Solis Barista Perfetta Plus: Delonghi Dedica Destroyer or Not?

[@BigBenAdv]

I've had both units - the EC685 modded with Rancillo wand (gave this away to my colleague) and currently on the Solis Perfectta Plus. I'd say that if you can establish and stabilize the workflow on the Dedica; and further have all the necessary aftermarket accessories, then moving to the Solis isn't any big of an upgrade unless you need to consistently make multiple shots. For the Dedica, it takes more shots to 'calibrate' the grind (when changing beans especially) because your only way of estimating is the taste of the espresso shot. The Solis has the manometer which helps with major grind change requirements but it's not necessarily the most accurate out of the box (probably up to about 1 bar off). One simple mod that should be done on the Solis is to shield the water outlet/ inlet hole under the shower screen - you didn't show the puck after extraction but if you look at it, there is a divot/ dimple in the puck opposite side of the portafilter handle. This is because the water outlet is directly facing the shower screen and that spot has higher pressure (if you pull a blank shot without the filter, you can see a jet of water exit towards the back of the machine). This does create uneven pressure in the puck and causes channeling. This can easily be fixed by removing the shower screen, and adding a small food safe plastic piece to cover the hole (the water will still exit to the rest of the shower screen via the channels in the group). For further information, see the reddit thread: www.reddit.com/r/espresso/comments/11ojaq0/solis_barista_perfetta_grouphead_fix/ Ultimately, I'm happy with the Solis because it's what I need - a semi-automatic machine (so the missus can use it without knowing how to time and weigh shots), has the 3-way valve, and has the cooldown after steaming function. The main advantages I see for buying a Solis over the Dedica are: 1) Comes with all the decent accessories you need to start off - Solid metal tamper, milk jug, single walled baskets, has water filter in the tank for those who need it. Note: Some accessories differ by region and distributor - locally, the distributor has promotions from time to time where they give out free silicone mats with the purchase or run basic half-day espresso making workshops etc. 2) Better availability of nice after market accessories because of the Breville's popularity - e.g. Tampers, baskets, bottomless portafilters, shower screens, puck screens etc. 3) Self-cooling after steaming for multiple shots. 4) 3-way valve for drier pucks makes it easier to knock them out clean - this can be overcome on the Dedica by using a puck screen to force the puck to keep its shape.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

This is an awesome comment, I'm gonna pin it! Thanks for all of those tips. It's good to know about the shower plate mod, and I am also glad to hear that you are happy with the machine. Which basket are you using? I bought an aftermarket Neouza one, which is better than the included one, but I imagine that an IMS 54mm would be the best choice. I also opened up this machine, and the quality of components looks really good - lots of brass parts, including the steam valve, and the connections look good. I like the manometer feature, but on my model, it was always around 15 bar, which can't be right. Anyway, thanks for your very thorough comment! Tom

[@BigBenAdv]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner I'm using the stock basket along with a cheap China bottomless portafilter. I do have the Neouza basket too but it requires a larger dose (it's straight walled and holds more than the stock basket with the angled wall at the bottom). If you're consistently getting 15 bar on the Solis, your grind might be too fine. What I realised on the Solis is that the dosage matters. On the stock basket, I'd need to dose about 19g and that's including a 1mm thick puck screen. For the Neouza basket this would need about 1g to 2g more than stock (depending on the beans and roast). Any less and the pressure rise will take too long whilst the grind expands towards the top. With a sufficient dose, I'd typically see the pressure rise to about 11+ bar peak within 1.5 to 2s (after pre-infusion) and very gradually lowers over the extraction to about 10+ bar (about 1 bar drop). That pretty much gives a good extraction consistently. Also, the extraction time is on the shorter side (about 28 to 30s including the 5s pre-infusion) but the taste matters more.

[@FunkyLoiso]

Glad my grouphead mod is useful to you! Personally I'm not quite satisfied with it so I ended up using a puck screen as well.

[@FunkyLoiso]

@@BigBenAdv Problem with this machine is there is no pressure limit (at least in my unit), so the shots are too fast, and if you grind finer - the pressure is too high which promotes channeling and harsher taste. I'm planning on checking for the over pressure valve to see if it can be tweaked to 9bar limit

[@BigBenAdv]

@@FunkyLoiso Not sure why the replies don't seem to be going through but there is an OPV inside the Solis but it's not very accessible. You can try lowering the temperature and letting the shots run slower, which is what I do.

