The SLEEPER - Ascaso Dream PID Review

[@sarahvmp]

I think this is my fave ascaso machine, it’s so pretty 😍

[@BrkgBeans]

I used to have this machine without PID. Now I have the steel duo. There's less space to work around than the uno. It's hard to fit a scale and a cup under the portafilter, there's not enough space to put a mirror on the dip tray. I think the uno is for the geeks, and the dream is a really great machine for the ones who just want to enjoy a cup of coffee on the morning and don't necessarily want to monitor their shot everytime.

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

That’s a great assessment - I totally agree and concisely put!

[@paperythinideas]

Been waiting for this review! Currently restoring a pre-2010 Dream and its a super fun machine to use. Would really love the improved internals, group and features of the new Dream PID I think they've come a long way in past 10 years!

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

They really have! Please message me once you’ve completed your restoration!

[@LightZone9]

It's always been an interesting looking machine for me, although it's not as advanced as I am used to. I was surprised to hear that the case is actually made of plastic because it really has a look of retro quality, like an old milkshake mixer from the 50s or even a Hobart dough mixer. Not that I'm made of money, but at that price point it is ALMOST cheap enough to buy just to have sitting on the shelf above the coffee bar as a conversation piece. As I continue to use my Ascaso Baby T Plus I am more won over by the quality and technology they put into their designs. Thanks for another interesting review.

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

They definitely pack in a lot of the price. And as you mention the looks are almost universally liked.

[@pierredavid821]

The case is def not plastic. Aluminum.

[@MarineX]

I love my Ascaso Dream PID. I have had it over a year. Here are the only things I envy from its big brothers, dedicated water spout, a light near the group head, and channels in the drip tray to keep it from splashing around when I go to dump it.

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

All great points! Seconded on the lights and extra clearance under the group being nice on the Uno/Duo. The dream advertises barista lights but they’re only in the reservoir. The water spout is only on the duo, not the uno!

[@jackgtravis]

Love this review ❤ This is a nice little machine. I have a Bambino Plus and this feels like a more prosumer/enthusiast version of it. I would love to be able to play with temperature, pressure and pre-infusion which this has in such a compact package. I don’t think you’re even right to say that they have made many compromises given I would never expect a single thermocoil machine at this price to have amazing steam power or to need time for temperature surfing. Ascaso just seem ahead of the game here, I think the Duo would have to be my end game machine as I would love to have that dual thermocoil upgrade

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

I agree, but still feel the need to point out the drawbacks of the thermocoil design. A new person might not realize what all that results in. But you’re right, it’s a great package

[@NoZenith]

Dual thermojet 😮🤤 also shopped the dream and its compelling, but I spent half the price for the Simplicity of my first set up= also Bambino Plus x Niche Zero here

[@orrinbelcher6593]

Super fun video, super cool espresso machine, I love your video on it. I would buy it.

[@azndoodle1]

I just picked up the dream PID this past weekend and also straight out of the box I got the E01 error and eventually burned out the motor. Luckily store I bought it from has amazing customer service and swapped out a new one for me and we tested it before I left the store. I highly recommend with Ascaso machines to buy from someone who can respond to your issues immediately.

[@yanickbrechbuhl7162]

Thanks for this great review!! I'm thinking about buying the Ascaso, but I still have a few doubts and I would like to ask you a few questions: - Is a lungo or a little more (60-80ml) possible, does the temperature remain stable? - I have my water filter in the fridge, so the water in the water tank is cold when I fill it up. To me it would be logical if that affects the output temperature, do you know if that is correct? - If I want to switch between dark and light roast for two shots and adjust the temperature with the PID, how long do I have to wait until it is stable at the new temperature? - What do you think of the workflow for a cappuccino (I rarely make it, only for visitors), is it rather frustrating or is it okay? I'm especially thinking about the wait after the shots (is the crema still good?) - There are various reports in several forums about suddenly occurring problems, for example the solenoid valve. Can you say something about the quality and durability of the machine? very big thank for your work, would be a pleasure to hear from you! Greetings

[@WillardTurner]

Absolutely! I used to own a Dream (No PID) and it made great coffee! I was actually quite surprised by how much I enjoyed using it, and the quality of the coffee. It's very much like a Breville Bambino, but with sturdier construction and better looks.

[@handshake883]

Ascaso again. This dude is a salesman.

[@Levinator25]

He's upfront regarding his partnership with Espresso Parts aka Ascaso USA. Makes sense that he reviews a lot of Ascaso machines, also why people are asking him about other Ascaso models hence this review.

