I’m releasing this one a little bit ahead of schedule, because of the upcoming Easter weekend. The next and final video on this machine will be a comparison to the Breville Bambino plus. Expect that towards the end of next week. Wishing you all a great Easter holiday, to those who celebrate.😊
Would be good to know how this compares with a La Specialista regarding the brewing capabilities, setting aside the fact that this does not have a grinder as the La Specialista.
@@H3ctorV3ctor looking to this Tom's review, this machine is a bit better than LaSpecialista. I had Maestro (second edition of LaSpecialista) during two months and I really hate it. The grinder is awful and useless, the pre-infusion is awful, it is really tricky to play in 'advanced mode' instead of its stupid automatic functions etc etc. And it was really big! Here I can see more freedom with very similar tech specs. Off course both machines are just entry level home espresso-like coffee machines. But this small lady looks really impressive, so I would recommend to get this one and good grinder instead of LaSpecialista. Let's see next Tom's review with the comparison to the Breville Bambino and may be his suggestions about LaSpecialista too.
As someone who just started my journey to being home barista, I would say jumping into advanced mode right away was a high learning curve but you learn so much. It took me 5 failed shots to finally understand about dialing in concept.
I hope you can get your hands on the non-Plus version of the Maestro (EC900). According to the data sheets it comes with unpressurized baskets and has a traditional (non-automatic) steam wand. It should also be somewhat cheaper than the Plus. For anyone intending to use the machine in what you call "advanced mode", that seems like the better option.
Hi. From what I’ve seen the ec900 is basically the same as former versions of the dedica, only changing the steam wand. But this machine is a brand new design
@@H3ctorV3ctorYou appear to be confusing the Dedica Arte with the new Dedica Maestro (without the plus). The latter is indeed new and a sibling of the Maestro Plus reviewed in the video. The Arte is, as you describe, basically the original Dedica with a new steam wand.
As someone who started my journey to being home barista, I would say jumping into advanced mode right away was a high learning curve but you learn so much.
Yay, Tom! You reviewed our model coffee machine. We paid extra for this as the auto feature, for a teen in our house, is wonderful. We made the water dispenser more in each coffee extraction for individual setting, so more coffee and water in the mug, so personalised. The size fits perfectly on my small bench space and loved how you mentioned the economic hand grip under the machine for machine carrying or shifting. Your video and explanation on review were delightful and enjoyable to watch! As always. Thank you for your coffee channel. It made our decision to purchase our 1st coffee machine enjoyable and knowledgeable to learn. We found out that you can buy a delonghi cleaning kit for 5 usess, in bulk, a lot cheaper than individual packs. Bonus!🎉
Ha, Tom, I had to pause this and go make my morning latte on my Bambino Plus before resuming watching the rest of your video. . Not trading my machine ( and coffee making experience) in for this new one! I noticed that he Bambino Plus also has a slanted water tank and an ergonomic bottom for easy lifting. Hmm, it's like the Delonghi marketing team woke up and thought that they could just 'lift 'some of Sage/Breville's innovations and repackage them - the Maestro Plus's steam wand is a bit different though. Looking forward to your head to head comparison between the two machines. Please mention their dimensions including the weight. Love your videos, Tom!
Great review Tom! I’m seeing this model for $393 on Amazon here in the USA. Seems to be a great price for what you get. I previous bought two open box models of the Specialista Artist and found an issue with the coffee selector switch on the first one which I was able to make espressos but nothing else. The second one the OK button was the only thing that worked and was unusable all together which left me a bit nervous about even a brand new Specialista. This model is giving me high hopes with the reviews I’ve been seeing so far.
We bought this for our farmstay and I think it will be excellent - so much tastier than a pod machine (hate them), though a little more complicated. Agree that not being able to run plain water is a significant annoyance.
Hi, Thank you for this new video. I'm looking for an espresso machine to buy, but I am reaaaaaly a beginner (I never made myself a coffee, I just used automatic machines until now). What I am looking for is a machine that can be fully automatic (so that I can have a decent coffee when I don't have much time to prepare it myself), but that can also be used in advanced mode, just as you say. So what you show here reinforce my choice. Thanks!
My experience with earlier models of the Dedica machine has led me to think that their main drawback is inadequately low and inconsistent (between shots) water temperature, often producing sour shots. From your description of this new model, its performance seems to be better and more consistent with respect to water temperature. Would you agree with this conclusion?
Yes, I'd say so. I've done several temp measurements, but just showed the 96° curve here. The Dedica seems to have 40° at the brew group before extracting, shoots up quickly to the target temp, then bows down a little during the middle, and goes back up towards the end. In the video comparing the Dedica to the BP, I compared measurements, and they do behave quite differently. I find the Dedica more favorable. Thanks for watching!
There is a small "hack" which a German Barista Team came up with to have consistent Espresso shots with the Dedica. When starting the machine, you're just pouring a single shot to pre-heat the Basket. And after that just start between each new Espresso shot, the Pre-Infusion 2x times. Meaning you're pressing the button to give out an Espresso (Doesn't matter if single or double) and immediately after the Pre-Infusion stops, you cancel the process and do that another time. After that, you put in the Basket and get your normal Espresso Shot. Hopefully that helps.
In my region, dedica maestro plus costs about $200, sage bambino $300, sage bambino plus about $500. There is also a gaggia espresso evolution option for $250. I think for me delonghi would be much preferable.
