The Vetrano is the Coffeegeeks dream machine...once you try it there is no looking back!
Positive Product Points
Quality construction Rotary pump E61 group HX brew system Direct connect (drain kit available) Dual manometer guage 2 portafilters included Insulated boiler
Negative Product Points
Relatively expensive A little on the large side A lot of stainless steel to keep clean Direct connect may be a problem for some
Detailed Commentary
I have been into coffee for years but just recently decided to try my hand at espresso and cappuccino. My first venture was with the Rancilio Silvia (like most new enthusiasts) and I quickly got tired of the limitations of the Silvia. I live close to Chris Coffee and went to their shop to purchase the Silvia (which I did) but I also saw this beautiful machine they called the Vetrano. At first I felt there was no way I could justify spending that much for a coffee machine but a few weeks later there I was again returning the Silvia and picking up the Vetrano. To set up the Vetrano involves some plumbing but Chris Coffee supplies a very easy hookup system (John Guest fittings) that were surprisingly easy to hook up. Due to my relatively hard water I also picked up the water filter and softener kit ...also very easy to hook up. I added the Sirai pressure stat (as a $ 50.00 upgrade) which I think will add to the long lasting value of the unit. Once all hooked up the lever action E61 group is a pleasure to use. I was pulling excellent shots right off the bat. I simply follow the "keep it simple" rule of pulling a 6 oz. cooling flush followed by a 30 second rebound time ....then fire away. I must say I have never had a better straight espresso or cappuccino anywhere else. After a month or so of use I picked up the drain kit ($35 option) and had that functioning in minutes as well. I can't say enough of the convenience of not having to fill the unit with water or even emptying the drip pan.
In use I really found the machine very easy to work on. After a few weeks I felt the brew pressure was a bit low so after a quick call to Chris Coffee tech support I had the top off and adjusted the rotary pump up to 9 Bar. I set my machine up on a timer which allows me to have it all warmed up in the morning and then back on again for that after dinner straight espresso. I use a naked portafilter (made by Rancilio) which is a nice upgrade as well...really helps you see what is going on. Don't forget to hook any machine up to a quality surge strip.
All in all I highly recommend the quick Mill vetrano from Chris Coffee
Buying Experience
Chris Coffee is one of the best in the business. The folks at Chris Coffee really spent a lot of time with me both in person and on the phone. I also appreciate the fact that e-mail corrospondence is replyed to on a timely and professional manner. I think buying from a vendor who has an onsite repair shop with experienced technicians is one thing you can't take for granted from on line vendors.
