S1 Dream T

Introduction

Brief history of La Spaziale

La Spaziale, an Italian espresso machine manufacturer, was established in 1969, in Bologna, by experts in the coffee industry. With over five decades of experience, the company has become a significant player in the espresso equipment market. La Spaziale is recognized as the fifth largest manufacturer of espresso machines in Italy. The company has a strong presence in established espresso markets such as Italy, USA, Brazil, and Romania, and its products are distributed in over 70 countries worldwide.

La Spaziale is known for its commitment to quality and innovation, incorporating 100% Italian-made components in their machines to ensure excellence. This dedication to craftsmanship has helped the company build a reputation for producing reliable, high-performance espresso equipment for both commercial and home use.

Overview of the S1 Dream-T 

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T occupies a unique position in the high-end home espresso machine market. It sits in a competitive space alongside other prosumer machines like the Rocket Appartamento, ECM Classika, and Profitec Pro 300.

The S1 Dream-T distinguishes itself in this market segment by offering features typically found in commercial machines, such as:

• Dual boiler system
• PID temperature control for both boilers
• Volumetric dosing
• Touch screen interface
• Programmable user profiles

These features position the S1 Dream-T as a bridge between professional-grade equipment and home usability. It’s designed to appeal to serious home baristas who demand café-quality espresso and milk-based drinks, as well as small café owners looking for a compact yet capable machine.

The ‘T’ in S1 Dream-T stands for ‘tank fed’, indicating that this model uses a built-in water reservoir rather than requiring a direct plumb connection. This feature enhances its suitability for home use, offering flexibility in placement and ease of installation.

In the prosumer espresso machine market, the La Spaziale S1 Dream-T is often praised for offering excellent value for money. It provides many features found in more expensive machines at a relatively accessible price point, making it an attractive option for those looking to upgrade their home espresso setup without venturing into the highest price brackets of the market.

Specifications and Technical Details

Dimensions and weight

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T is designed to be compact enough for home use while still maintaining commercial-grade capabilities. Its dimensions are:

• Height: 38.5 cm
• Width: 41.5 cm
• Depth: 41.5 cm
• Weight: 28 kg

These measurements make the S1 Dream-T suitable for most kitchen countertops, striking a balance between functionality and space efficiency. The substantial weight of 28 kg indicates a robust build quality and stability during operation.

Boiler specifications

The S1 Dream-T features a dual boiler system, a key selling point for this machine:

• Boiler volume:  0.45L + 2.5L (3L internal)
• Boiler size: 1.2 litres

Both boilers are equipped with PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control, allowing for precise and stable temperature management. The coffee boiler is made of nickel-plated brass, while the steam boiler is constructed from stainless steel.

Pump type

The S1 Dream-T utilizes a vibratory pump, which is known for its reliability and relatively quiet operation. This pump type is common in home espresso machines and is capable of producing the 9 bars of pressure required for espresso extraction.

Electrical requirements

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T is designed to be versatile in terms of power requirements:

• Voltage: 230V 
• Amperage: 50Hz
• Wattage: 2200W

These specifications highlight the S1 Dream-T’s positioning as a prosumer machine, offering commercial-grade features in a package designed for home use.

Design and Build Quality

Materials used

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T is constructed with a focus on durability and aesthetic appeal. The machine features:

• Stainless steel front and rear panels, providing a sleek, professional look and resistance to corrosion
• A sturdy steel frame, contributing to the machine’s substantial 28 kg weight
• Copper and brass internal components, known for their excellent heat conductivity and longevity
• A glass touch screen interface, offering both style and functionality

The use of these high-quality materials reflects La Spaziale’s commitment to producing machines that can withstand the rigors of frequent use while maintaining their appearance over time.

Aesthetic considerations

The S1 Dream-T’s design strikes a balance between professional functionality and home-friendly aesthetics:

• Available in Metallic Black or Red, allowing users to choose a finish that complements their kitchen decor
• The touch screen display adds a modern touch to the otherwise classic espresso machine design
• LED lights positioned near the group head illuminate the workspace, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal

The machine’s overall design is reminiscent of commercial espresso machines, which may appeal to home baristas looking for a professional-grade experience in their kitchen.