Yes, I think they made it that way, as it stems originally from the La Specialista line. They come with grinders that don't grind very fine, so the taper was required. I like using an IMS basket and a finer grind. Thanks for checking in! Tom
This still looks like the Breville Bambino Plus is a better situation especially since it comes with some really good baskets included, both pressurized and non-pressurized, and a portafilter that's easier to get accessories for since there's more 54 mm stuff on the market now... and it gives hot water out of the steam wand
I'm actually looking into this as my first own espresso machine. I like having the fast startup times and the comfort of somewhat automated steps. Also, I really appreciate the automatized milk wand. However, I'm actually going to pair it with the Eureca Mignon Specialista, as I will surely eventually upgrade to a better espresso machine down the line and also keep hearing and reading that a proper grinder makes the biggest difference (together with a somewhat consistent brewing temp, which the maestro does offer due to its PID) Thank you once again for your amazing review!
Could you please make a video were you compare the temperature curves during extraction in the different settings between the ec950 and the Bambi o? I think this will be quite important for people who want to decide between the two. Thank you!
Thanks Tom, great as usual although there was no dropping your scale or camera. :) Too bad about no hot water access perhaps I will know better after your Bambino comparison which to buy.
I still am not convinced that it is better than my ECP 3420. If Delonghi would only update that model with a better steam wand and a PID we would have the perfect manual machine. Thank you for the Review,
Hey Tom, big fan over here, managed to get beautiful and tasty coffee from my Dedica because of your videos. I feel a general liking towards the Delonghi products and am thinking about upgrading. In my country the Dedica Maestro Plus and La Specialista Arte are very close in pricing, not sure if it worth a video but in you subjective opinion which one do you think is better value? Thank you and keep up the good content!
I think how they brew is quite similar, although I don't know if the La Specialista has a thermoprobe for a PID control. But the grinder kinda sucks on the La Specialista. Cheers!
Hi Tom. I was lucky to get my hands on the Maestro (not plus) version. Hope you can get your hands on this as this comes only with non pressurised basket. Relying on your expertise to get the most out of that machine. Thanks and keep up the good work.
hi. I just got a bottomless portafilter for ec680 dedica for my maestro on the assumption that they should be the same but it appears not to fit the maestro. Curious what is the size of those ears and would the dedica portafilter fit maestro? Thanks
Love your videos, Tom and thank you! I'm new to this and I'm overwhelmed. Was going to go with a Gaggia Classic Evo Pro until I read all about boiler gate so I considered the Bambino Plus. But I like all the improvements on this one. You did a very thorough analysis. And it comes w/ pressurized and non-pressurized here in the U.S. Of course I would upgrade to the IMS and bottomless portafilter but I've read reviews that stated this model does not accept other 51mm baskets. But you used them so I'm not sure where that discrepancy came from.
I just found this after a pointless chat with delonghi rep . I had the ec685 but it stopped producing steam after a few weeks so today i got a refund . Looking to replace with a mchine that takes 51mm accessories . I want to control the texturing and heating , i like 60deg not to much foam but good quality. (The first thing I did with old machine was replace the wand with a metal one ) I have 3-4 mugs a day and after a reliable machine but not overly expensive. I switched to dedica after owning a gaggia synchronisy , any recommendations? 11:36 e@TomsCoffeeCorner
Returning my second unit. I love the machine and love the coffee. Unfortunately my first unit began to leak onto my counters. I returned it to Crate and Barrel - A shoutout to their exceptional customer service. My second unit worked well for less than a month, then began to leak water onto the counter. This may or may not b related to the steamer, which is wonderful. I reached out to Delonghi, but received no response. I was about to try to get it fixed, although there is no repait location in San Francisco, , but after twenty days it showed a need to decalcify. The first model did this as well. In my region, however, there are no minerals in the water I will miss the coffee and the automatic frother, which at times required an additional manual frothing. I am sad to say that I will not be trying a third unit. This is a pity. I will miss it.
Hi there. Are you sure the water tank was seated correctly (all the way inserted)? It will be highly unusual for two of these to leak. I’ve never actually experienced that problem with any of my Dedicas, but maybe they had a bad batch. Sorry to hear it!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Yes. It appears that the model arrived minus a part, however the fact that it wants decalcification less than three weeks from arrival is a concern. I am returning it, but will not, as planned, replace it with a Brevillle. With your comment, I think I will try one last time. It is a perfect little machine. I have a Gaggia Evo Pro elsewhere, which is more challenging and less satisfactory. I will follow up. I agree that it is odd. I had a Dedica for years before this one, and until a hose connection failed, it was problem free. The coffee was not the same, but I was quite happy. Thank you very much for your response.
@@jolynnelockley9013 Well, the descaling reminder is simply a shot counter. Therefore, the more espresso you drink, the faster the reminder will activate.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner At one to two shots a day for about twenty days--- It will not work until it is descaled, or it has simply stopped working all together. In the meantime a friend suggested the Stone "Mine" Heat Exchanger Espresso Machine or the Lelit Anna - Single Boiler Espresso Machine, each of which may be a bit above my paygrade. (Intelligence level, not price range, although...) Having looked at videos regarding the Gaggia, which I have in another location, it seems you training like a commercial pilot to run them. Now I know why I haven´t been satisfied with the Gaggia. I appreciate your taking the time to respond very much.
The pressurized ones are smaller, tapered, and force the liquid through just 1 hole, therefore creating the pressure on their own. The non-pressurized have lots of holes, and are less tapered. The coffee fineness is responsible itself for the pressure.
@@cyteen Non-pressurised baskets offer more control in terms of getting the coffee to exactly how you want it, but it does need more skill and experimenting. Pressurised baskets offer the option of using store bought pre-ground coffee, at the expense of a more mediocre shot. Objectively, the non-pressurised is better, but if you want a simpler straightforward experience to getting to espresso, then pressurised is better. So it really depends on how deep into the espresso rabbit hole you are willing to explore.
