Andreja Premium Evo

Introduction

Brief history of Quick Mill

Quick Mill, an Italian espresso machine manufacturer, has been crafting high-quality coffee equipment for decades. The company’s roots in stainless steel fabrication have contributed to their reputation for building durable, well-designed espresso machines. Quick Mill’s commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering is evident in their product line, including the Andreja Premium Evo.

Overview of the Andreja Premium Evo market position

In the competitive landscape of prosumer espresso machines, the Andreja Premium Evo occupies a unique position. It’s a heat exchanger machine that offers commercial-grade features in a compact, home-friendly package. This machine sits comfortably in the mid-range of prosumer machines, offering a compelling balance of performance and value for serious home baristas.

The Andreja Premium Evo is particularly well-suited for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate hands-on control and have a preference for milk-based drinks. Its heat exchanger system allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, making it an attractive option for those who want to craft cafe-quality beverages at home without the higher price tag of some dual-boiler machines.

Specifications and Technical Details

Dimensions and weight

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo is designed to fit comfortably in most home kitchens:

• Dimension (WxDxH): 286 x 446 x 399 mm 
• Weight: 23 kg 

Boiler specifications

The Andreja Premium Evo features a robust boiler system:

• 1.8-litre copper boiler with TEA coating and insulation
• Heat exchanger system for simultaneous brewing and steaming
• 1400W heating element for quick heat-up and recovery times

The TEA coating (Ternary Eco Alloy) helps prevent metal leaching into the water, while the insulation improves energy efficiency and temperature stability.

Pump type

The machine is equipped with an Ulka 52-watt vibratory pump, which offers several advantages:

• Brass ends for increased durability and reduced risk of leaks
• Thermal overload protection to prevent pump damage
• Pulsar installed to reduce noise and pressure fluctuations

Electrical requirements

The Andreja Premium Evo is designed for home use:

• Voltage: 240V
• Amperage: 15 Hz
• Wattage: 1400W

This configuration allows the machine to be used with standard household outlets, making it accessible for most home baristas without requiring special electrical setups.

Design and Build Quality

Materials used

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo showcases exceptional build quality:

• Exterior: Polished #304 food-grade stainless steel shell and frame
• Boiler: Copper with TEA coating for durability and heat retention
• Group head: Commercial-grade E61 in chrome-plated brass
• Portafilters: Chrome-plated brass with stainless steel baskets
• Drip tray: Stainless steel with a generous 46-ounce capacity

The use of high-quality materials throughout the machine contributes to its longevity and performance.

Aesthetic considerations

The Andreja Premium Evo boasts a timeless design that would complement any kitchen:

• Sleek, polished stainless steel exterior with graceful curved edges
• Deep blue manometers for boiler and brew pressure, adding a touch of elegance
• Custom-made knobs for steam and hot water control
• Chrome-plated E61 group head and lever, creating a classic look
• Hinged cover for easy access to the water reservoir

The machine’s design strikes a balance between professional aesthetics and home-friendly appeal.

Footprint and space requirements

Despite its robust build, the Andreja Premium Evo is relatively compact:

• Fits under most kitchen cabinets 
• Adjustable stainless steel feet for leveling and slight height adjustments

The machine’s dimensions make it suitable for most home kitchens, though it’s worth noting that you’ll need additional space for a grinder and other accessories.

Core Functionality

Espresso extraction process

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo utilizes several key features for optimal espresso extraction:

• E61 group head: Known for excellent temperature stability and automatic pre-infusion
• Semi-automatic operation: Allows for manual control over shot timing
• Lever-actuated brewing: Provides a tactile, professional experience
• Adjustable expansion valve: Enables fine-tuning of brew pressure

The combination of these elements allows home baristas to achieve consistent, high-quality espresso shots.

Temperature stability data

While the Andreja Premium Evo doesn’t feature PID temperature control, it maintains temperature stability through:

• Thermosyphon circulation system: Keeps brewing water at a consistent temperature
• Insulated copper boiler: Reduces heat loss and improves energy efficiency
• Heat exchanger design: Allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming

Users may need to perform cooling flushes to manage temperature, especially after the machine has been idle for some time.

