A "full" or complete E61 group refers to the "leva" versions of the machines - they have the E61 grouphead, the pre-infusion chamber (the chrome cylindrical shape below the grouphead) and the manual lever for operating the brew cycle on the right side of the group. The machines that only have the E61 grouphead have just that, the grouphead, but lack the pre-infusion chamber and the manual lever (they have a button or a keypad of some sort instead).

All of the machines such as Giotto, Domobar super, ... have a very good reputation. I like the looks of the Giotto, the quality of its finish (the best of the three in my opinion) as well as the no-burn steam wand but I really do not care for its small and difficult to empty drip tray. The Vibiemme is bigger than the other two, the biggest boiler and therefore probably the best steaming power and it also has a huge drip tray. The brew pressure gauge is another plus of the Vibiemme. However, I don't like the feel of its steam valve operation. The Valentina steam valve has a better feel than the Vibiemme in my opinion but I like the no-burn wand of the Giotto better. The drip tray on the Valentina is of decent size, which is good.


from temesblog.blogspot.com (Espresso Passione)