I am currently using an old Dedica and was thinking about upgrading to the Arte model. Do you think it is worth paying extra for the Maestro Plus? Is it worth the extra just to get a PID?
@@TomsCoffeeCorner thanks for the Information. Did you do any temperatur test on the Maestro plus? I don‘t think that the temperatur is so important then how constant it is. Do you know of any temperatur curve or something like that?
Happy Easter Tom! Will you maybe do a review of the new Graef CM1116 flatburr coffee grinder, I believe it's around €500 and it looks similar to Eureka products?
Happy Easter! Hmm, you're right that it does look exactly like a Eureka, with a slightly different housing. I think Eureka is licensing out their product. They let Solis make one with the Solis name on it, too.
Hey Tom, as I always say great video. And thanks to you I now have one. Planning ahead, do you think you could do one of your descaling videos for this model? I used your original dedica descale video so much. And the delonghi videos are not as easy to watch as yours. If you do then a massive thank you. 🙏
I'd call myself an intermediate enthusiast. Unfortunately my introductory machine has died after only a year and I need to find a replacement. It seemed to be very closely engineered after the original Dedica and I much enjoyed the design which makes me attracted to the Delonghi over a Breville. Unfortunately, I'm stuck between the Dedica Arte and the Maestro. A couple things holding me up - 1. this machine is over twice the price of the Arte, and while the automatic features are appealing, I don't feel they're vital for me. I am curious, however, how much the tempurature control will improve the quality of my brew. 2. I purchased a portafilter upgrade for my last machine in 51mm. That wasn't too long ago and it will be frustrating to need to purchase another bottomless filter on the side if i upgrade to a 54mm grouphead Curious on thoughts of whether the upgrade is worth all this
Hi Sami, well just so you know, the DMP also has a different portafilter than the Arte. But there's also no guarantee that the PF you bought for your previous machine will work in a Dedica. Which market are you in? USA?
First I have to praise the excellent video. I appreciate the effort you put into recording and explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each device. I have two questions so if you can help me. I only drink espresso without milk, which means the pure taste of coffee without sugar and other additives. In your opinion, what is the best espresso machine with a portafilter and what is the best superautomatic machine if I am looking for the best espresso taste, the rest is not important to me. Thank you very much for your help!
Thanks for your kind feedback. For a SA, so far the best I've tried is the Dinamica Plus. I think the Jura E8 would also do a good job. For a portafilter machine, there are just so many options. I'd suggest getting one with a heated brew group, and ideally with an OPV and temp that you can regulate for different beans. Have fun looking!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thanks for the suggestion for Dinamica. I don't really understand these technical things you mentioned. Do you have one or two device suggestions that have all of these things?
Greetings, I am torn between the Dedica and a manual press like the Cafelat Robot - For your personal taste and workflow which one do you prefer/recommend. Would you say that the taste of a manual level is better than a Dedica and worth the extra elbow grease or is life just easier with a semi-auto machine?
I’d honestly never use the robot as a daily driver. The workflow will be cumbersome for me, and you have to consider preheating any device that doesn’t come with a heater installed. That being said, I have heard that the robot can make excellent shots with the right prep, and is better build quality than the Dedica. My choice would be the EC 900.
Hi Tom thanks for all your helpful videos. Just got my Dedica EC950M after days of using I can’t pull a good shot. Bitter and dry sensation to the tongue. Help. Thanks Tom and have a nice Easter
Hi Donald, which beans, grinder, dose, and baskets are you using? Please also check here for reference. Beans make a big big difference: tomscoffeecorner.com/what-are-the-best-beans-for-espresso/
Many thanks for another excellent video. Temperature wise, do you think this is more stable than GCD at least in advanced mode, but maybe the GCD better in basic mode? Shot wise, does this taste better than the GCD or bambino plus?
Do you mean the Gaggia Espresso Deluxe? I think their systems are quite similar, in fact the thermoblocks with temp probes look suspicously similar. But, the GED has an awful shower screen, and I don't really like the build quality as much as the Dedica. Cheers!
Hi Tom, i appreciate your videos a lot. Do you have any opinions, or experienced thoughts on laekerrt machines? They seem good? But there are no in-depth reviews out there.
Hmm, to me it looks like another Chinese no name, like Gevi, Silvercrest, etc. Cheers! Ps - I don't concentrate on machines like this because these companies can be here today, and gone tomorrow.
Hi I'm new at this and thinking of getting a coffee machine but I would like a small one as I do not have a big space in my kitchen. Any suggestion? Btw, what is a crema?
hey Tom, I recently got an EC950M and looking for upgrades, I remember you mentioned it has the same group head as the Specialista, are you sure the basket filters and portafilters for the Specialista would fit perfectly?
First of all thank you so much for all the information you sher with us. I would likw to know what is the maximum pressure Dedic 950 vs 685 because on both tehcnical specification it says 15 bar. is this the actual pressure or is the maximum pressure for wich the machine was tested for.
They are to switch between espresso and steam mode, and purge the water circuit, or steam wand. I show it here: ua-cam.com/video/4_zP_rnLuDU/v-deo.html
Hi! I bought a Krups Intuition and was fooling around with the nozzle and disconnected it whilst the machine was making Cappuccino and thus (I think) the machine ''ran dry'' so the system did not get any milk input, is it bad for the system? Should I return it because I never had this happen or is it totally fine, a lot of steam came out and that's it, the issue I guess is that I can't compare the milk foam to ''what it i supposed to be'' since it was the second cup!
