Elektronika II Profi

Introduction

In the competitive landscape of prosumer espresso machines, the Elektronika II Profi stands out for its combination of ECM’s legendary build quality with the ease of use typically associated with automatic machines. It’s positioned as an ideal choice for both home enthusiasts and small businesses like cafes or restaurants where space might be at a premium but serving excellent coffee is a necessity.

Brief history of ECM

ECM, or Espresso Coffee Machines Manufacture GmbH, is a German company renowned for pairing German engineering with Italian tradition. Founded with a philosophy centered on outstanding build quality, ECM has established itself as a leading brand in the prosumer espresso machine market. Their machines are handmade by skilled artisans in Milan, Italy, ensuring exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Overview of the Elektronika II Profi 

The ECM’s Elektronika II Profi occupies a unique position in the high-end home espresso machine market. It’s one of the rare ECM models featuring volumetric controls, making it an interesting compromise between automation and manual control. This heat exchanger machine is designed to appeal to serious home baristas who appreciate traditional features but also value the consistency and convenience of programmable dosing. And the switchable water source and pre-programmed volumetric controls set it apart from many of its competitors, offering flexibility and convenience that’s uncommon in this class of machine.

Specifications and Technical Details

Dimensions and weight

The ECM Elektronika II Profi is a substantial machine, reflecting its professional-grade build quality. 

• Dimensions (WxDxH): 325 x 475 x 400 mm
• Weight: 29 kg

Its compact footprint makes it suitable for home kitchens, while its weight ensures stability during operation.

Boiler specifications

At the heart of the Elektronika II Profi is a heat exchanger system with the following specifications:

• Boiler material: Stainless steel
• Boiler capacity: 2.1 liters (0.55 gallons)
• Boiler type: Heat Exchange (HX)
• Boiler power: 1400W

The heat exchanger design allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, a key feature for those who enjoy milk-based drinks.

Pump type

The Elektronika II Profi uses a rotary pump, known for its quiet operation and consistent pressure. This pump type is typically found in higher-end machines and commercial units, offering several advantages:

• Quieter operation compared to vibratory pumps
• More consistent pressure, which can lead to better extraction
• Ability to be easily adjusted for different pressure profiles
• Generally more durable than vibratory pumps

Electrical requirements

The machine operates on the following electrical specifications:

• Voltage: 220-240V 
• Frequency: 50-60Hz
• Power consumption: 1400W

The Elektronika II Profi combines these technical specifications to deliver a machine capable of producing cafe-quality espresso in a home or small business setting.

Design and Build Quality

Materials used

The ECM Elektronika II Profi showcases ECM’s commitment to premium materials and craftsmanship:

• Body: The machine features a housing made of high-quality stainless steel with a mirror finish. This not only looks stunning but also provides durability and resistance to corrosion.
• Internal frame: Built around a one-piece steel frame that resists warping and bending, even after years of use.
• Boiler: The 2.1-liter boiler is constructed from stainless steel, known for its longevity and resistance to scale buildup.
• Group head: The machine uses the iconic E61 brew group, made of chrome-plated brass for excellent temperature stability.
• Portafilters: Two ergonomically angled ECM portafilters with weight-balanced design are included, crafted for professional use.

Aesthetic considerations

The Elektronika II Profi boasts a sleek and elegant design that would be at home in both modern and traditional kitchen settings:

• Rounded edges on the stainless steel panels give the machine a softer, more approachable look compared to some of its more angular competitors.
• The mirror-finish stainless steel exterior exudes luxury and is easy to keep clean.
• Dual pressure gauges on the front panel add a professional touch and provide useful information during brewing.
• The illuminated control panel not only enhances usability but also adds a modern flair to the machine’s appearance.

Footprint and space requirements

While the Elektronika II Profi is designed for home use, it’s important to consider its space requirements:

• It has a relatively compact footprint for a machine in its class.
• You’ll need to account for additional space above the machine to access the water tank and cup warming tray.
• The 29 kg weight means it’s not easily moved, so consider a permanent location with proper clearance for operation and maintenance.
• Ensure there’s enough counter depth to accommodate the portafilter when locked into the group head.