[@CoffeeandCoilsYT]

The plastic insert is purely for heat retention on your shot. Because the thermoblock doesn't effectively heat up the portafilter (when not doing dummy shots to preheat) so when the shot hits the plastic it doesn't lose a lot of its heat through the portafilter sapping a lot of the heat out of the espresso

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Well, that makes sense. But for those of us that want to preheat, it is nice on the Solis, that you can take out the plastic insert. Somehow the shots taste better to me when teh PF is properly preheated.

[@MrRondonmon]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Plus who wants hot water running over plastic parts, Yikes !! They are selling this Soli model now for 329 in the U.S. but imho, the Gaggia Pro for 399 is a no brainer for beginners. Before I got this I would get the Delonghi 3420, I have a Gaggia Prestuge Auto, not really happy at all, you just can't dial those things in tbh. I will pass it on to family and get me a Gaggia Pro or Appartmento. I think the G Pro will suffice my needs looking at your videos, Thanks for all the tips Tom.

[@DanielB-j3o]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Could the fact that you have probably not used the plastic in the PF when you tested the temperature is partly the reason why you found it to low?Adding to this, the possibility of a lost of pressure because of the probe wire that may have cause a certain lost of pressure that could also have affected the temperature? Talking about plastic,.. I just saw the brew head on Red. Could it also be made of plastic? That part where are two or three holes in it, one being the pressure gauge hole, just mentioning this hole so that you understand what what part I woukd like to better describe. Plastic molecules run into our blood stream. I'm not interested in drinking plastic at all. Since I'm going crazy trying to realise a good buy, and that my actual espresso maker has a bad PF, and the milk frotter (the plastic part connected at the boiler broke two months ago... It's a EM-100 from Cuisinart. It's not easy to find after-market parts references for that machine.

[@prinzatago]

6:00 The plastic insert is there to keep the coffee hot - it prevents the heat from transferring onto the bottom of the portafilter. It is commonly seen on thermo-block heating systems because they don't usually heat up the portafilter passively. On Delonghi's machines (especially those with pressurized basket), the plastic insert also regulates the high-pressure coffee stream to mimic true espresso system's smooth, honey like flow.

[@charlescoats7425]

Great comparison video Tom! Still making great espresso, cappuccino, lattes with my Dedica. Almost 4 shots a day for over 4 years and still going strong! Happy New year from Dallas/ Fort Worth Texas buddy!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for sharing, Charles! I like the DFW area - been there a few times. Cheers! Tom

[@bobsc26]

I bought the solis barista perfetta in July for $239 new and have made 1-3 lattes everyday since then. A latte takes me 7-8 minutes from start to finish. Although I'm a newby, I'm very satisfied with the Solis. I was buying dark roast beans at first and finally switched to espresso roast and the espresso shot flavor has really smoothed out using espresso beans (Barefoot brand has been the best so far). 18 grams in, 45 grams out, 10-12 psi, in 26-30 seconds consistently. No leaks. I agree the extraction temperature is only 180F or so at the high setting, but that seems to be working fine for me.

[@King-bn3wr]

I got the Dedica because of your videos really pleased with it. Used the tip of pressing the steam button for a couple of seconds to get a warmer shot. Not actually used the steam wand yet as mainly drink americano. Happy Christmas Tom.

[@rofsjan]

Thank you. Your explanation is very clear. Thus I prefer your videos about coffee.

[@btxm6016]

really like how you compare both machine, show the differences and similarity.

[@j.t.1215]

I love these comparisons ❤ I think once you're into that type of money that you're probably into the bottom end of the next higher range of machines. I'd either go with the Dedica or jump up to the next level of machines. If I did that, I'd consult this channel first, because I know I'd find some great information.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I'd say Dedica, then Lelit Grace, then something dual boiler.

[@Alcanmedia]

You really made an amazing video that helped me choose my next machine. I happened to find this one for the same price as the dedica and the bambino. Thank you!

