AscasoSteel DUO PID, Programmable Espresso Machine w/Volumetric Controls, Dual Thermoblock, 120V (Stainless Steel)

I recently acquired the Ascaso Steel DUO PID Programmable Espresso Machine, and let me tell you, it has taken my coffee game to an entirely new level! As a coffee enthusiast, I've tried numerous espresso machines, but this one truly stands out.Firstly, the design and build quality of the Ascaso Steel DUO PID are impeccable. The stainless steel body not only looks elegant and modern on my kitchen counter, but it also exudes durability. This machine feels sturdy and well-crafted, ensuring it will last for years.The standout feature of this espresso machine is undoubtedly the PID temperature control. With its precise temperature management, the Ascaso Steel DUO PID consistently delivers perfect espresso shots. I no longer have to worry about water temperature fluctuations affecting my coffee's taste. The result is a smooth, rich espresso with delightful crema that rivals high-end coffee shops.Another aspect that impressed me was the programmability. Customizing my espresso settings has never been easier. Whether I want a single or double shot, a short or long pour, or even experimenting with different coffee blends, the intuitive interface allows me to save my preferred settings easily. This feature is a game-changer, primarily catering to family and friends' unique preferences.The steam wand on this machine is fantastic too. It produces consistent steam power, allowing me to effortlessly froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos. The wand is also easy to clean, which is a bonus for maintaining hygiene and preventing flavor contamination between drinks.I appreciate that Ascaso offers excellent customer support as well. When I had a few questions about the machine's maintenance, their support team was prompt and knowledgeable, guiding me through the process with clear instructions.While this espresso machine has a higher price tag, I can confidently say it's worth every penny. The Ascaso Steel DUO PID is not just a coffee maker; it's an investment in a superior coffee experience right at home. I've saved money and time, as I no longer need to visit coffee shops to get my perfect cup.In conclusion, if you're serious about your coffee and crave the flexibility to create your brew just as you like it, I highly recommend the Ascaso Steel DUO PID Programmable Espresso Machine. Its top-notch build quality, PID temperature control, programmability, and stellar customer support make it the ultimate espresso companion. Make the switch, and you won't be disappointed!

First up, this didn't come with the adapter to plug into a 15 amp outlet, and none of my local hardware stores had it. Make sure you buy one with the machine unless you already have 20 Amp outlets in your kitchen.Now the review: machine was packed well. Had a nicer tamper than most reviewers suggested, though still not self leveling. Came with a blind basket as well as a pressurized, pod, and 7g and 14g. None will fit a proper tamper. No milk frothing jug was a bummer as well.This machine does a fantastic job at espresso. The included portafilter has a very nice wood handle, and fits my Pullman 17-19g basket just fine. I've had no problem with back to back shots, and the steam is the nicest I've ever used, even running on a 15amp circuit. Latte art is easier than ever.It looks incredible as well. The black fits well with my black Niche Zero and I love the angles and the chrome drip tray.

