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Subject: L1 - feedback

Date: 26 November 2012 13:06:48 GMT

To: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Hi Reiss,

i received my machine last friday. Thank you! :-)))

* Packaging
You did a good job with the packaging as three cuts (approx. 4-5cm deep) in the outer cartonage could not harm the machine inside, thanks to the polystyrol.
For better protection of the lever and its grasp against scratches (packaged together with the portafilters in the small package beneath the group) i suggest wrapping it separately in some air cushion foil. The scratches are not too bad but could have been avoided.

* Group
I do like the massive group, especially the top part without any plastic covering or cap trying to 'hide' the mechanics.

* Inside
The stainless steel housing is easily removed for accessing the interior of the machine. The copper boiler and the fat tubing is impressive.
Seeing the massive stable frame which the group is attached to, one can easily understand the absence of any flex when pulling the lever (i disliked this flex very much when watching a video of the Strega).
Nice clean electrical wiring.
What is the purpose of the thin tube going from the outlet of the flow to the upper thermosyphon to a lower outlet of the boiler?

* Shots
Already the very first shot pulled with the new machine (7.5g yellow bourbon, LM1 basket) was very good!
Same with the following ones... :-)  Completely easy in contrast to my experience with a Europiccola some years ago.

* Drip tray
There is much room (depth & height) above the drip tray easing the cleaning of portafilter and cups. The even surface of the grate is easily wiped.
I have plumbed in the drip tray by drilling a hole and glueing a spout to the bottom side. So water flows through one of the slots in the chassis into a plastic cup with an attached sink tube. The cup itself (Fiorenzato spare part) sits in a hole cut into the table under the machine.
Not having to empty the drip tray is a real easement.

* Plumbing in
I got the missing reduction part today and will plumb in the machine tonight, thereby bypassing the pump. Compared to the rotary of my Duetto the Ulka is really loud - i am looking forward to complete silence tonight.

* Steaming power
Comparing with the Duetto and its two hole tip steam arm the power of L1's steaming capacitiy is enormous. I will have to learn to master the power...

* Lever grasp
The quality of the lever grasp seems quite 'basic' to me. There are sharp edges at both ends needing to be deburred. A grasp made of bakelite or wood would make a much better fit to the high quality machine. Same holds true for the two small levers of the hot water and steam taps. Anyway, no big deal, i'll replace them soon with their wooden brother and sisters.

* Bottomless portafilter
I am eagerly waiting for a bottomless pf that fits nicely into the group as my old one has its bajonet nut connectors in a 90° angle to the handle and additionally does not slide easily in.

* Duetto
Is looking for a new owner...

Thanks a lot for building this great machine!

Best regards,

Jochen.