[@mikesrandomchannel]

I mean, it's three times the price here in Europe (150 vs 450 euros) so I'd hope it's slightly better! But I have a bottomless portafilter, K6 grinder and drink mostly cappucino now, and I find the Dedica to be immensely better than my previous Aeropress experience. So, not changing for the foreseeable to anything else. My absolute fave feature of the Dedica has to be the twin dose setting, tbh. I have one set right for pre-ground/pressurised basket and one for fresh ground/bottomless and it is such a great setup. I also find the panarello to be absolutely OK for cappucino, so it's a perfect machine right now.

[@annasonnenblume]

I own the dedica and i love it. Love your Channel too ❤

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That’s so kind of you to say, Anna, thank you! Enjoy using your machine!

[@chryseass.5143]

Hi Tom, I would say that the Solis is trying to go head to head with the Bambino Plus. The Solis may be trying to appeal on aesthetic grounds by looking a little more 'old school.' I didn't have enough time with my Dedica, at my other place, to get past the "frustration phase" in using it and now realize the significance between a 51 and a 54 mm basket. I shall persevere and buy better baskets for the Dedica. Btw, I have now had a chance to use the Sage/Breville Smart Grinder Pro and am happy with it. Now, I just have to find a good coffee roaster in my area and perfect my technique! I like your Christmas sweater, Tom -it has put me in the Holiday mood!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Haha, perfect! Super happy to have put you in the Christmas mood. 🎄 The Solis may be competing against the Bambino - but it's built much more solidly. More metal, and higher quality internal components. Glad you're liking your SGP, and I wish you lots of fun this holiday season perfecting your technique!

[@Glebean]

for a german you have a very Eastern US accent, almost michigany, keep up the good work brother 💪

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Haha, I’m not German. I’m from the Midwest. 👍🏻

[@Glebean]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner hahahahaha I dont know why I made the assumption you are German, either way keep up the midwestern work ethic love the content god bless💪

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thank you for watching, comments welcome! Product links in the description above 👆🏻 Subscribe for more coffee reviews & tips! www.youtube.com/@TomsCoffeeCorner?sub_confirmation=1

[@bbd1254]

You can actually program the temperature on the solis. I would be interested in seeing your readings after messing with that. There are directions in the manual as well as tutorials on KZbin. Would you be willing to make that video? 😊

[@luigidebonis-u9w]

I know the story of this machine very well. I’m from Mendrisio, Switzerland where the machine has been designed. The owner of the brand has sold for years, under Solis brand, machines from Breville. He is obsessed with Breville. Breville stopped to sell to Solis and Solis tried to design this machine that is in technology and shape a poor recall of Breville machines. They are produced in China at low cost. Solis is usual in this. They buy in China at low cost all their appliances and resell in europe with huge margin making believe the product is swiss. This machine is suffering with valves, tubes, electronic. In few words, a real chinese stuff. It’s better to spend something more with other brands (Delinghi, Breville, Sage) but having something that lasts more… Happy espresso to everyone :)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Wow, that's very interesting, thanks for sharing that story. I know it's made in China, and it doesn't get the best Amazon ratings, but the insides actually look to be good quality brass components. But yeah, I have had really good luck with Delonghi. My original Dedica is still going strong after 5 years. Cheers!

[@angelospinella1292]

Whoever told you that story lied to you. Have you actually ever used this espresso maker? Over the years this machine has been improved in its weak point... Now it's very very performing!

[@alinaqirizvi1441]

Also Chinese-made doesn't mean bad, at one point people associated Japanese-made products with low quality too!

[@Ledman301]

@@alinaqirizvi1441yes it does

[@NickAlbano253]

I have seen Hoon doing a similar test on the Infuser PID and getting more consistent results with different temperature changes. It's probably not a good comparison because the Infuser is more money, but it definitely brews at the correct temperature for espresso.

[@ramzez_uk]

Can you share a link?

[@anthonybasiliere9366]

I would be interested in the brewing temperature of the Dedica. Also, I always run a warm up shot with just water before hand. I’m guessing that makes a big difference.

[@Ghanshyam00000]

The nice machine looks great and also do work well

[@tanabota7]

素晴らしい動画をいつもありがとうございます。delonghiでエスプレッソ生活を始めようかと思っていたところに、solisの58mmポルタフィルターがとても魅力的に見えていました。まさに比べて欲しかった２つだったのでとても参考になりました！やはり初心者はstilosaあたりから始めるのが良さそうですかね。（本当はBreville Barista Express Impressが欲しかったですが、日本では売っていません🥲）

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Actually the Solis is 53mm, not 58mm. For that you'd need a Gaggia Classic Pro, for example.