The ECM Elektronika II Profi’s design and build quality reflect its premium positioning in the market. The use of high-grade materials, attention to aesthetic details, and thoughtful ergonomics demonstrate ECM’s commitment to creating a machine that’s not just functional, but also a beautiful addition to any coffee enthusiast’s kitchen.

Core Functionality

Espresso extraction process

The ECM Elektronika II Profi utilizes several key components to deliver high-quality espresso:

• E61 Brew Group: This iconic group head design ensures temperature stability through a thermosyphon system, which continuously circulates hot water from the boiler through the group.
• Pre-infusion: While the Elektronika II Profi doesn’t offer manual pre-infusion control, it does include a pre-infusion cylinder in the E61 group to improve extraction consistency.
• Volumetric Controls: Four programmable buttons allow for consistent dosing, ensuring shot volume repeatability.
• Rotary Pump: Provides steady 16 bar pump pressure, which can be easily adjusted via a screw underneath the machine.

Temperature stability data

As a heat exchanger machine, the Elektronika II Profi manages temperature differently than dual boiler or single boiler machines:

• The 2.1-liter boiler maintains steam pressure around 1.0-1.25 bar, as indicated on the boiler pressure gauge.
• Temperature for brewing is managed through the heat exchanger system, which is designed to deliver water at the appropriate temperature for espresso extraction.
• It’s worth noting that the Elektronika II Profi uses a pressurestat for temperature control rather than a PID system. While effective, this may result in slightly less precise temperature control compared to PID-equipped machines.

Pressure profiling capabilities

While the Elektronika II Profi doesn’t offer built-in pressure profiling, it does provide some control over pressure:

• The pump pressure can be adjusted via a screw underneath the machine, allowing users to fine-tune extraction pressure.
• The pump pressure gauge on the front panel provides real-time feedback during extraction.
• The rotary pump allows for more consistent pressure compared to vibratory pumps found in less expensive machines.

Steam wand performance metrics

The Elektronika II Profi’s steam capabilities are a standout feature:

• The 2.1-liter boiler provides ample steam power, with pressure up to 2 bars.
• The steam wand is fully articulated and features a no-burn design with a double-wall construction.
• A 2-hole steam tip provides balanced steam flow for creating microfoam.
• The machine can steam milk for a latte in under 30 seconds, demonstrating its commercial-grade steaming capabilities.
• Professional quick steam joystick controls allow for precise steam management.

The core functionality of the ECM Elektronika II Profi demonstrates its capability to produce cafe-quality espresso and milk-based drinks. Its combination of proven technologies like the E61 group with modern features like volumetric dosing sets it apart in the prosumer market.

User Experience

Learning curve

The ECM Elektronika II Profi strikes a balance between professional-grade features and user-friendly operation:

• Volumetric Controls: The four programmable buttons simplify the brewing process, reducing the learning curve for newcomers to espresso making.
• Heat Exchanger System: While easier to use than some manual machines, mastering temperature management with an HX system still requires some practice and skill.
• E61 Group: The lack of a manual lever for pre-infusion control simplifies operation but may disappoint users who prefer more hands-on control.
• Steaming: The powerful steam wand offers commercial-grade performance but may take some time to master for those new to milk frothing.

Daily operation workflow

A typical workflow with the Elektronika II Profi might look like this:

• Turn on the machine and allow about 15-20 minutes for warm-up.
• Prepare your coffee grounds and tamp into the portafilter.
• Lock the portafilter into the E61 group head.
• Select the appropriate pre-programmed button for your desired shot volume.
• While the shot is extracting, steam milk if preparing a milk-based drink.
• Clean the group head and purge the steam wand after use.

The programmable dosing buttons and joystick steam controls contribute to a streamlined workflow, especially beneficial when preparing multiple drinks.

Ease of adjustments and customisation

The Elektronika II Profi offers several points of customisation:

• Volumetric Dosing: Each of the four buttons can be easily reprogrammed to dispense your preferred volume of espresso.
• Brew Pressure: Can be adjusted via a screw under the machine, allowing for fine-tuning of extraction.
• Water Source: The switchable water source between the 3-liter tank and direct water line offers flexibility in setup.