[@handshake883]

Yes, that's why i said he's a salesman. You can't take his "reviews" seriously.

[@Levinator25]

@@handshake883 he has addressed his inevitable bias and morals in another video. Just good to see more Ascaso videos on KZbin imo. Seems like Sprometheus has a Steel Duo on his bench so you can expect a review from him soon as well.

[@handshake883]

I'd rather see Spro review the machine than someone who makes money on sales of the machine :D

[@CarlosVargas-js8qz]

Yes and no. He’s definitely promoting the brand and he’s upfront about his partnership with the N.A. Distributor but imo he’s coming across legit and honest pointing out the pros and cons. In fact he went out of his way to point out some of the latest quality issues and he didn’t need to do that. Ultimately you gotta do your own research to make the best possible educated decision. That means read more customer reviews and depend less on a KZbin video. I bought a DUO last year (v2) and ended up returning it, sadly because I really liked it for the very short period of time on my countertop. My decision to return it was perhaps a bit rushed and I did it mostly out of frustration. The unit I received was faulty and the steaming didn’t work well. The seller did offer a replacement but I opted for a return and refund. I ended up getting a total different concept - HX machine but all is good. I did pull a few shots with the DUO and it was extremely easy to work with.

[@Foolsauce]

I love the look of the Ascaso Dream. More importantly, Sculptor 078S review when? :)

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

I’ve had a couple struggles with that grinder. It has taken forever to season properly and I’ve found it quite difficult to dial in. Review will hit in September 💪

[@Foolsauce]

@@DaddyGotCoffee You're not the first person I've seen have those complaints! Makes me wonder if I ordered the wrong grinder... 🙃

[@sipntools]

Justin... you've done it again!! 👏🏽

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

Thank you Jackie!

[@chielichiel]

The steamwand has a double layer as well so you don’t burn yourselve touching it. Perhaps you could have mentioned all the advanced features of the PID vs the cheap regular version. But excellent video, thanks!

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

Maybe in a future video! Great suggestion!

[@brendansmith]

Nice video. I already own an Ascaso Baby T, but I wantched it anyway and enjoyed learning a few things along the way. Cheers!

[@stephengrace4389]

Random question I can never find - is the portafilter handle removable? If I switch to a bottomless but wanted to keep the matching wood handle would I be able to do so?

[@TheMrJuhis]

I bought a regular ascaso dream for 100 euros. Love the quickness. On the regular one i am left wanting the PID capabilities, and the 57mm portafilter size bothers me for the lack of third party accessories. Otherwise i love it. I am thinking of the possibilities to mod it, though it doesn't really have a modding community.

[@NoZenith]

I really wanted the Simplicity speed and lower cost of the Bambino plus but I love the look of these! Looks so good with the Niche Zero! I am with your wife, in its smallish footprint, there's nothing that looks better on the counter.

[@dejanmatovic8859]

Great machine.Please give me recepies for dial medijm roast Illy Classico from 16 gram in?

[@sms4hou676]

The answer to portafilter heating is a bottomless filter. They are the only type I use now.

[@TheMartinChnnl]

I only need to now one thing: how good is the espresso that it can produce? Is the temperature stability comparable to boiler machines? Up to what second?

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

All the Ascaso thermocoils are the same design and incredibly temperature stable. In my experience they are extremely consistent during normal shot flow up to the 30-35 second mark, after that they can tail off a couple degrees. If you’re up for a watch in German, the channel Kaffemacher has a great review on the Duo where they do a lot of testing and plotting on temp stability. It’s the same thermocoil in this machine. Hope that helps!

[@TheMartinChnnl]

@@DaddyGotCoffee Thanks, so should I assume the espresso it produces is comparable to that one in much bigger and heavier machines? Because I never understand if "just heated" water thermodynamically behaves the same way as "thermally stabilized" water which sits inside a boiler...

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

@@TheMartinChnnl yup, as far as espresso is concerned, it’s basically the same. Steam performance is a lot less powerful on a machine like this, and you need to let the thermocoil adjust temp between espresso and steaming. There are other things where a dual boiler setup brings advantages but espresso quality on good quality thermocoils is fantastic

[@TheMartinChnnl]

@@DaddyGotCoffee thank you, your answer is very much appreciated!

[@MariusWM]

Can confirm. I've had the Dream PDI for two years, and have had the E01 error a couple of times. I got it fixed for free, and the dealer says it's something to do with a part in the pump or something getting dirty.