Footprint and space requirements

The S1 Dream-T is compact enough to fit on most kitchen countertops. However, there are some space considerations to keep in mind:

• The machine requires some additional clearance above for filling the water tank and accessing the cup warming tray
• Side clearance may be needed for operating the steam wand and accessing the hot water spout
• The front-loading water reservoir is a space-saving feature, allowing the machine to be placed under cabinets more easily than top-loading models

While the S1 Dream-T is more compact than many commercial machines, it still has a significant presence on a countertop. Potential buyers should measure their available space carefully to ensure a good fit.

Difference of Dream (Tank Fed Version) and Dream (Mains Fed)

S1 DREAM-T (Tank Fed)

• Built-in vibration pump
• Internal 3 liter tank
• Possibility of excluding the boiler heating function
• Economy function (maximum absorption 1200W)

S1 DREAM (Mains Fed)

• Volumetric pump
• Direct connection to water mains
• Possibility of excluding the boiler heating function
• Economy function (maximum absorption 1250W)
• Digital pressure sensor for water mains
• Digital pressure sensor for pump
• Electronic pre infusion

Core Functionality

Espresso extraction process

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T is designed to deliver high-quality espresso consistently.

• 53mm portafilter: While smaller than the standard 58mm, this size is designed to create a deeper coffee puck, potentially improving extraction
• Volumetric dosing: Allows for precise and repeatable shot volumes
• PID temperature control: Ensures stable brewing temperatures for consistent extraction
• Vibratory pump: Capable of producing the standard 9 bars of pressure for espresso extraction

The machine allows for both programmed volumetric shots and manual control, catering to different user preferences and experimentation.

Temperature stability data

Temperature stability is crucial for consistent espresso extraction, and the S1 Dream-T excels in this area:

• Dual boiler system with independent PID controls for both brew and steam boilers
• The brew boiler temperature is adjustable to one degree Fahrenheit precision
• Minimal temperature fluctuation during extraction, contributing to shot consistency
• The PID system allows for temperature adjustments to suit different coffee roasts and personal preferences

Pressure profiling capabilities

While the S1 Dream-T doesn’t offer advanced pressure profiling like some higher-end machines, it does provide some control over the extraction process:

• Pre-infusion chamber can be installed (sold separately) to allow for low-pressure pre-infusion, similar to E61 group machines
• The touch screen interface allows for some customization of pre-infusion time, though not pressure

Steam wand performance metrics

The S1 Dream-T’s steam capabilities are a significant strength:

• 1.2 liter steam boiler provides ample steam power for milk-based drinks
• Swivel stainless steel steam arm for easy maneuverability
• 4 hole steam tip for efficient milk texturing
• Ability to steam milk for a latte in 20-30 seconds, indicating powerful steam performance
• The steam boiler temperature can be adjusted via the touch screen interface

The powerful steam performance, combined with the dual boiler system, allows for simultaneous steaming and brewing, significantly speeding up the drink preparation process.

User Experience

Learning curve

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T strikes a balance between advanced features and user-friendliness:

• Touch screen interface: While initially intimidating to some, most report that it becomes intuitive after a short period of use
• Volumetric dosing: Once set up, this feature simplifies shot pulling for less experienced users
• PID temperature control: Allows for easy temperature adjustments, but may require some experimentation to find optimal settings for different coffees

New users, especially those upgrading from simpler machines, may need some time to familiarize themselves with all the features. However, the learning curve is generally considered manageable, with most users reporting comfort with basic operations within a few days.

Daily operation workflow

The S1 Dream-T is designed to streamline the espresso-making process:

• Front-loading 3-liter water reservoir: Easy to refill without moving the machine
• 7 day programmable timer: Allows the machine to be ready when you need it, reducing warm-up time
• Dual boiler system: Enables simultaneous brewing and steaming, speeding up drink preparation
• Volumetric dosing: Once dialed in, ensures consistent shot volumes without constant monitoring

Users report that the daily workflow becomes quite efficient once they’re familiar with the machine. The ability to have the machine warmed up and ready at a scheduled time is particularly appreciated by many.

Ease of adjustments and customisation

The S1 Dream-T offers a high degree of customisation:

• Four programmable user profiles: Ideal for households with multiple coffee drinkers or for experimenting with different settings
• Adjustable coffee and steam boiler temperatures: Can be fine-tuned to suit different coffee roasts and personal preferences
• Programmable pre-infusion: Allows experiments with extraction parameters
• Adjustable shot volumes: Can be easily programmed for both single and double shots

The touch screen interface makes most adjustments straightforward, although some users reported that deeper customisations can be a bit complex and may require referencing the manual.