It’s worth noting that some adjustments common on other prosumer machines are not available:

• No PID temperature control
• Limited pre-infusion control compared to manual E61 levers

Despite these limitations, the Elektronika II Profi provides a user experience that balances convenience with the ability to craft high-quality espresso. Its design caters to both beginners who appreciate the consistency of programmable dosing and experienced users who value the machine’s professional-grade components.

Maintenance and Longevity

Regular cleaning requirements

The ECM Elektronika II Profi requires consistent maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity:

• Daily cleaning: Wipe down the exterior, empty the drip tray, clean the portafilter and baskets, and purge the steam wand after each use.
• Weekly cleaning: Perform a backflush with water using the included blind filter. This should be done at least once a week or every 150 shots, whichever comes first.
• Monthly cleaning: Use the Autoclean function with a cleaning tablet for a more thorough group head cleaning. This feature is a standout, as it’s not common in many prosumer machines.
• As needed: Clean the shower screen and group gasket, and descale the machine (frequency depends on water hardness).

Long-term maintenance needs

For long-term care and optimal performance:

• Descaling: The frequency depends on your water hardness. Using filtered water can help reduce scale buildup.
• Gasket replacement: The group head gasket may need replacement every 1-2 years, depending on use.
• Pump maintenance: The rotary pump is durable but may require servicing after several years of use.
• Boiler inspection: Periodic inspection of the boiler for scale buildup is recommended, especially in areas with hard water.

Availability of parts and service

ECM has a reputation for building machines that last, and the Elektronika II Profi is no exception:

• Parts availability: ECM provides good availability of spare parts, which is crucial for long-term ownership.
• Service network: ECM has a network of authorized service centers, though availability may vary depending on your location.
• User-serviceable parts: Many routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the user, which can help extend the life of the machine.

It’s worth noting that while the Elektronika II Profi is built to last, its more complex features (like the volumetric controls) may require professional servicing if issues arise.

The ECM Elektronika II Profi’s maintenance requirements are in line with other prosumer espresso machines. Its Autoclean function and switchable water source can simplify some aspects of maintenance. As with any high-end espresso machine, consistent care and attention to maintenance are key to ensuring its longevity and performance over time. 

Performance in Various Scenarios

Single shots vs. double shots

The ECM Elektronika II Profi is equipped to handle both single and double shots with ease:

• Portafilters: The machine comes with both single and double spouted portafilters, accommodating different shot types.
• Baskets: Included are single (7g) and double (14g) filter baskets for precise dosing.
• Volumetric controls: The four programmable buttons can be set for different volumes, allowing easy switching between single and double shots.

Performance is consistent for both shot types, thanks to the E61 group head’s temperature stability and the rotary pump’s steady pressure. As with most espresso machines, double shots tend to be more forgiving and easier to dial in than single shots.

Light vs. dark roasts

The Elektronika II Profi’s performance with different roast levels is generally good:

• Temperature stability: The E61 group provides consistent temperature, crucial for extracting both light and dark roasts effectively.
• Pressure adjustment: The ability to adjust brew pressure can help optimize extraction for different roast levels.
• Limitations: The lack of PID temperature control means that fine temperature adjustments for light roasts can be challenging.

While the machine can handle both light and dark roasts, it may perform slightly better with medium to dark roasts due to the heat exchanger design and pressurestat temperature control.

Performance with milk-based drinks

This is an area where the Elektronika II Profi truly shines:

• Steam power: The 2.1L boiler provides ample steam for quickly texturing milk to the perfect microfoam consistency.
• No-burn steam wand: The double-walled design allows for safe and precise milk steaming.
• Simultaneous operation: As a heat exchanger machine, you can steam milk while pulling a shot, streamlining the preparation of milk-based drinks.
• Recovery time: The powerful boiler ensures quick recovery between drinks, making it suitable for preparing multiple milk-based beverages in succession.

The machine’s capability to produce silky microfoam quickly makes it excellent for crafting lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based espresso drinks with professional quality.

The ECM Elektronika II Profi demonstrates versatile performance across various scenarios. Its strengths lie in its consistency for both single and double shots, and particularly in its excellent milk steaming capabilities. While it can handle a range of roast levels, those who prefer very light roasts might find the lack of precise temperature control a limitation.