I am thinking of buying the Delonghi EC885 model, but the temperature setting in EC900 model confused me, I like the coffee hotter. Does the EC900 or EC950 model have more hot water features than the EC885? I would be happy if you help.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thanks for the answer. I couldn't find the EC900 or EC950 model in the european region (on the internet, amazon etc.) It seems like there is no other option. EC885 or wait for EC900 model.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner They are the printed heaters that are in the shape of a coil. Most new coffee machines seem to be using these particular heaters made by "Ferro Techniek ". I have a few projects that I want to use these in, and am looking for the easiest way to get one. They are basically "instant heat" zero boiler design heat sources
Does the auto purge help lower the boiler temp in order to pull another shot right away? I usually have to manually purge quite a long time with my Arte
Yes sir! This was something confusing for a lot of new users - they often turned the machines off, then back on, to pull a shot after steaming. Now it cools itself down automatically.
Tom can you verify that the Ears on the portafilter are smaller on this model than other Delonghi espresso machines, i bought a bottomless portafilter for this unit and the ears were bigger than the filter that came with this unit and wouldnt fit , do you know of a wood handled bottomless 51mm that will work with this machine? Appreciate it thank you
sounds like you cannot get hot water to use for tea out of this machine? I like the compact size and everything else but would like to be able to get hot water as I have a small apartment. Am I understanding correctly and if so what machine would you recommend?
always appreciate the reviews for the new products. Well, this machine looks really nice. I'm gonna stick with my Dedica Arte for right now since it's only two years old I don't feel I need to upgrade it all. That said, I always enjoy videos, so thank you very much.
Hmm, to me it looks like another Chinese no name, like Gevi, Silvercrest, etc. Cheers! Ps - I don't concentrate on machines like this because these companies can be here today, and gone tomorrow.
Aw, it's not made of ferromagnetic stainless steel? That's kind of a bummer. Can't stick your magnetic coffee gear onto it. This is the first time I've seen you have trouble pouring latte art. You did even better with stock Panarello steam wands.
Yes that's right, the SS of the housing is not magnetic. As for the latte art, it's not easy when auto-frothing, as the consistency is not ideal. I have however gotten decent latte art in manual mode off camera, but I used 1.8% here, and that frothed up too much. But also, I think the thermoprobe gets in the way of the swirl a bit. Finally, I am sometimes inconsistent at latte art, so could be some user error mixed in.
I would call this new DMP as missed opportunity for DeLonghi. Ugly steaming wand aka horse leg and several three-way solenoids none of them used to release pressure from head are from my point of view unforgettable construction and design flaws.
![[Обзор ч.1] DeLonghi EC950.M. Обновлённая Dedica Maestro Plus и сравнение с EC885. Что изменилось?](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/5HXG_jE1oZ4/mqdefault.jpg)
I’m releasing this one a little bit ahead of schedule, because of the upcoming Easter weekend. The next and final video on this machine will be a comparison to the Breville Bambino plus. Expect that towards the end of next week. Wishing you all a great Easter holiday, to those who celebrate.😊
Have a good Easter holiday and thanks for all your efforts
Looking forward to that comparison. Happy Easter!
Have a nice weekend Tom! Nice review!
Would be good to know how this compares with a La Specialista regarding the brewing capabilities, setting aside the fact that this does not have a grinder as the La Specialista.
@@H3ctorV3ctor looking to this Tom's review, this machine is a bit better than LaSpecialista. I had Maestro (second edition of LaSpecialista) during two months and I really hate it. The grinder is awful and useless, the pre-infusion is awful, it is really tricky to play in 'advanced mode' instead of its stupid automatic functions etc etc. And it was really big! Here I can see more freedom with very similar tech specs. Off course both machines are just entry level home espresso-like coffee machines. But this small lady looks really impressive, so I would recommend to get this one and good grinder instead of LaSpecialista. Let's see next Tom's review with the comparison to the Breville Bambino and may be his suggestions about LaSpecialista too.
As someone who just started my journey to being home barista, I would say jumping into advanced mode right away was a high learning curve but you learn so much. It took me 5 failed shots to finally understand about dialing in concept.
I hope you can get your hands on the non-Plus version of the Maestro (EC900). According to the data sheets it comes with unpressurized baskets and has a traditional (non-automatic) steam wand. It should also be somewhat cheaper than the Plus. For anyone intending to use the machine in what you call "advanced mode", that seems like the better option.
Hi. From what I’ve seen the ec900 is basically the same as former versions of the dedica, only changing the steam wand. But this machine is a brand new design
@@H3ctorV3ctorYou appear to be confusing the Dedica Arte with the new Dedica Maestro (without the plus). The latter is indeed new and a sibling of the Maestro Plus reviewed in the video. The Arte is, as you describe, basically the original Dedica with a new steam wand.
As someone who started my journey to being home barista, I would say jumping into advanced mode right away was a high learning curve but you learn so much.
Thank you for this video. I am getting this machine for my birthday in a couple of weeks & learned a lot from you. Much appreciated 🇦🇺
Happy birthday and have fun, in 2 weeks!
Yay, Tom! You reviewed our model coffee machine. We paid extra for this as the auto feature, for a teen in our house, is wonderful. We made the water dispenser more in each coffee extraction for individual setting, so more coffee and water in the mug, so personalised. The size fits perfectly on my small bench space and loved how you mentioned the economic hand grip under the machine for machine carrying or shifting. Your video and explanation on review were delightful and enjoyable to watch! As always. Thank you for your coffee channel. It made our decision to purchase our 1st coffee machine enjoyable and knowledgeable to learn. We found out that you can buy a delonghi cleaning kit for 5 usess, in bulk, a lot cheaper than individual packs. Bonus!🎉
Helo Adeine, thank you so much for your thoughtful feedback! Glad you're happy. :)
Excellente démonstration avec explications claires , nettes et précises ..Merci pour la vidéo .