One potential drawback is the 53mm portafilter size, which limits compatibility with some aftermarket accessories compared to the more standard 58mm size.

Maintenance and Longevity

Regular cleaning requirements

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T requires consistent maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity:

• Daily backflushing: The machine comes with a backflush disk and the process can be initiated through the touch screen interface
• Group head cleaning: Regular cleaning of the shower screen and group gasket is recommended
• Portafilter cleaning: Should be cleaned after each use to prevent coffee oil build-up
• Drip tray emptying: The 3 liter capacity means this doesn’t need to be done too frequently
• Steam wand purging and wiping: Should be done immediately after each use to prevent milk residue build-up

The machine also features an ‘EGS’ (Electronic Ground System) function, which automatically dispenses water through the group head every 20 minutes to keep it clean when the machine is idle.

Long-term maintenance needs

For long-term care, the S1 Dream-T requires:

• Descaling: Frequency depends on water hardness, but the machine includes a water softener pouch to help reduce scale build-up
• Gasket and O-ring replacement: Typically needed every 12-18 months, depending on use
• Boiler inspection: Recommended annually, especially if used with hard water
• Pump maintenance: The vibratory pump is generally reliable but may need replacement after several years of heavy use

The machine includes a service reminder function that can be set to alert users after a certain number of shots (500, 1000, or 2000), helping to ensure timely maintenance.

Availability of parts and service

La Spaziale has a good reputation for parts availability and service:

• Many parts are interchangeable with commercial La Spaziale machines, ensuring long-term availability
• The company provides detailed technical documents and exploded diagrams, useful for DIY maintenance
• Authorized service centers are available in many countries, though coverage may vary depending on location
• The machine comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty when purchased from authorized dealers

The build quality of the S1 Dream-T contributes to its longevity, with many machines still performing well after several years of use. The modular design of many components also facilitates easier repairs and replacements when necessary.

One potential drawback is the specialized nature of some components, particularly the electronic parts and touch screen, which may require professional service if issues arise.

Performance in Various Scenarios

Single shots vs. double shots

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T is designed to handle both single and double shots effectively:

• Volumetric dosing allows for precise programming of both single and double shot volumes
• The 53mm portafilter comes with both single and double baskets
• The machine performs consistently for both shot types, with the deeper basket design potentially aiding in even extraction

It’s worth noting that the standard double basket is designed for 14g of coffee, which is less than the 18g many users prefer. Aftermarket baskets are available for those who prefer larger doses.

Light vs. dark roasts

The S1 Dream-T’s PID-controlled temperature stability and adjustable brew temperature make it versatile across different roast levels:

• For light roasts: You can increase the brew temperature to extract the delicate flavors effectively
• For dark roasts: The temperature can be lowered to avoid over-extraction and bitterness

Good results with both light and dark roasts, though some experimentation with temperature and grind settings may be necessary to achieve optimal results.

Performance with milk-based drinks

The S1 Dream-T excels in preparing milk-based drinks, thanks to its powerful steam capabilities:

• The 1.2 liter steam boiler provides ample steam power for texturing milk
• The 4 hole steam tip allows for efficient milk frothing
• Being able to steam milk for a latte in 20-30 seconds
• The dual boiler system allows for simultaneous steaming and brewing, speeding up drink preparation

The machine’s performance with milk-based drinks is often cited as one of its strongest features.

One minor drawback is the relatively short clearance between the portafilter spouts and the drip tray, which can make it challenging to fit larger cups when using the spouted portafilter. This can be mitigated by using a bottomless portafilter or shot glasses to pull the espresso before transferring it to a larger cup.

Comparative Analysis

Objective comparison with similar machines in its class

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T competes in the prosumer dual-boiler espresso machine market.

