      @justinzaff 3 роки тому

      Balance ? I'm Australian . It's a joke , is it coffee drinkers are crazy ,😀?

  • @mortonjim
    @mortonjim 7 років тому

    Hi Steve, first of all, thank you for such a detail video. I have just bought my epc-8 about a week ago and I have a bunch of questions about pulling a good shot. Hope you can give me some tips and clear some questions for me.
    1. How can you pull the shot with such a nice crema? Mine just come out thin and mostly just black coffee even I set my grinder to the finest.
    2. With the finest grind I have and I tamp it really hard, I then put the coffee in, lift up the lever, and wait for 6 secs. In most of the videos from other people, I see water starts to come out only when they lower the lever. But in my case, water starts to drip out by itself after 7 secs. Is there something wrong with my machine? I bought it new...
    3. How much water am I suppose to put in the tank to get the pressure/water ratio correct? My model does not have the pressure gauge.
    Thank you very much.

    • @Agn0sticus
      @Agn0sticus 7 років тому +2

      If you have set your grinder to the finest and you are still able to physically pull a shot, get a better grinder (cone grinder)! It's way too coarse! If you'd set a good grinder to anywhere near the finest, you wouldn't be able to move the leaver at all.
      This should resolve your problem. Also the steam pressure at a certain temperature is independent of the fill level of a vessel.

  • @purushaonezeroeight165
    @purushaonezeroeight165 6 років тому

    Great. Thank you very much

  • @nelliebpink13
    @nelliebpink13 4 роки тому

    I’m literally watching this man build coffee from the ground and I don’t even drink coffee

    • @eljefehuevon54
      @eljefehuevon54 4 роки тому

      nelliebpink13 Literally? How else would you watch it? You are literally an idiot.

    • @DESCENDINGDR
      @DESCENDINGDR 4 роки тому

      I understood you, maybe you might want to try an milk-based espresso drink. He is clear in describing what's going on...

    • @nelliebpink13
      @nelliebpink13 4 роки тому

      Jeff Carmack don’t think a online troll account can save you bitch

  • @martinbrimble5878
    @martinbrimble5878 5 років тому

    I’ve only managed to pull one spectator shot in the last week, I don’t recall exactly what I did but it was the best coffee I’ve ever had..
    Now.. every time I try is tastes ranging from acceptable to awful
    Do you have any advise as I’m getting a little despondent, don’t know what’s going wrong.
    I’m juking the same coffee grounds, same water and amounts. Admittedly I haven’t weighed, but visually it’s the same level in the filter.