[@tanabota7]

omg,旧式のsolisが58mmだったので、すっかり騙されていました。この変更はとても残念に思えます。Gaggiaの動画も見させて頂こうと思います:)@@TomsCoffeeCorner

[@hellsing0999999999]

Man, right now the Solis Barista Perfetta is going for 199 bucks, really hard to beat that price given all the features it has.

[@wynnsimpson]

That’s not the Plus price.

[@hellsing0999999999]

@@wynnsimpson the plus and barista perfetta are exactly the same machine. It seems at some point they changed the name of the listing but the box still says Barista Perfetta Plus

[@ebrahimahmed4460]

Quick question how do you clean after using dedica ? I wana know ..

[@vroegahh]

Sir, Thank you so much for this video! How do you remove the plastic insert? I have bought the machine but I dont understand how to remove it.

[@MaruelZain]

The temperature may have been too low because the flow rate was too fast (that shot seemed to take something like 15s to reach 2:1 no?) The thermoblock is designed around a specific flow rate and I don't think any PID would be able to cope with a lot of water passing through it too quickly, there just isn't enough time for the water to pick up enough heat from the block. If you still have the machine give it a try with a 30s or 40s shot and see if the temp is higher (would be great to know!) - I think that's the biggest problem of any thermo* system, the concept is great but it just doesn't have a lot of wiggle room for espresso.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hey Maruel, I can grind finer and try for a 40 second extraction to see how the temp curve is. I do think it will be a bit bitter then. But I think you might be on to something here. If I dose too little, or if the grind is off, and the extraction goes too fast, then even the best PIDs cannot hold steady. That extraction was 20s with the pre-infusion btw. Cheers!

[@ronnyskaar3737]

Dedica Arte is half the price and just as good.

[@frankief9445]

Thank you, it is a nice, straight to the point video, but according to most users comment about entry level machines that they have low durability and repairing is a pain which lack of parts and manufacturers’ support?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That seems to depend on the reviews. On Amazon.de the reviews are mixed, but on other platforms they are better. Maybe the first series of these machines had issues? Can anyone else comment on these machines' longevity?

[@hellsing0999999999]

BTW shoul've tested the Hot water dispenser feature, it gives you some really hot water (about 95c)

[@larrylitmanen9877]

In USA we do not have Solis, we have Casabrews CM5418 that looks identical, just a different brand probably made by the same manufacturer. Casabrews sells for $140 without any sales and Dedica is $244. It's not even close.

[@ringo.d]

Hey Tom, nice video! I own a dedica 685 and i tried a sage and gastroback but i am almost happy with the dedica. But the panarello from ranchillio is not easy to clean and not really handy. I heard from a new solis v2 maybe this will be better in case of heating? br from Ringo from Hamburg

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Sorry, I don't know about the Solis one. Just gotta clean the tip right away. Cheers!

[@lagplayer2007]

Hi Tom. First of all I'd like to thank you for all the effort you put into your videos. I bought the Dedica Arte used on amazon warehouse in "as new" condition but it didn"t work, the coffee doesn't drip. So I'm gonna send it back. If you can buy the Solis new for the same price as the Dedica Arte (around 240€), will you choose it over the Dedica or over the Bambino? Have you tried the temperature hacks that you provided in the Dedica video (blank shots and steam mode) to minimise the temp drop? Tom

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

The Perfetta feels like a better machine. It's heftier and uses higher quality brass components inside. Coffee is about the same, honestly.

[@paskoh]

How big is the portafilter? 58mm? Would be good to do a side by side comparison with the bambino plus. I wonder if the PID on the bambino is better

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I could do that. Yes, it is also 54mm. I am guessing the results will be similar, but we'll see.

[@NoZenith]

@TomsCoffeeCorner I'm excited for this comparison! I love that you Can pull hot water straight out of the steam wand on the Bambino Plus… I love that it can steam your milk without you having to touch it... The only selling point on this since it takes longer to heat up and longer to steam Is that it had the monometer and it's slightly cheaper... Curious how your comparison is going to go. You can't just get hot water from the Solis like with the Bambino and Bambino Plus can you?