I’m an industrial designer of 18yrs and a home barista/espresso enthusiast of 12yrs. I did a ton of research before buying this machine and overall I’m very satisfied with it. I’m also disappointed with several elements of the design and details in its function. I bought a black Steel Uno and have been using it 1-2 times a day for over a month now. Given the price of the machine I think it deserves a critical review.I may write a more detailed review later, but for now here are my thoughts on it:The Good:+ aesthetically beautiful machine.+ robust build quality with high quality materials and finishes. The engraved wood handles are a really nice touch of warmth to an overall utilitarian looking machine.+ solid tactile switches.+ side fill water container is a perfect feature for under cabinet use, and the reservoir is big compared to other machines.+ functionally, the drain tray is well designed and easy to clean.+ beautifully crafted stainless steel portafilter, with visual alignment queues to attach to the group head. Solid fit up, and easy to clean. I wanted a bottomless, but after using the stock one I’m fully satisfied.+ PID and pressure gauge are well integrated and essential for dialing consistent shots.+ OPV valve adjustment is easy and yields consistent results.+ super fast heat up time, just over one minute.+ great steam wand design, and I appreciate the valve control.+ quiet operation compared to other machines.+ the machine was well tuned right out of the box.+ the machine comes with a suite of baskets and a back flush blank.+ most importantly, it produces great quality shots that can be accurately dialed to your preferences.The Bad:+ the Ascaso lettering on the sheet metal case is cheap looking and redundant since it’s also embossed on the group head and printed on the pressure valve. I removed the letters and the machine now looks much more sophisticated.+ all the LED lights (indicator, PID, and brew) are way too bright, like blinding. They cannot be dimmed. I almost returned the machine because of this.+ the brew lights are directly reflected in the mirrored stainless steel drip tray cover. This is a design oversight.+ underwhelming owners manual that is confusing at points and does not cover several machine functions. I had to find a thread online to tune the OPV. It also doesn’t explain the PID functions, only how to change them.+ PID controller interface is not straightforward to use. I often go back through the menu to check if the new settings took effect.+ the brew switch does not remember the program times. If you want to control the clock you must hold the switch for the entire duration of the brew, otherwise the machine will decide. It doesn’t do a bad job of automatically sensing the brew time, but it is irregular and that is not how the switch function is advertised. This could be the chromatic setting in the PID, but it’s not clear.+ the time between switching from espresso temp to steam temp can be frustrating at first, a little over a minute. However I discovered a way to get the machine to cool down very rapidly, so now I steam first and then brew espresso. There is no down time with this method.+ the indicator lights in heating up the brew pump versus the steam pump are inconsistent. The brew warm up actively displays the real time temperature on the PID and only the brew switch light blinks until the temperature is reached. This looks and feels good. On the other hand during the steam warm up, the PID blinks and only displays the final temperature. The brew button and steam button lights are also blinking. There is so much blinking going on that it looks like the machine is throwing an error code. To add to the cacophony they are also blinking out of sync. It’s an unpleasant visual experience.+ the steam wand quits after 2 minutes of use. Normally I’m only making 2 back to back drinks in the morning so it doesn’t matter, but in the rare case I’m making more than 2 steamed drinks it’s infuriating.Comments:My frustrations with the time between steam and brew would have been eliminated by the Duo, albeit the 2 minute cutoff, but I was not interested in updating my kitchen electric to accommodate it. I would recommend spending the extra money for the Duo if you can, but I certainly would not avoid purchasing the Uno if you cannot.I was able to resolve the brightness of the LEDs with tinted black stickers that I found on Amazon.I find all the included baskets totally unnecessary. I use a 22 gram IMS competition basket, and brew with a puck screen. The puck screen is great for keeping the group head clean, and also useful if you are not completely filling the basket with coffee as I do. I would definitely recommend a nanotechnology basket for everyone everywhere making espresso. It’s the cheapest and most impactful upgrade to make on any machine.I did read a few nightmare stories about Ascaso’s US warranty department, so I bought a 4 year extended warranty. If anything happens to this machine I will update this review.Ultimately I’m very pleased with my Steel Uno and love my time with it each morning. It heats up very quickly, produced excellent results right out of the box and tunes easily. I also think it’s the best looking machine in its category, and look forward to spending many years together. Its cost is higher in comparison to other machines in its category, but I think it’s a well thought out machine and superior in many ways. I should mention that my Uno is paired with a Rocket Faustino 3.1 grinder, which I am also fond of, and also have some feedback on. More on that another time..Steel Uno: 4 out of 5 stars

Was debating between the ROCKET or this, but the aesthetics of this machine caught my eyes more. Been using it over a month, the machine quality is very NICE, I haven't had a problem with it so far. I was debating between white or black one, glad I got the black (black color with the wood accents look really nice in person) Machine is very easy to use, there's a full guide of how to set up your shot on youtube. Espresso come out consistently (if prepped correctly). overall no regrets buying this machine def recommending to others.