[@milos.sladecka]

The problem is the flowmeter, I got E01 twice, The first time it was under waranty and seller send me new flowmeter so I disassembled the machine -: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqqQkI2MjdOXeMk and changed it. When it happend second time, I did something different. Even a small dirt in water clogs the flowmeter as there is very small hole for water flow ( around 1mm - I do not remember whether it is on inflow or outflow, only one hole is so small). I finally solved it by drilling bigger hole in the body of flowmeter. I do not know, if it has some negative effect on measuring of flow, as I don´t use volumetric metering, I stop coffee flow manualy by weight. Since then I have not got any error message.

[@MariusWM]

I doubt you needed to buy a new flowmeter. It is about cleaning it I think. But it is a weakness that it is prone to dirt. Im wondering if Ascaso could make it better or offer a way to clean it. Would there be any way to do this without opening the machine?@@milos.sladecka

[@milos.sladecka]

@@MariusWM I didn´t buy it, the seller of the machine sent it to me free of charge. So now I have one original flowmeter and one with bigger hole (and that is in the machine). The hole in flowmeter is so small that I doubt you will be able to clean it without opening the machine but this task is really uncomplicated, as you can see in the video I sent link to. It is a matter of a few minutes.

[@paulhearne9898]

The whole case is metal (cast Aluminium), your review suggested it was a plastic case but it’s very well built indeed.

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

Thank you for this correction! Man, the quality of the paint finish really had me fooled (in a good way!) I thought for sure it was molded coloured plastic, it’s perfectly smooth and matte finish. The cast Aluminum doesn’t “ring” like metal either, but on closer inspection you’re definitely right! Thanks again

[@bosiorne2292]

who is better lelit mara x or this they are same price on my country?

[@ShayanGivehchian]

It's nice but It's definitely not worth 3 times as much as a Gaggia classic pro.

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

I’m working on getting my hands on a GCP. Impressive that it has stayed relevant as long as it has.

[@troyheffernan1261]

What type of warranty and how did it taste ?

[@MyongGong]

Im glad I watched this video, I hate the drip tray! Ill save up for the Duo.

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

You won’t regret it!

[@AnnaBanana163]

Would you recommend the dream PID over the steel uno?

[@woxiduswoxidus1167]

only longterm usage could confirm thermoblock advantages.

[@puppetsnob]

I am team Dream style! I wish they made the Duo in the Dream style for the price of the Uno or less. ;) That might be an unattainable Dream though.

[@ychevall]

Nice review, the only missing point is a review of the machine :) we don’t see it in situation, we don’t hear it, we don’t feel it…

[@WTFA54]

I know some people run the steam wand for other machines to reduce the flow coming from the grouphead, but that always requires having another container to contain the hot water coming out of the wand. Does this somehow let you do that without wasting water from the wand?

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

I used a separate cup under the wand when I tried this. You could do it straight into the drip tray which would obviously fill up the drip tray pretty quickly

[@phillipkittila4129]

While your review is incredibly well made and very thorough I think it’s a little ridiculous to compare this machine to the Breville bambino due the the price gap between the two being over 1000 dollars. I know this isn’t a comparison video, but if you were to compare this machine to the other espresso machines from breville’s line up the dual boiler would be the closest one.

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

As you mentioned, this isn’t a comparison video, and in the section of the video you’re referring to, I’m comparing this thermoblock design to others, almost all of which are less expensive (like the Bambino) and don’t have actively heated groups. Any other place I make a more direct comparison I use the Profitec Go. Definitely not trying to draw a 1:1 comparison here, only point out the advantages of a heated group and the fact that this is uncommon with a thermoblock

[@andreas3120]

Can’t confirm quick heat up time since the portafilter itself needs 15 min to heat up on my Steel Duo…

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

Yeah the ~90 seconds doesn't include the portafilter. Most of the time I usually use a bottomless which doesn't require preheating in the same way. Extra time or PF flush is needed for full heating of a spouted pf, as it would on any other machine.

[@ThisisBobshouse]

The body isn’t plastic. “The Dream espresso machine's body is manufactured in aluminum. After preliminary polishing, the machine is treated with a high-quality varnish for a lasting finish and vibrant colors.”

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

Yup I missed and corrected this in another comment!

[@Elivaztv]

Would you say that this is a better option than the UNO, the Profitec GO or even the Diletta Mio?

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

Great question! It basically is an Uno in a different case so if you like the looks, definitely a good option. I have heard about some negative experiences with the Mio but haven’t had hands on one personally. Regarding the profitec go, personally I would take the advantages of the thermocoil ( faster warm up, temp stability and efficiency) over the extra punch on steam from the GO boiler, but that might not be true for everyone!