[@Andre_1910]

I've been happy with my Dedica for 3 years, it's been doing great espresso every day. But I'm considering to up my espresso game to get a bottomless portafilter basket and a better grinder. I am torn - should I just mod my Dedica with a new portafilter and grinder or should I buy a Solis Barista Perfetta or maybe a Gaggia Classic Pro? What would you recommend? Btw I really love your videos which present so valuable information when on the espresso journey!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I think of those 3 options, the GCP has the best potential for great espresso. Cheers!

[@Andre_1910]

Thanks man! The GCP also seems like a very sturdy machine :) but what I also like about the Solis is that it also comes installed with a manometer👍

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@Andre_1910 Yes, I know. But the manometer seems to be off anyway. And it cannot compete with the Gaggia espresso wise. The GCP also seems to have better longevity, if you look at the Amazon reviews...

[@Andre_1910]

It also looks like a delight making espresso with the Gaggia Classic :) Cheers from Denmark!

[@chuckv8838]

I can tell you why there is the plastic insert. If using pressurized basket, the sage/breville has off center hole. Without plastic you get a mess shooting out portafilter. And I’ve heard the solis is made by Breville….not sure if true, but is 54mm. So plastic dissipates force in case using pressurized, if not remove.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Well, the Solis, the EC885, and the Bambino Plus all come with unpressurized baskets, so I don't know why the plastic insert is still there? Maybe it's a leftover design from earlier iterations?

[@chuckv8838]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner well in the US, the bambino, plus I believe used to come with just pressurize baskets. It now comes with both pressurized and non-pressurized I have one that’s two years old that I gave to my son that I think just had pressurized and I recently purchased another and it has both. But this is a U.S. breville not the European sage . Edit: just checked and here is US description E.S.E Pods, Pressurized and Non-Pressurized. So Here Solís comes with both types of baskets according to Amazon selling Seattle coffee gear.

[@NoZenith]

It's just for insulation, so as he States, the shot bypasses touching the metal of the portafilter so as to retain more heat

[@Paolo1064]

Solis is not made by B/S. The scope of the plastic insert is to reduce heat loss if you haven't enough time to preheat the portafilter. You can easily remove it...

[@chuckv8838]

@@Paolo1064 so those who think the only function is ‘heat’…have you used without the plastic and a pressurized basket? I think you’ll find another function other than temp.

[@tradycyjnegoleniezbartgee]

Great review, Tom 👌! Maybe you can do a temperature test with a steaming hack. I use the hack in my Delonghi Dedica thanks to your suggestion every time and it produces great espresso. I guess it's also possible in the Solis Barrista Perfetta Plus to use the steaming hack? Cheers! 😎👍

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That's a good idea, I will probably try that soon, and see how it turns out. Cheers! Tom

[@bbd1254]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner I would also love to see some solis hack/upgrade videos

[@meandmybergerpicard]

Thnx Tom 👍🤩🙏😻🌞🐕☕️🇳🇱🇩🇪

[@gigiscula8532]

You are the best

[@stevieg4201]

The Solis has a better steamer, but you can upgrade the DeLonghi steamer easy enough, for the money, I’ll always stick with my dedica

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

The Dedica has proved its longevity, too! If I had to choose today, I'd take the EC885.

[@dingnextstop]

Hi Tom, another interesting Video, what is the factory pressure setting for the new machine? Is it adjustable? Andrew

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi Andrew! The OPV does not look adjustable, but it's also hidden underneath a valve, and would be a pain to get to. So, I don't think it was designed with adjustment in mind. I don't know about the factory setting. The manometer often sits at 12 bar, at the same grind setting that gives 9-10 bar on other machines, so I think the manometer might need to be calibrated. Cheers, Tom

[@jfb112697]

gauge makes it ideal for a dimmer mod too

[@dunyamalibabakishizada7744]

Hey Tom. Could you please recommend me a machine around 400 bucks? Please no Gaggia.

[@rezartavdyli]

I love your videos expecially about the dedica, i just know dedica is good but this solis looks complete. Cheers Tom

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thank you so much! Yes, it is a nice quality machine, and if you can buy it for a good price, then it's easy to recommend.