Tom looks like younger version Gary Oldman 👍👍 U inspired me using delonghi to make some great espresso! amazing.!
Ha, Tom, I had to pause this and go make my morning latte on my Bambino Plus before resuming watching the rest of your video. . Not trading my machine ( and coffee making experience) in for this new one! I noticed that he Bambino Plus also has a slanted water tank and an ergonomic bottom for easy lifting. Hmm, it's like the Delonghi marketing team woke up and thought that they could just 'lift 'some of Sage/Breville's innovations and repackage them - the Maestro Plus's steam wand is a bit different though. Looking forward to your head to head comparison between the two machines. Please mention their dimensions including the weight. Love your videos, Tom!
Hi Tom, I think it would be nice to see how it compares to old Dedica Arte. Can you make a video about it?
Great review Tom! I’m seeing this model for $393 on Amazon here in the USA. Seems to be a great price for what you get. I previous bought two open box models of the Specialista Artist and found an issue with the coffee selector switch on the first one which I was able to make espressos but nothing else. The second one the OK button was the only thing that worked and was unusable all together which left me a bit nervous about even a brand new Specialista. This model is giving me high hopes with the reviews I’ve been seeing so far.
I know they've had issues with their La Specialista Arte, unfortunately. The Dedica Maestro Plus has been working great for me.
I like this machine. I like light roast. Your other video comparison with Bambino helped me choose the Delonghi. It hasn't arrived yet.
We bought this for our farmstay and I think it will be excellent - so much tastier than a pod machine (hate them), though a little more complicated. Agree that not being able to run plain water is a significant annoyance.
Hi,
Thank you for this new video. I'm looking for an espresso machine to buy, but I am reaaaaaly a beginner (I never made myself a coffee, I just used automatic machines until now). What I am looking for is a machine that can be fully automatic (so that I can have a decent coffee when I don't have much time to prepare it myself), but that can also be used in advanced mode, just as you say. So what you show here reinforce my choice.
Thanks!
My experience with earlier models of the Dedica machine has led me to think that their main drawback is inadequately low and inconsistent (between shots) water temperature, often producing sour shots. From your description of this new model, its performance seems to be better and more consistent with respect to water temperature. Would you agree with this conclusion?
Yes, I'd say so. I've done several temp measurements, but just showed the 96° curve here. The Dedica seems to have 40° at the brew group before extracting, shoots up quickly to the target temp, then bows down a little during the middle, and goes back up towards the end. In the video comparing the Dedica to the BP, I compared measurements, and they do behave quite differently. I find the Dedica more favorable. Thanks for watching!
There is a small "hack" which a German Barista Team came up with to have consistent Espresso shots with the Dedica. When starting the machine, you're just pouring a single shot to pre-heat the Basket. And after that just start between each new Espresso shot, the Pre-Infusion 2x times. Meaning you're pressing the button to give out an Espresso (Doesn't matter if single or double) and immediately after the Pre-Infusion stops, you cancel the process and do that another time. After that, you put in the Basket and get your normal Espresso Shot. Hopefully that helps.
Thanks, Tom. Your videos and advice are very helpful. @@TomsCoffeeCorner
In my region, dedica maestro plus costs about $200, sage bambino $300, sage bambino plus about $500. There is also a gaggia espresso evolution option for $250. I think for me delonghi would be much preferable.
great video!! Exactly what I was looking for to better evaluate if buy or not this coffee machine
The included non-pressurized basket with the tapered walls required a coarser grind (and a stuck puck), but the IMS basket worked ok.
My 51mm IMS without the ridge on the top does not fit but the one with the ridge fits.
Yes, I think they made it that way, as it stems originally from the La Specialista line. They come with grinders that don't grind very fine, so the taper was required. I like using an IMS basket and a finer grind. Thanks for checking in! Tom
This still looks like the Breville Bambino Plus is a better situation especially since it comes with some really good baskets included, both pressurized and non-pressurized, and a portafilter that's easier to get accessories for since there's more 54 mm stuff on the market now... and it gives hot water out of the steam wand
You even got garmin tactics watch! True engineer! Awesome channel you've got!
Thank you very much!
Excellent video man! As always, do you have a list of accessories to upgrade this machine and where to buy them?
I'm actually looking into this as my first own espresso machine. I like having the fast startup times and the comfort of somewhat automated steps. Also, I really appreciate the automatized milk wand. However, I'm actually going to pair it with the Eureca Mignon Specialista, as I will surely eventually upgrade to a better espresso machine down the line and also keep hearing and reading that a proper grinder makes the biggest difference (together with a somewhat consistent brewing temp, which the maestro does offer due to its PID)
Thank you once again for your amazing review!
One more question:
Is there an option for chaning the volume per shot?
I hate cleaning the outside of the stainless steel always end up with marks. Great video thanks
Could you please make a video were you compare the temperature curves during extraction in the different settings between the ec950 and the Bambi o? I think this will be quite important for people who want to decide between the two. Thank you!
Thanks Tom, great as usual although there was no dropping your scale or camera. :) Too bad about no hot water access perhaps I will know better after your Bambino comparison which to buy.
Lol, yes surprisingly no bloopers this time. The DMP vs BP is coming soon. Cheers!
Great video!
How does it compare to the Hibrew h10a? Which would you choose?
I still am not convinced that it is better than my ECP 3420. If Delonghi would only update that model with a better steam wand and a PID we would have the perfect manual machine. Thank you for the Review,
So far it is slightly better than 3420....my 3420 broke twice, we shall see.
Hey Tom, big fan over here, managed to get beautiful and tasty coffee from my Dedica because of your videos. I feel a general liking towards the Delonghi products and am thinking about upgrading. In my country the Dedica Maestro Plus and La Specialista Arte are very close in pricing, not sure if it worth a video but in you subjective opinion which one do you think is better value?