• Rocket Appartamento:
  
  • Price: Generally less expensive than the S1 Dream-T
  • Single boiler heat exchanger vs. S1 Dream-T’s dual boiler
  • E61 group head vs. S1 Dream-T’s proprietary group
  • No PID control (S1 Dream-T has PID for both boilers)
  • 58mm portafilter vs. S1 Dream-T’s 53mm
• ECM Classika PID:
  
  • Similar price point to the S1 Dream-T
  • Single boiler with PID vs. S1 Dream-T’s dual boiler
  • E61 group head
  • No volumetric dosing (a key feature of the S1 Dream-T)
• Profitec Pro 300:
  
  • Dual boiler like the S1 Dream-T
  • Similar price point
  • More compact size than the S1 Dream-T
  • 58mm portafilter
  • Less advanced interface compared to S1 Dream-T’s touch screen
• Lelit Bianca:
  
  • Generally more expensive than the S1 Dream-T
  • Dual boiler with flow control (a feature the S1 Dream-T lacks)
  • E61 group head
  • 58mm portafilter
  • Lacks the S1 Dream-T’s volumetric dosing and touch screen interface

Price-to-feature ratio

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T offers a compelling price-to-feature ratio:

• Dual boiler system with PID control at a lower price point than many competitors
• Volumetric dosing, a feature often found only in more expensive machines
• Touch screen interface, providing easy access to advanced features
• 7 day programmable timer, a convenience feature not common in this price range

It’s worth noting that the S1 Dream-T lacks some features found in higher-end machines, such as flow control or pressure profiling. The 53mm portafilter size may also be seen as a limitation by some.

Long-term Ownership Considerations

Resale value

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T tends to hold its value well in the second-hand market:

• Build quality and durability contribute to longevity, making it attractive to used buyers
• The machine’s commercial-grade components often outlast its home-use lifespan
• Reputation for reliability helps maintain resale value
• Limited availability compared to some more common brands can sometimes increase demand in the used market

Potential sellers should note that the specialized nature of the machine (53mm portafilter, touch screen interface) might slightly narrow the pool of interested buyers compared to more standardized models.

Warranty information

The S1 Dream-T comes with a 2 year parts and labor warranty starting from the original date of purchase to protect against defects in materials or workmanship. The warranty is

void if the product has been damaged by abuse, neglect, or modification. 

User community and support resources

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T has a dedicated, if not enormous, user community:

• Active forums on sites like Home-Barista.com and CoffeeGeek.com provide user experiences and troubleshooting advice
• YouTube videos from both users and retailers offer guidance on operation and maintenance
• La Spaziale provides detailed user manuals and some technical documents

While the community may not be as large as those for some more common prosumer brands, users generally report that it’s helpful and knowledgeable.

Support resources include:

• Authorized service centers in many countries, though coverage may vary by location
• Availability of spare parts, with many components shared with La Spaziale’s commercial machines
• Some retailers offer excellent customer support and technical assistance

One potential drawback is that due to the specialized nature of some components (particularly the electronics and touch screen), certain repairs may require professional service rather than DIY solutions.

Potential Limitations

Scenarios where the machine might not be ideal

While the La Spaziale S1 Dream-T is a highly capable machine, there are certain scenarios where it might not be the best fit:

• Limited counter space:
  
  • At 41.9 cm wide and deep, it may be too large for very small kitchens
  • The need for side clearance for the steam wand can further increase space requirements
• Frequent entertaining or high-volume use:
  
  • The 3-liter water tank might require frequent refilling in high-use situations
  • While capable of light commercial use, it’s not designed for constant, high-volume operation
• Desire for manual pressure profiling:
  
  • Unlike some competitors (e.g., Lelit Bianca), the S1 Dream-T doesn’t offer built-in flow control or pressure profiling capabilities
  • This might disappoint advanced users who want to experiment with these techniques
• Preference for 58mm portafilters:
  
  • The 53mm portafilter limits compatibility with some popular aftermarket accessories
  • Users heavily invested in 58mm accessories might find this inconvenient
• Budget constraints:
  
  • While offering good value, it’s still a significant investment that might be beyond some budgets
  • Some users might achieve satisfactory results with less expensive single-boiler machines
• Simplicity seekers:
  
  • The touch screen interface and multiple programmable features might be overwhelming for who prefer simpler, more straightforward machines
• Direct plumbing preference:
  
  • The S1 Dream-T model is designed for tank fed operation; users wanting a plumbed-in machine would need to consider the non-T Dream model
• Very tight under-cabinet installations:
  
  • While the front-loading water tank is convenient, some clearance is still needed above the machine for the cup warmer tray
• Uncomfortable with technology:
  
  • The touch screen interface, while user-friendly, might be intimidating for those who prefer traditional knobs and switches
• Espresso purists focused on single-origin light roasts:
  
  • While capable across roast levels, some users report that machines with E61 group heads might have a slight edge with very light roasts

These limitations don’t necessarily detract from the S1 Dream-T’s overall quality, but they’re important considerations for potential buyers to ensure the machine aligns with their specific needs and preferences.