[@rezartavdyli]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner if the price would be the same as dedica absolutely its worth it, i jave bought my dedica in offer 150euro so max 200euro its worth more that is not with that fake PID that they say its no worth to buy more expensive. Anyway this is my opinion dedica omly lacks the selenoid valve.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I myself prefer the lack of an OPV. I know no machine that knocks out the pucks as cleanly as the Dedica. That being said, the Solis is a nicer build, with room to work inside, in case something needs to be serviced. It is a nice machine, but suffers from the heat loss between the thermoblock and brew group, that almost all thermoblock machines suffer from.

[@rezartavdyli]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner That is true for me that is one reason i like dedica many lack that but still cost a lot, dedica doesnt. I would prefer they would do some better upgrades to dedica but not changing the price much.

[@pogromcywgniecen4666]

I'm curious how the comparative test between Delonghi Dedica and Gaggia Gran Prestige would turn out. Great material. Thanks

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hmm, well the Gaggia is a little boiler machine, so the results will be different than the Dedica with its thermoblock. I just recently got a Gaggia Viva Style in, which I plan to test soon. It is similar to the Gran Prestige.

[@thematrix7225]

Would you recommend the Solis over the base Bambino (not Plus as I don't care for the auto steaming)? The Solis has more features but seems to have some issues with pressure too high and temperature too low. Also I've seen people mention water leaking and holes in the puck. Have you experienced this? Thanks.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I think that Breville has better quality control, even though the Solis uses higher quality brass components in the machine. Therefore, I'd go the Breville route. I'd say the espresso between them is quite similar. The Solis use to have quality control issues a few years ago. It's probably better by now. Have fun with your choice.

[@progreact]

I understand that in the Solis you can program the temperature as low, medium or high. In other videos I have seen that the "high" temperature is the most appropriate for espresso, because it would be more stable at 90°C. When you measured the temperature, was it set to "high"? Greetings.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Sorry, but I don't recall. I have since sold this machine, so unfortunately, I cannot check.

[@Beioto]

Thank you for the video! Can you share at what pressure is the machine calibrated when pulling a shot or using the plug? And did you notice the type of OPV? Is it adjustable?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! I am not sure which pressure exactly, as the plug is not completely blind. It has a hole in the middle. Also, I have the feeling the manometer gauge. needs to be calibrated. Not sure if the OPV can be calibrated. I would have to open it up and locate it. Anyone else know that?

[@joaonunes782]

Yeah, I was wondering that also. Can't locate the opv inside also

[@Umadbro681]

Fabreware makes a pprettygood knockoff of the Delong’s and I have to say for 65 bucks, it’s an absolute beast, great shots from it. Could you review it? It’s also 20 bar.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Can you post a link?

[@samayganhar]

Thanks Tom for the great videos. I missed the steaming hack video mentioned in the comments. Can someone please direct me to the video or explain how to use steam hack to make a hotter shot. TIA!!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! Here you go! kzbin.info8GO1b94CgN4?feature=share

[@samayganhar]

Thank you Tom. You are as awesome as the content on your channel!

[@linglongchen5241]

is there way to adjust temperature ?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes, see page 129 of the manual: bit.ly/3HXjWQA

[@painpeace3619]

Good video.

[@charlesbelliard8278]

I’m using Brita filtered water at home. Wondering if I still need to use the brita filter included in the Solis barista.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

No, I don't think so. Just remember to change the filter often enough and you should be good to go.

[@charlesbelliard8278]

Thanks!@@TomsCoffeeCorner

[@casaraku1]

Sad to hear the temp was not there....

[@Sky.Sky.]

Great vids. Please help me dicide between a rancilio silvia pro x and a ascaso duo steel pid. I am just put off about heating time on silvia, can't wait 30 min in the morning. On the other side not sure about ascaso reliability, didn't heat much about that company. Thanks a lot

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! Thanks for the question. To be honest, I have not had a Silvia Pro X yet, but I have had the Ascaso Steel Duo Pro, and I used to own a Rancilio Silvia. These are two different machines. The Ascaso has 2 thermoblocks, while the Rancilio has two boilers. The Ascaso is a newer company, while Rancilio has been established longer. Aesthetically, I prefer the Ascaso, but that is subjective. Longevity wise, I am guessing the Rancilio will be better. Both machines benefit from at least 15 minute start up time, to get the brew head and portafilter warmed up. But you can likely put both on a wifi timer. Which do you like, looks wise? Which market are you in? Do you prefer thermoblocks over boilers? They are both expensive, so I would suggest you watch a bunch of YT videos from different creators on both machines. Curious, which one you choose! Tom

[@FrankWoodPhotography]

Is that an accurate temperature testing method?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

As accurate as I can do it. I put the probe on top of a fresh dose of coffee. It should at least exemplify whether or not the PID is controlling the water, and round about what temp. If you check my Ascaso Steel Duo video, where I did the same, you will see a rock solid flat temp curve.