Thank you and keep up the good content!
I think how they brew is quite similar, although I don't know if the La Specialista has a thermoprobe for a PID control. But the grinder kinda sucks on the La Specialista. Cheers!
Hi Tom. I was lucky to get my hands on the Maestro (not plus) version. Hope you can get your hands on this as this comes only with non pressurised basket. Relying on your expertise to get the most out of that machine. Thanks and keep up the good work.
Where’d you find it?
I am in Australia. 😊
@@firsstknight5818 lucky duck 🦆😅
hi. I just got a bottomless portafilter for ec680 dedica for my maestro on the assumption that they should be the same but it appears not to fit the maestro. Curious what is the size of those ears and would the dedica portafilter fit maestro? Thanks
@@firsstknight5818 No, you have to get the PF for the La Specialista. Cheers!
Love your videos, Tom and thank you! I'm new to this and I'm overwhelmed. Was going to go with a Gaggia Classic Evo Pro until I read all about boiler gate so I considered the Bambino Plus. But I like all the improvements on this one. You did a very thorough analysis. And it comes w/ pressurized and non-pressurized here in the U.S. Of course I would upgrade to the IMS and bottomless portafilter but I've read reviews that stated this model does not accept other 51mm baskets. But you used them so I'm not sure where that discrepancy came from.
Thanks for your comment! You can use the IMS 51mm baskets on this machine, but you need a PF made for the La Specialista: amzn.to/4dfmQxC (affiliate)
I just found this after a pointless chat with delonghi rep . I had the ec685 but it stopped producing steam after a few weeks so today i got a refund . Looking to replace with a mchine that takes 51mm accessories . I want to control the texturing and heating , i like 60deg not to much foam but good quality. (The first thing I did with old machine was replace the wand with a metal one )
I have 3-4 mugs a day and after a reliable machine but not overly expensive. I switched to dedica after owning a gaggia synchronisy , any recommendations? 11:36 e@TomsCoffeeCorner
Where did you get the bottomless Portafilter ?
Returning my second unit.
I love the machine and love the coffee. Unfortunately my first unit began to leak onto my counters. I returned it to Crate and Barrel - A shoutout to their exceptional customer service. My second unit worked well for less than a month, then began to leak water onto the counter. This may or may not b related to the steamer, which is wonderful.
I reached out to Delonghi, but received no response.
I was about to try to get it fixed, although there is no repait location in San Francisco, , but after twenty days it showed a need to decalcify. The first model did this as well. In my region, however, there are no minerals in the water
I will miss the coffee and the automatic frother, which at times required an additional manual frothing.
I am sad to say that I will not be trying a third unit.
This is a pity. I will miss it.
Hi there. Are you sure the water tank was seated correctly (all the way inserted)? It will be highly unusual for two of these to leak. I’ve never actually experienced that problem with any of my Dedicas, but maybe they had a bad batch. Sorry to hear it!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Yes. It appears that the model arrived minus a part, however the fact that it wants decalcification less than three weeks from arrival is a concern. I am returning it, but will not, as planned, replace it with a Brevillle. With your comment, I think I will try one last time. It is a perfect little machine. I have a Gaggia Evo Pro elsewhere, which is more challenging and less satisfactory. I will follow up.
I agree that it is odd. I had a Dedica for years before this one, and until a hose connection failed, it was problem free. The coffee was not the same, but I was quite happy. Thank you very much for your response.
@@jolynnelockley9013 Well, the descaling reminder is simply a shot counter. Therefore, the more espresso you drink, the faster the reminder will activate.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner At one to two shots a day for about twenty days--- It will not work until it is descaled, or it has simply stopped working all together. In the meantime a friend suggested the Stone "Mine" Heat Exchanger Espresso Machine or the Lelit Anna - Single Boiler Espresso Machine, each of which may be a bit above my paygrade. (Intelligence level, not price range, although...) Having looked at videos regarding the Gaggia, which I have in another location, it seems you training like a commercial pilot to run them. Now I know why I haven´t been satisfied with the Gaggia.
I appreciate your taking the time to respond very much.
thank you, have you explained in a video the differences between the baskets?
The pressurized ones are smaller, tapered, and force the liquid through just 1 hole, therefore creating the pressure on their own.
The non-pressurized have lots of holes, and are less tapered. The coffee fineness is responsible itself for the pressure.
@@TomsCoffeeCornerthanks, which one is better or is it a personal taste thing?
@@cyteen Non-pressurised baskets offer more control in terms of getting the coffee to exactly how you want it, but it does need more skill and experimenting. Pressurised baskets offer the option of using store bought pre-ground coffee, at the expense of a more mediocre shot. Objectively, the non-pressurised is better, but if you want a simpler straightforward experience to getting to espresso, then pressurised is better. So it really depends on how deep into the espresso rabbit hole you are willing to explore.
@@itsFisch thank you, got it!! take care
@@cyteen Non-pressurized is pretty much universally seen as better, but it requires a fresh bean, and a fine grind.
I am currently using an old Dedica and was thinking about upgrading to the Arte model. Do you think it is worth paying extra for the Maestro Plus? Is it worth the extra just to get a PID?
I'd say yes. For sure if you want to do lighter roast beans. Cheers!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner thanks for the Information. Did you do any temperatur test on the Maestro plus? I don‘t think that the temperatur is so important then how constant it is. Do you know of any temperatur curve or something like that?
Happy Easter Tom!
Will you maybe do a review of the new Graef CM1116 flatburr coffee grinder, I believe it's around €500 and it looks similar to Eureka products?
