I recently got the VST 18 and 22g baskets in and have been working with them a little. I also just recently installed a La Marzocco GB5 2 group Paddle. The only experience I have with pre-infusion was on a Synesso Hydra a couple years ago. I have a couple questions and welcome any other advice or comments related to the subjects.
With the VST baskets, I am pulling Hairbender at about a 20g dose. In the 18g baskets, it leaves very little (if any) room to the screen. With the 22g baskets, there is a lot of room to the screen. Is it possible to have too much room? What kind of experience does anyone have using the VST baskets? I notice right away that the quality seems to have a wider range for a good to great shot. But, I have yet to pull a shot that has made me entirely confident in the switch. Any thoughts?
With the Paddle and pre-infusion, it seems like I can let it run for 20 seconds before the first drops come out. Is there a desired pre-infusion time on these machines? With the Synesso, It seems like within 5-7 seconds or so the first few drops would come and we would activate the pump. The espresso we pulled was incredible. Any advice for pre-infusing on these?
Also, we are using Hairbender 5-10 days out. We are pulling, generally, 1.5oz shots +- .25 oz. I love finding opportunities to learn and grow as a barista and trainer and welcome any constructive comments you may have! Thanks in advance!!!
phil
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