[@kristoforusranandiasuliset3736]

If i wanna get 9 bar on solis barista perfetta while the pump pressure is 15 bar, is it depend on grind size of coffee ground?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes, that's true. The max pump pressure might be 15 bar, but it will be limited to less than that through an over pressure valve, maybe to 11-13 bar. But depending on your grind size, the extraction may never reach that pressure. Cheers!

[@kristoforusranandiasuliset3736]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner for grind size of coffee, it will be recommended to use grinding machine. But since i have timemore C3, espresso size is right at 7-8 clicks, but does it work well with solis barista perfetta plus?

[@DoctorrMetal]

Very nice review! Watched it despite that I just got a EC885 and I love it! Got it on sale for 200 eur. I want to upgrade to a bottomless portafilter and non pressurized basket, but can't find it anywere in europe. Do you know where to find it?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi! Well the EC885 is about equal to the Solis feature-wise, minus the 3 way solenoid valve. Nice purchase at 200! Which country are you in? I will see about a good portafilter suggestion.

[@chryseass.5143]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Tom , can you do the same for me ? I would be ordering from Amazon UK or Canadian site or . I think the Dedica definitely needs to have non pressurised baskets to get the most out of it. I had my old ones from Delonghi but I couldn't get them to fit into the Dedica portafilter. Any decent bottomless portafilter suggestions for Dedica and Bambino would also be appreciated!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@chryseass.5143 Hi there! Well, I would recommend the Normcore in Canada: amzn.to/3GfBd6E it is expensive, but very good, and comes with a non pressurized basket. Alternativelz, you could saw the bottom off the stock one yourself. It is made of aluminum, and easy to cut with a hacksaw. As for the Bambino, check out this one: amzn.to/3GcpjtV

[@DoctorrMetal]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thank you so much I live in Denmark :)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@DoctorrMetal Oh, I'd like to visit Denmark someday. I have heard good things about it. Anyway, can you order from Amazon.de? If so, I have had pretty good luck with Neouza products: amzn.to/3BZfEoi

[@thelikotube]

Can you do a “expert mode” in the Cecotec Cafelizia please!?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Do you mean with or without the manometer? Do you know of a bottomless PF for it?

[@thelikotube]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner I’m looking for a bottom less portafilter for it! Mine is without manometer, is it worse than the one with manometer?

[@espacesX]

Same Temp-Curve, when doing a pre-shot before the first including temp.-measurement? Finally you measure temperature of ground Coffee and water and Not the water only. If the water has reached the portafiler-walls thru the Puck the temperature is a Mix of fresh heated water, wet Puck and heated portafilter-walls.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I think this way is as accurate as I can hope for without one of those fancy measuring devices. It at least simulates the temp as the puck is absorbing the water. If I just measured the water itself without a load, I am guessing it would be even cooler.

[@espacesX]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner without a load the flow is higher and the water cools down faster at a thermoblock, even the ones with PID, that's right...

[@espacesX]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Characteristics of the diverse portafilter-machine-systems. 1. Single Boiler. No Heat exchanger. Better to Not use cold water and e.g. Volvic at room temperature instead. For Tea the recomnendation is to Put the BRITA® into the fridge. 2. Dual Boiler. Heat exchanger. The Mass of the System makes the Temperaturen of the brewing water stable. 3. Thermoblock. At portafilter Machines it Works different to usual Machines for Filter Coffee. Just the Wilfa Precision has a water Pump, while the flow is compared to a portafilter Machine very Low. The Ratio Right and Ratio Six e.g. come without water Pumps. All other beyond the Wilfa Precision Work according the Concept of a water percolator. The System is calibrated to optimal brew temperature Independent fron the water Temperaturen in the Tank, except the water in the Tank is too warm. At portafilter use Volvic stored for a while at room temperature. Cold/too cold water in the Tank cools down the Thermoblock and PID is No remedy. The flow defines how fast the Thermoblock is cooled down. Adjusting the Heating of the Thermoblock (PID) is No real remedy. Calcium and Sulfur/sulfides Levels of Volvic are perfect for Tea and Coffee. A BRITA® does Not optimized the Ph-value Just Filters Out Calcium. If Sulfur/sulfides is too high the Extraction deliveres too much of Something which should Not been extracted. At too Low sulfur/sulfides the acid-levels are Higher, less compensated. Just compare water of the Brand Volvic® and "Black Forrest®". The Levels of Minerals and Sulfur/Sulfides at "Black Forrest®" start to be too Low. "Black Forrest®" are perfect for Milk Powder and Baby meals.