Pressure profiling capabilities

The Andreja Premium Evo offers some flexibility in pressure control:

• Adjustable expansion valve: Accessible from the top of the machine
• Brew pressure gauge: Allows for real-time monitoring during extraction
• Pre-infusion: Automatic pre-infusion via the E61 group head

While not a true pressure profiling machine, these features allow users to experiment with different pressure settings to optimize their espresso.

Steam wand performance metrics

The steam capabilities of the Andreja Premium Evo are impressive:

• Powerful steam production: Achieves over 1.5 bar of steam pressure
• No-burn, fully articulated steam wand: Allows for comfortable milk frothing
• Quick recovery time: Thanks to the 1400W heating element
• Interchangeable steam tips: Comes with both 2-hole and 4-hole options

These features make the Andreja Premium Evo particularly well-suited for those who enjoy milk-based drinks, allowing for the creation of silky microfoam for latte art.

User Experience

Learning curve

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo is a semi-automatic prosumer machine, which means:

• It requires some skill and knowledge to operate effectively
• Users need to learn to manage temperature through cooling flushes
• Dialing in the perfect shot involves experimenting with grind size, dose, and timing
• Mastering milk steaming takes practice, especially with the powerful steam wand

While not as plug-and-play as super-automatic machines, the learning process can be rewarding for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy hands-on brewing.

Daily operation workflow

A typical workflow with the Andreja Premium Evo includes:

• Turning on the machine and allowing 25-30 minutes for warm-up
• Performing a cooling flush if the machine has been idle
• Grinding coffee and preparing the portafilter
• Pulling the shot manually using the lever
• Steaming milk (if desired) for milk-based drinks
• Regular cleaning and maintenance tasks

The three-position power switch and LED indicators help users track the machine’s status throughout the process.

Ease of adjustments and customisation

The Andreja Premium Evo offers several ways to customize the brewing experience:

• Adjustable expansion valve: Allows for easy brew pressure changes
• Interchangeable steam tips: 2-hole and 4-hole options for different steaming preferences
• Large cup clearance: Accommodates various cup sizes and allows for scale use
• Optional plumbing kit: Can be connected directly to a water line if desired

These features provide flexibility for users to tailor the machine to their preferences and skill level.

Maintenance and Longevity

Regular cleaning requirements

To keep the Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo in top condition, users should follow these cleaning routines:

• Daily: Wipe down the exterior and steam wand, empty the drip tray
• After each use: Backflush with water, clean the portafilter and baskets
• Weekly: Backflush with espresso machine cleaner
• Monthly: Clean the shower screen and group gasket
• As needed: Descale the machine (frequency depends on water hardness)

The machine comes with a backflush disc and cleaning brush to facilitate these tasks.

Long-term maintenance needs

For long-term reliability, the Andreja Premium Evo may require:

• Periodic replacement of wear items like group gaskets and shower screens
• Occasional adjustment of the expansion valve to maintain optimal brew pressure
• Inspection and possible replacement of steam and water valve seals
• Potential pump replacement after several years of use (the 52-watt Ulka pump is designed for longevity)

The machine’s design allows for relatively easy access to most components, which can be beneficial for home maintenance or professional servicing.

Availability of parts and service

Quick Mill has a reputation for producing machines with readily available parts:

• Many components are standard E61 group parts, widely available in the market
• Quick Mill offers a comprehensive range of replacement parts
• The machine’s popularity means that many technicians are familiar with servicing it

Users should be aware that specialized repairs might require sending the machine to an authorized service center, which could result in downtime.

Performance in Various Scenarios

Single shots vs. double shots

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo performs well with both single and double shots:

• Comes with both single and double spouted portafilters
• Includes single and double baskets for versatility
• The E61 group head ensures consistent extraction for both shot types
• Large 1.8-litre boiler provides ample stability for back-to-back shots

Users report that the machine excels particularly with double shots, which are more common in modern espresso preparation.