Happy Easter! Hmm, you're right that it does look exactly like a Eureka, with a slightly different housing. I think Eureka is licensing out their product. They let Solis make one with the Solis name on it, too.
New subscriber! I would love if you could review the De’Longhi Elatta Explorer
Coming soon!
Awesome! Thank you!
Hey Tom, as I always say great video. And thanks to you I now have one. Planning ahead, do you think you could do one of your descaling videos for this model? I used your original dedica descale video so much. And the delonghi videos are not as easy to watch as yours. If you do then a massive thank you. 🙏
Hi there! Sure, I'll do one when it's time to descale it. Thanks for the idea!
No hot water that’s a bummer. My wife’s a big tea drinker and I love making her a London fog. Great video Tom ☕️👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽😎
Get a kettle!
What is better ? 685/885 or 950? I don’t now what is better to bay, like a first espresso machine 😢
I'd call myself an intermediate enthusiast. Unfortunately my introductory machine has died after only a year and I need to find a replacement. It seemed to be very closely engineered after the original Dedica and I much enjoyed the design which makes me attracted to the Delonghi over a Breville. Unfortunately, I'm stuck between the Dedica Arte and the Maestro.
A couple things holding me up - 1. this machine is over twice the price of the Arte, and while the automatic features are appealing, I don't feel they're vital for me. I am curious, however, how much the tempurature control will improve the quality of my brew.
2. I purchased a portafilter upgrade for my last machine in 51mm. That wasn't too long ago and it will be frustrating to need to purchase another bottomless filter on the side if i upgrade to a 54mm grouphead
Curious on thoughts of whether the upgrade is worth all this
Hi Sami, well just so you know, the DMP also has a different portafilter than the Arte. But there's also no guarantee that the PF you bought for your previous machine will work in a Dedica. Which market are you in? USA?
First I have to praise the excellent video. I appreciate the effort you put into recording and explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each device. I have two questions so if you can help me. I only drink espresso without milk, which means the pure taste of coffee without sugar and other additives. In your opinion, what is the best espresso machine with a portafilter and what is the best superautomatic machine if I am looking for the best espresso taste, the rest is not important to me. Thank you very much for your help!
Thanks for your kind feedback. For a SA, so far the best I've tried is the Dinamica Plus. I think the Jura E8 would also do a good job. For a portafilter machine, there are just so many options. I'd suggest getting one with a heated brew group, and ideally with an OPV and temp that you can regulate for different beans. Have fun looking!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thanks for the suggestion for Dinamica. I don't really understand these technical things you mentioned. Do you have one or two device suggestions that have all of these things?
@@acmilanmilan7485 Feel free to contact me at my website, and I can give a few suggestions. It's easier to communicate that way. Cheers!
Greetings, I am torn between the Dedica and a manual press like the Cafelat Robot - For your personal taste and workflow which one do you prefer/recommend. Would you say that the taste of a manual level is better than a Dedica and worth the extra elbow grease or is life just easier with a semi-auto machine?
I’d honestly never use the robot as a daily driver. The workflow will be cumbersome for me, and you have to consider preheating any device that doesn’t come with a heater installed. That being said, I have heard that the robot can make excellent shots with the right prep, and is better build quality than the Dedica. My choice would be the EC 900.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thank you!
Is it worth buying this or just stick to the dedica art? For daily cappuccino.
Hi Tom thanks for all your helpful videos. Just got my Dedica EC950M after days of using I can’t pull a good shot. Bitter and dry sensation to the tongue. Help. Thanks Tom and have a nice Easter
Hi Donald, which beans, grinder, dose, and baskets are you using? Please also check here for reference. Beans make a big big difference: tomscoffeecorner.com/what-are-the-best-beans-for-espresso/
Hi Tom, does the ims dl200nt/dl200im shower screen for the dedica ec685 fit this maestro version?
@@dtran1742 I am assuming it does, but I have not double checked myself to be honest.
What is the benefit of machines having pre-infusion in the espresso?
Many thanks for another excellent video. Temperature wise, do you think this is more stable than GCD at least in advanced mode, but maybe the GCD better in basic mode? Shot wise, does this taste better than the GCD or bambino plus?
Do you mean the Gaggia Espresso Deluxe? I think their systems are quite similar, in fact the thermoblocks with temp probes look suspicously similar. But, the GED has an awful shower screen, and I don't really like the build quality as much as the Dedica. Cheers!
Yes I meant the Gaggia espresso. Thanks
Hi Tom, i appreciate your videos a lot. Do you have any opinions, or experienced thoughts on laekerrt machines? They seem good? But there are no in-depth reviews out there.
Hmm, to me it looks like another Chinese no name, like Gevi, Silvercrest, etc. Cheers!
Ps - I don't concentrate on machines like this because these companies can be here today, and gone tomorrow.
Hey you recommend spending little more on the machine or go with the previous model?
Depends how much the difference is. I think this one is better due to the temp adjustments though.
Hi I'm new at this and thinking of getting a coffee machine but I would like a small one as I do not have a big space in my kitchen. Any suggestion? Btw, what is a crema?
With those 'new' feature upgrade for the dedica, I'll go with the Bambino. lol
hey Tom, I recently got an EC950M and looking for upgrades, I remember you mentioned it has the same group head as the Specialista, are you sure the basket filters and portafilters for the Specialista would fit perfectly?
Yes, they do. Cheers!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Alright! thanks for the reply!
First of all thank you so much for all the information you sher with us. I would likw to know what is the maximum pressure Dedic 950 vs 685 because on both tehcnical specification it says 15 bar. is this the actual pressure or is the maximum pressure for wich the machine was tested for.
