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Permalink Reply by olivier dutil on April 4, 2011 at 5:19pm

the main thing about double boiler is that the steam boiler is different to the brew boiler . so basically steaming don t affect the temperature of you shot. But there is also other way to achieve the same effect ,witch is heat exchanger. In my opinion they two different way to achieve almost the same thing.

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Permalink Reply by Jason Duncan on April 5, 2011 at 7:57pm

What are you looking for the machine to do?  A shop machine?  Home machine? Catering?  A dual boiler machine typically has a much quicker recovery and also allows for better temperature stability in the brew cycle.  

 

 

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Permalink Reply by Brady on April 6, 2011 at 6:33am

Its a good question with many answers. There is a ton of info out there discussing the differences between double boiler and heat exchange machines.

 

From a usability standpoint, it comes down to control. You can achieve great temperature stability and control with the current crop of top-of-the-line machines of both types. You may get better temperature control with double boiler machines at the upper-mid-range price point, however there are several upper-mid-priced hx machines that will deliver great espresso in capable hands.

 

That last statement is really the most important part, by the way... "in capable hands".  I tend to think that if the hands are capable, the differences between good machines of both styles are not as big of a deal... and if the hands aren't capable, you have bigger problems to deal with.

 

Yes, the differences apply to machines of all sizes.

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Permalink Reply by Casey Trammel on April 6, 2011 at 8:19am

Go for a double boiler. You will have more stable heat in your shots, which is crucial. The cost will be worth it, if you are intending to create great espresso.

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