Consumer Feedback Summary

Overview of user reviews

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T generally receives positive feedback:

• Build quality: Consistently praise the solid construction and durability of the machine.
• Espresso quality: Many report significant improvements in their espresso compared to previous machines.
• Steam power: The steam capabilities for milk-based drinks are frequently highlighted as a standout feature.
• Temperature stability: Users appreciate the consistent shot quality attributed to the PID-controlled dual boiler system.
• User interface: The touch screen is generally well-received, with most finding it intuitive after an initial learning period.
• Aesthetics: The machine’s appearance is often complimented, with users appreciating its professional look.
• Customer support: Many report positive experiences with both retailer and manufacturer support.

Common praise and criticisms

Praise:

• Consistency: Frequently mention of the machine’s ability to produce consistent shots day after day.
• Dual boiler performance: The ability to brew and steam simultaneously is highly valued.
• Volumetric dosing: Many find this feature helpful for achieving repeatable results.
• Quick heat-up time: The machine is often ready to use within 15-20 minutes of turning on.
• Quiet operation: The vibratory pump is noted to be quieter than expected.
• Programmable features: The customizable user profiles and 7-day timer are popular features.

Criticisms:

• Learning curve: Some find the initial setup and dialing in process challenging.
• 53mm portafilter: A few express disappointment with the non-standard size limiting aftermarket accessory options.
• Cup clearance: The limited space between the portafilter spouts and drip tray is occasionally mentioned as an inconvenience.
• Water tank size: Some wish the 3-liter tank was larger to reduce refill frequency.
• Complexity: A small number of users feel the machine has more features than they need, preferring simpler operation.
• Price: While generally seen as good value, some find the initial investment steep.
• Group head temperature: A few reported needing to run a cooling flush for optimal performance with darker roasts.

Conclusion

Recap of key points

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T stands out in the prosumer espresso machine market for several reasons:

• Dual boiler system with PID temperature control, offering stability and simultaneous brewing and steaming capabilities.
• Volumetric dosing for consistent shot volumes, a feature often found only in more expensive machines.
• User-friendly touch screen interface, providing easy access to advanced features and customization options.
• Powerful steam performance, making it excellent for milk-based drinks.
• Compact design suitable for home use, while still offering commercial-grade components and performance.
• Good value for money, offering features typically found in higher-priced machines.

However, potential buyers should also consider:

• The 53mm portafilter size, which may limit compatibility with some aftermarket accessories.
• The learning curve associated with its advanced features.
• The space requirements, which may be challenging for very small kitchens.

Suggestions for further research

For those considering the La Spaziale S1 Dream-T, we recommend:

• Hands-on experience: If possible, try the machine at a local retailer or barista training center.
• Compare with alternatives: Consider how the S1 Dream-T’s features align with your needs compared to other machines in its class, such as the ECM Classika or Profitec Pro 300.
• Research grinder pairings: The S1 Dream-T’s performance is heavily dependent on being paired with a suitable grinder. Investigate compatible grinders within your budget.
• Explore user forums: Websites like Home-Barista.com and CoffeeGeek.com offer valuable insights from long-term users.
• Consider your coffee preferences: If you primarily drink straight espresso or prefer light roasts, you might want to compare the S1 Dream-T’s performance in these areas with E61 group head machines.
• Evaluate your space: Carefully measure your available counter space, considering the need for side clearance for the steam wand.
• Assess water quality: Research your local water quality and consider whether you’ll need additional filtration to protect the machine from scale buildup.

The La Spaziale S1 Dream-T offers a compelling package for home baristas looking for commercial-grade capabilities in a home-friendly format. Its combination of performance, features, and value make it a strong contender in the prosumer espresso machine market. As with any significant investment in coffee equipment, we encourage potential buyers to thoroughly research and consider their specific needs and preferences before making a decision.