I measured it in my previous video (where I take the lid off), at 11-12 bar.
thanks for video, why it's better to keep it there for 60 seconds ? thanks
Because otherwise it'll splatter everywhere from the residual pressure.
I just bought this recently and I'm having trouble with frothing the milk in manual mode. Having second thoughts if I should return it.
@@Tisay94 It just takes a lot of practice. But it’s worth it once you get it! Look up Lance Hedrick on UA-cam. He can help you out :-)
What is the function of the 2 solenoids you mention?
They are to switch between espresso and steam mode, and purge the water circuit, or steam wand. I show it here: ua-cam.com/video/4_zP_rnLuDU/v-deo.html
Hi.. im looking for a good coffee machine plz suggest me a good coffee machine as im beginner
Hi! I bought a Krups Intuition and was fooling around with the nozzle and disconnected it whilst the machine was making Cappuccino and thus (I think) the machine ''ran dry'' so the system did not get any milk input, is it bad for the system? Should I return it because I never had this happen or is it totally fine, a lot of steam came out and that's it, the issue I guess is that I can't compare the milk foam to ''what it i supposed to be'' since it was the second cup!
Which size of grind I need to use?
I am thinking of buying the Delonghi EC885 model, but the temperature setting in EC900 model confused me, I like the coffee hotter.
Does the EC900 or EC950 model have more hot water features than the EC885?
I would be happy if you help.
If the EC900 is similar in price to the EC885, then for sure get the newer model. But if not, then the EC885 should do alright too.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thanks for the answer.
I couldn't find the EC900 or EC950 model in the european region (on the internet, amazon etc.)
It seems like there is no other option.
EC885 or wait for EC900 model.
Hi, Do you know if this uses the "Thick film heating element" technology? Those are used in some of the Breville/Sage espresso machines. Thanks!
Sorry, never heard of that before. What is that?
@@TomsCoffeeCorner They are the printed heaters that are in the shape of a coil. Most new coffee machines seem to be using these particular heaters made by "Ferro Techniek ". I have a few projects that I want to use these in, and am looking for the easiest way to get one. They are basically "instant heat" zero boiler design heat sources
Does the auto purge help lower the boiler temp in order to pull another shot right away? I usually have to manually purge quite a long time with my Arte
Yes sir! This was something confusing for a lot of new users - they often turned the machines off, then back on, to pull a shot after steaming. Now it cools itself down automatically.
Tom can you verify that the Ears on the portafilter are smaller on this model than other Delonghi espresso machines, i bought a bottomless portafilter for this unit and the ears were bigger than the filter that came with this unit and wouldnt fit , do you know of a wood handled bottomless 51mm that will work with this machine? Appreciate it thank you
Yes, I have a link in the video description. In fact, it's the same PF as the La Specialista line.
@@TomsCoffeeCornerExcellent thx Brother 🙏🏻
Excellent job!
nice but I prefer the traditional steam rod
What machine would you recommend that has a hot water option. I drink americanos mostly
Probably EC900, it's also cheaper. Or, Bambino Plus.
How did the first sip of hot water taste? 😄
sounds like you cannot get hot water to use for tea out of this machine? I like the compact size and everything else but would like to be able to get hot water as I have a small apartment. Am I understanding correctly and if so what machine would you recommend?
Right, it doesn't have a hot water outlet. You could consider the Bambino Plus, or really most other machines provide it.
I could care less about a steamer, is this any better then the standard dedica before it when it comes down to espresso quality?
I do find it better. This one has a thermoprobe, and slightly better temperature management. Cheers!
@@TomsCoffeeCornerthank you
always appreciate the reviews for the new products. Well, this machine looks really nice. I'm gonna stick with my Dedica Arte for right now since it's only two years old I don't feel I need to upgrade it all. That said, I always enjoy videos, so thank you very much.
Can anyone tell me what bottomless portafilter fits this?
Check the video description for links. Cheers!
Dessini CM 1820 for next video,please😬!
Hmm, to me it looks like another Chinese no name, like Gevi, Silvercrest, etc. Cheers!
Ps - I don't concentrate on machines like this because these companies can be here today, and gone tomorrow.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Noted🥲
Где её купить.
The price difference of more than 200 euro with the previous Dedica is insane.
I think they have to amortize a new design. The new solenoids cost like $25-50 each alone. Cheers!
Aw, it's not made of ferromagnetic stainless steel? That's kind of a bummer. Can't stick your magnetic coffee gear onto it.
This is the first time I've seen you have trouble pouring latte art. You did even better with stock Panarello steam wands.
Yes that's right, the SS of the housing is not magnetic. As for the latte art, it's not easy when auto-frothing, as the consistency is not ideal. I have however gotten decent latte art in manual mode off camera, but I used 1.8% here, and that frothed up too much. But also, I think the thermoprobe gets in the way of the swirl a bit. Finally, I am sometimes inconsistent at latte art, so could be some user error mixed in.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner I think it also makes it worse that it purges inside of the milk, adding water, which will make it harder to get a nice microfoam.
@@CaveyMothNo, it actually purges into the drip tray. That’s the gurgling sound you hear. 😂
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Ohh, that is really cool!
I really wanna know if you drank the hot water at 5:15
Lol, I considered it, but tossed it in the end. Cheers!
I would call this new DMP as missed opportunity for DeLonghi. Ugly steaming wand aka horse leg and several three-way solenoids none of them used to release pressure from head are from my point of view unforgettable construction and design flaws.
why do you need hot water?
Dude we are waiting your destroying mods on this rig as well 😂
Hot water for a long black would be nice.
Том - тайный работник корпорации Delonghi
Lol, nope.
Уточните её глубину без чалды,
450 €omg my ec685 130 €