[@ramzez_uk]

What the name of the basket you got for Solis ?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I got a Neouza aftermarket one with more holes.

[@ramzez_uk]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner I got that basket and indeed makes quite a difference compared with the original one. thank you

[@DavidHain-TX]

Is it possible your temps were low due to the Bar being so low? You should be around 9 but your pull showed 4ish!? Water was flying through that pull. Wouldn’t that make for cooler temps with a thermoblock?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I experimented several times and ended up with temps I think are on the lower side. The shots actually pull closer to 11-12 bar according to the gauge, but I think the gauge is off. I didn't know the pressure in this video, as I showed the extraction instead. Cheers!

[@DavidHain-TX]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Understood. Thanks.

[@mallow173]

Sorry one question, what's that Solis worth? went looking for it but can't find it here in Canada, well yet that is.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! It is available on the Canadian Amazon: amzn.to/3jYqwfX Let me know if you need any other info. Cheerrs! Tom

[@mallow173]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Cool and thanks for the link!

[@dominicortega9007]

Bambino Plus or Solis?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I'd go BP.

[@pfmusic1636]

I own the Solis. The espresso isn’t as good as my old Delonghi single boiler machine but the milk is way better. I’ll keep the machine as long as the steamer keeps working but I wouldn’t replace it. I like the manometer. It helps dial in your grind and tamp pressure. For an all in one machine I think the Breville Barista Express is the king. More money but a better machine.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I can agree with those sentiments. I also get a better espresso out of the ECP 3420 than the Solis. So far, I also get better espresso from the ECP than the BBE. I think the pressure on the BBE is too high, and I need to figure out how to adjust it. Thanks for commenting!

[@trebron32156]

I have actually owned three of the Solis machines. the first one lasted 10 month, the second 5 month, the third less than a month. Leaking , tripping the breaker, the dreaded rapid inner buttons rapid blinking, etc. SCG offered to swap out and send a 4th machine or full refund. I am going for the refund this time...

[@Canadastrong1]

I prefer Didica

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Me too, actually. Especially considering the price.

[@p4w318]

Hi, i have a dedica for 4-5y and im thinking about change. What would be best choice after dehlongi dedica? I have a eureca grinder, tamper, bottomless portafilter. Price max 200E.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! Well, I don't think you are going to find an upgrade for 200 euros. You could try an ECP35.31 however, if you wanna try a boiler machine with heated brew group.

[@sunnycharacter]

On this Solis, can you adjust the temp higher like the Dedica? Or could you pull a hot water shot before pulling your espresso shot?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes, you can choose low, med or high. You can of course also pull 1-2 empty shots beforehand. 👆🏻

[@sunnycharacter]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner cool, thanks!

[@PintoSixty]

The Solis gets too many bad reviews.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I am not sure why, but it seems the quality control was not very good during production.

[@user-cf5uf7vf2g]

plastic for fake creama, if i not remember wrong.

[@MarkasTZM]

How can you recommend at all with those temps?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I should add that my temp probe is 2 degrees off, so the extraction was probably flat around 80 degrees. Still too low. BUT, many cheaper machines suffer from too low a temperature. The thermoblock is just too far from the brew group...therefore the heat loss. Anyway, it all depends on what you want. Some will like this machine for its looks and ergonomics, and its great steaming. For cappuccinos, this machine works great. Cheers!

[@NoZenith]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Reading through all your responses and I still have One question, I've read reviews where people say the Bravo bambino plus is more temperature stable but can you put that in your comparison video?