#e-61

The Classic E-61 Grouphead (more photos - pin-board)

In 1961 Faema (Fabbrica Apparecchiature Elettromeccaniche e Affini) introduces a revolutionary new type of espresso machine that would come to largely replace the manual lever machine invented by Achille Gaggia in 1945. This new technology was the first espresso machine to make use of mechanical pump to deliver pressurized water with approximately 9 BAR to the group head, thus replacing the piston spring driven lever. In addition, Faema also introduced the first thermosyphon grouphead (E-61), which circulated hot water through the grouphead to help it maintain a more consistent temperature. The mechanical pump and E-61 grouphead combination, like the manual lever machine, still allowed for pre-infusion.

Even to this day, despite many newer technological advancements since 1961, the E-61 enjoys wide use in both domestic and commercial espresso machine markets. 

While there are many companies making domestic espresso machines, the Rocket Espresso, Quick Mill, Izzo Alex, EMC, Isomac, Vibiemme, and Bezzera and are among the best options. A number of these companies also not only manufacture espresso machines with the E-61 grouphead, but also a double boiler system and PID adjustable control over the boiler water temperature, which gives them maximum temperature control. These are ideal machines for 3rd-Wave home barista, for a dedicated single origin espresso machine, or for light commercial use.

I personally have years of experience pulling shots on an Isomac Tea II and Expobar Brewtus with PID. This brought me to greatly appreciate the E-61 grouphead, PID, and using the pre-infusion functionality to get the most of high quality freshly roasted single origin coffee. Its the unique temperature and pressure profile that the E-61 offers that sets it above the others in terms of flavor extraction.

These single group E-61 espresso machines area ideal for the home barista that wants to pull amazing SO-Espresso shots that highlight the nuanced flavor of the bean.

When compared with single group options by La Marzocco, Slayer, and Synesso, which sell for between $7,000 - $12,000, the single group e61 machines are much more affordable, costing between $1,250 and $4,500.

The most of advanced of the single group E-61 machines are the Rocket Espresso R 60V and the Vesuvius Dual Boiler Espresso, both of which are were the first on the market to offer the possibility of pressure profile the espresso shots. This is feature that up until now was reserved for machines that cost twice or even three times as much, but that is also key to maximizing the extraction.

There are also a number of manufacturers who offer 2-4 group commercial machines with the E-61 grouphead. in the North American market the Faema E61 Legend, Rocket Espresso RE S, and the La Pavoni Diamante are among the most accessible.

While espresso technology has seen many advancements in recent decades, the vintage E-61 grouphead continues preform well against the competition and has maintained a strong devoted cult-like following. I for one, am a passionate devotee to this low-tech approach and find it one of the best ways to pull amazing SO-Espresso shots.