Light vs. dark roasts

The Andreja Premium Evo can handle a range of roast profiles:

• Temperature stability allows for consistent extraction of light roasts
• Adjustable expansion valve helps optimize pressure for different roast levels
• Manual control over pre-infusion (via the E61 lever) can help with light roast extraction
• Dark roasts are easily managed due to the machine’s forgiving nature

While the lack of PID temperature control might make very light roasts more challenging, most users find the machine adaptable to various roast profiles.

Performance with milk-based drinks

This machine truly shines when it comes to milk-based beverages:

• Powerful steam production allows for quick and efficient milk texturing
• The heat exchanger system enables simultaneous steaming and brewing
• No-burn steam wand with articulation makes milk frothing comfortable
• Choice between 2-hole and 4-hole steam tips caters to different preferences and skill levels
• Quick recovery time means multiple milk drinks can be prepared in succession

The Andreja Premium Evo’s steam capabilities make it an excellent choice for latte and cappuccino enthusiasts, allowing for the creation of silky microfoam suitable for latte art.

Comparative Analysis

Objective comparison with similar machines in its class

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo competes with several notable machines in the prosumer heat exchanger category:

• Rocket Appartamento: Similar in price and features, but with a more compact footprint
• ECM Mechanika V Slim: Offers similar build quality but with a rotary pump
• Profitec Pro 500: Features PID temperature control at a higher price point‍
• Lelit Mara X: More compact with innovative temperature management, but smaller boiler

Compared to these machines, the Andreja Premium Evo stands out for its:

• Larger boiler capacity (1.8 litres)
• Powerful 1400W heating element
• Inclusion of both 2-hole and 4-hole steam tips
• Easy access to the expansion valve for pressure adjustments

However, it lacks PID temperature control found in some competitors and uses a vibratory pump instead of a rotary pump.

Price-to-feature ratio

The Andreja Premium Evo offers excellent value:

• Commercial-grade E61 group head
• Large, insulated copper boiler with TEA coating
• Durable stainless steel construction
• Powerful steam performance
• Includes quality accessories (tamper, multiple portafilters and baskets)

While it may not have some advanced features like PID control or a rotary pump, the Andreja Premium Evo provides a robust set of features that cater well to its target market of serious home baristas and small office settings.

The machine’s build quality and potential longevity also contribute to its value proposition, as it’s designed to last many years with proper maintenance.

Long-term Ownership Considerations

Resale value

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo tends to hold its value well for several reasons:

• Durable construction and high-quality components
• Reputation for reliability and longevity
• Consistent demand in the prosumer espresso machine market
• Timeless design that doesn’t quickly become outdated

While exact resale values can vary, well-maintained Andreja Premium Evo machines often retain a significant portion of their original price, making them a sound investment for coffee enthusiasts.

Warranty information

Quick Mill offers a warranty on the Andreja Premium Evo, though specifics may vary by retailer:

• Typically, a 2-year parts and labour warranty
• Some retailers may offer extended warranty options
• Warranty usually requires purchase from an authorized dealer

It’s important to note that the warranty may be voided by improper use, unauthorized modifications, or failure to perform regular maintenance.

User community and support resources

The Andreja Premium Evo benefits from a strong user community and support network:

• Active online forums dedicated to Quick Mill machines and espresso in general
• Numerous video tutorials and guides available on platforms like YouTube
• Detailed user manuals and documentation provided by Quick Mill
• Support from specialty coffee retailers who often offer advice and troubleshooting

This robust ecosystem of information and support can be invaluable for new owners learning to use their machine, as well as for troubleshooting and maintenance over the long term.

The availability of user experiences and shared knowledge also contributes to the machine’s long-term value, as owners can often find solutions to issues or ideas for optimizing their brewing process from the community.