[@Elivaztv]

Interesting, appreciate your feedback 🙏🏼 thanks!

[@hazelstreet1654]

That machine is beautiful. Looks very 1960's.

[@ShayanGivehchian]

This would have been a no Brainer choice if it was under 1k$

[@NoZenith]

For sure... But there are so many options that are a little simpler as a daily driver and yet still offer the more involved ability to play around on the weekend for under a thousand. I really wish I had at least a couple degrees temperature selection on my Bambino plus. It's literally the only thing I wish I had. I got some amazing medium roast beans that I don't feel are even all that terribly light but everything points to the fact my machine just doesn't get hot enough to get away from the sourness. I love it in a pour-over as I have always been a fan of medium roast coffees over dark roast or extremely light roast coffee, but I just can't shake the sourness even though everything else about it, even the aroma is delightful😢

[@cichlisuite2]

@@NoZenith Your comment is helpful to me as I'm on the fence about to buy a Bambino Plus as a compromise machine (want a lever but am waiting until I have more kitchen space and sorting out a few other issues). The inability to handle lighter roasts had me thinking, "well, I'll just stick to good medium roast beans for espresso" but your comment makes me wonder if it's even capable of that? Have you tried a better basket and what grinder are you using? Have you made sure your puck prep is as good as it can be? This appeals as it has temp control but where I am it would still be almost 4 times the price of a Bambino plus (due to great deals on the Bambino right now).

[@NoZenith]

@@cichlisuite2 I'll be back to give a better response. I made it to Big And it couldn't post and I messed it up so I have to put my words in a more concise response

[@cichlisuite2]

The styling on the Steel series is waaaaaaaaaaaay better than the Dream. I like the features it offers at a lower price point but it would hurt me to have to look at that on my kitchen bench every day. I am definitely not a fan of the faux retro styling.

[@doxman13]

If you were to pick one between this and profitec go, which one would you pick?

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

I really leverage preinfusion when pulling shots - and I'm not a huge dairy guy so I don't need any extra punch of a boiler for steaming. So features wise for price, the dream would be my pick, personally. However, if I'm honest I do like the look of the Go over the dream - that factors in a well. I would probably still grab the dream - my wife loves the styling

[@luisdelvalle9607]

Better than a Breville Barista?

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

It’s absolutely a step up from that, however it doesn’t have an integrated grinder

[@nomaanchaudhry5123]

You keep saying great value, but I fail to see it compared to the Profitec Go.

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

I mean you may disagree here, but for me preinfusion is a big one. I trend toward lighter roasts so this may not be as critical if you prefer darks which are more soluble and benefit less from preinfusion. Combined with the faster warm up and temperature changeover of a thermoblock compared to a single boiler, all at a similar price and you have easily greater value. Some may prefer a boiler and consider that greater value, that’s not me though.

[@nomaanchaudhry5123]

@@DaddyGotCoffee The price points for Ascaso are odd, they're all bunched up together and self cannibalizing. My budget was $1k, but if it was slightly higher, no doubt I'd jump to the Duo, but alas I'm married and have to budget. The pre-infusion was sacrificed but I prefer V60 for light roasts anyway.

[@andrewbcaldwell]

It would be interesting to see the difference in time it takes to switch from brew temp to steam temp on the Profitec Go and Ascaso Dream. The Profitec Go is compelling for sure.

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

@@andrewbcaldwell preinfusion is a big gap on the Go (for me!) but I would love to get my hands on one to make this comparison. You’re right that it’s a very compelling unit in the same tier! Thanks for commenting!

[@andrewbcaldwell]

@@DaddyGotCoffee my guess would be the Dream can ramp up to steam temp faster with its thermocoil…but you never know! Preinfusion is a great feature for sure. It’s probably the one key thing that is missing on my Profitec Pro 300 (essentially a GO with a dedicated steam boiler).

[@TheCyclingCardio]

Gosh…i probably got a winner here

[@nyccolm]

You guys really need to get your facts straight before you post reviews. It’s not plastic, it’s aluminum up top, stainless at the base.

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

Mentioned by others, edited and corrected. Can’t believe that one slipped by me.

[@yamcha111]

isn't this machine like 5 or so years old now?

[@DaddyGotCoffee]

Sure is! I get questions about it frequently so I wanted to get some content up on it

[@rob3liss]

Looks like it should say “Hamilton Beech” on it…

[@spartan9212]

I highly recommend no one wastes their money on this over priced machine. The Turin legato destroys this for a fraction of the price.

[@erukuish]

That machine seem to only be available in 120v?