Potential Limitations

Scenarios where the machine might not be ideal

While the Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo is a versatile and capable machine, there are some situations where it might not be the best fit:

• Limited counter space: It may be too large for very small kitchens.
• Frequent travelers: The machine’s weight and need for regular use make it less suitable for those who are often away from home.
• Multiple user households with varying preferences: The lack of programmable user profiles might be inconvenient in this scenario.
• Light roast enthusiasts: While capable of brewing light roasts, the lack of PID temperature control may make it challenging to achieve optimal extraction consistently.
• High-volume environments: Despite its commercial-grade components, it’s not designed for cafe-level output. A commercial machine would be more suitable for high-volume settings.
• Beginners seeking simplicity: The learning curve might be steep for those new to espresso, who might prefer a more automated machine.
• Those sensitive to noise: The vibratory pump, while improved, is still louder than rotary pump machines.
• Users requiring precise temperature control: Without PID, temperature surfing may be necessary, which some users might find inconvenient.
• Those who prioritize energy efficiency: The large boiler and lack of programmable power-saving modes mean it consumes more energy when left on for extended periods.
• Households with very hard water: While descaling is possible, frequent descaling needs might make ownership more demanding in areas with very hard water.

Understanding these potential limitations can help prospective buyers determine if the Andreja Premium Evo aligns with their specific needs and circumstances.

Consumer Feedback Summary

Overview of user reviews

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo generally receives positive feedback from users.

• Appreciation for the build quality and durability
• Satisfaction with the espresso quality and consistency
• Praise for the powerful steam capabilities
• Positive comments on the aesthetic appeal and classic design

Many users report that the machine has met or exceeded their expectations, particularly those upgrading from entry-level machines or transitioning from cafe-bought coffee to home brewing.

Common praise and criticisms

Praise:

• Excellent build quality: Users frequently commend the solid construction and use of high-quality materials.
• Impressive steam power: Many reviewers highlight the machine’s ability to produce silky microfoam quickly.
• Consistency: Users report reliable shot-to-shot consistency once the machine is dialed in.
• Aesthetic appeal: The classic design and polished stainless steel finish receive numerous compliments.
• Longevity: Several long-term owners praise the machine’s durability and continued performance over years of use.

Criticisms:

• Learning curve: Some users find the initial setup and learning process challenging, particularly those new to prosumer machines.
• Lack of PID: A few reviewers express a desire for more precise temperature control.
• Size: Some users mention that the machine is larger than expected and takes up significant counter space.
• Warm-up time: The 25-30 minute warm-up period is noted as inconvenient by some users.
• Noise level: While improved, the vibratory pump is still louder than some users prefer.

The majority of users seem to feel that the Andreja Premium Evo offers good value for money and meets their needs for high-quality home espresso. The criticisms tend to be outweighed by the positive aspects for most reviewers, with many stating they would recommend the machine to others.

Conclusion

Recap of key points

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo stands out as a robust, well-built heat exchanger espresso machine that offers a compelling package for serious home baristas:

• Solid construction with high-quality materials, including a stainless steel body and copper boiler
• Commercial-grade E61 group head for temperature stability and consistent extraction
• Powerful steam capabilities, making it excellent for milk-based drinks
• Heat exchanger system allowing for simultaneous brewing and steaming
• Good value for money in the prosumer espresso machine market
• Potential for longevity with proper maintenance

Potential buyers should consider:

• The learning curve associated with a semi-automatic machine
• The lack of PID temperature control
• The size and weight, which may not suit all kitchen spaces
• The warm-up time required before use

Suggestions for further research

For those considering the Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo, we recommend:

• Compared with other heat exchanger machines in a similar price range, such as the Rocket Appartamento or ECM Mechanika V Slim.
• Researching PID-equipped machines like the Profitec Pro 500 to determine if precise temperature control is a priority.
• Watching video tutorials on using heat exchanger machines to understand the workflow and potential challenges.
• Visiting a specialty coffee shop or showroom to see the machine in person and, if possible, test it.
• Consider your long-term coffee goals and whether this machine aligns with them.
• Evaluating your kitchen space and ensuring you have room not just for the machine, but also for a quality grinder and accessories.
• Assessing your water quality and researching water treatment options if necessary.

For those willing to invest time in learning the Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo nuances, it can provide a rewarding home barista experience. However, as with any significant purchase, we encourage thorough research and consideration of individual needs and preferences before making a decision.