Comparative Analysis

Objective comparison with similar machines in its class

The ECM Elektronika II Profi competes with several high-end prosumer espresso machines.

• La Marzocco Linea Mini:
  
  • Pros: Dual boiler system, PID temperature control, renowned build quality
  • Cons: Significantly more expensive, lacks volumetric dosing
• Rocket Espresso R58:
  
  • Pros: Dual boiler, PID control, similar build quality
  • Cons: More expensive, lacks volumetric dosing
• Profitec Pro 500:
  
  • Pros: Similar heat exchanger design, E61 group, slightly lower price
  • Cons: Lacks volumetric dosing, uses vibratory pump instead of rotary
• ECM Synchronika II:
  
  • Pros: Dual boiler, PID control, similar build quality
  • Cons: More expensive, lacks volumetric dosing

Compared to these machines, the Elektronika II Profi stands out for its volumetric dosing feature, which is rare in this class of prosumer machines. It also offers a competitive price point for a machine with a rotary pump and the ability to switch between tank and direct water line.

Price-to-feature ratio

The Elektronika II Profi offers a unique combination of features for its price point:

• Volumetric dosing: This feature is typically found on more expensive commercial machines.
• Rotary pump: Provides quiet operation and consistent pressure, often seen in pricier models.
• Switchable water source: Offers flexibility not common in this price range.
• Build quality: Matches or exceeds that of more expensive machines.

It lacks some features found in similarly priced or slightly more expensive machines:

• No PID temperature control
• Heat exchanger rather than dual boiler system

The price-to-feature ratio of the Elektronika II Profi is generally favorable, especially for users who value volumetric dosing and the flexibility of a switchable water source. It offers commercial-grade components at a prosumer price point.

For those who prioritize precise temperature control or prefer a dual boiler system, machines like the ECM Synchronika II or Profitec Pro models might offer better value, albeit at a higher price point.

Long-term Ownership Considerations

Resale value

The ECM Elektronika II Profi tends to hold its value well in the second-hand market, due to several factors:

• Brand reputation: ECM is known for high-quality, durable machines, which helps maintain resale value.
• Build quality: The robust construction and use of premium materials contribute to longevity.
• Unique features: The combination of volumetric dosing and switchable water source makes it desirable in the used market.

Potential buyers should be aware that:

• The lack of PID temperature control might slightly impact resale value compared to more modern designs.
• As with all espresso machines, proper maintenance is crucial for preserving value.

Warranty information

ECM provides a warranty for the Elektronika II Profi, though specific terms may vary by region and retailer.

• Duration: 2-year warranty is standard for parts and labor.
• Coverage: Includes defects in materials and workmanship under normal home use.
• Limitations: Does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or scale buildup.

It’s important to note that:

• Commercial use may affect warranty terms.
• Proper maintenance and use of appropriate water (filtered, low mineral content) is usually required to maintain warranty coverage.

User community and support resources

The ECM Elektronika II Profi benefits from a strong user community and support network:

• Online forums: Active discussions on platforms like Home-Barista.com and Coffee Forums UK provide peer support and advice.
• YouTube tutorials: Various channels offer guidance on use, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Retailer support: Many specialized coffee equipment retailers offer ongoing support and advice.
• ECM resources: The company provides manuals, guides, and some instructional content.

Compared to more popular models, users might find:

• Fewer model-specific resources due to the Elektronika II Profi’s unique feature set.
• Less extensive third-party modification options compared to fully manual E61 machines.

The ECM Elektronika II Profi offers a solid long-term ownership experience, backed by good build quality and a supportive user community. Its unique features may help it retain value, but also mean that some resources and modifications common to other E61 machines may not be applicable. Proper maintenance and care are key to ensuring the machine’s longevity and performance over time.

Potential Limitations

Scenarios where the machine might not be ideal

While the ECM Elektronika II Profi is a capable and versatile machine, there are certain scenarios where it might not be the best fit:

• For the temperature-obsessed barista:
  
  • The lack of PID temperature control means that precise temperature adjustments are not possible.
  • This could be a limitation for those who enjoy experimenting with light roasts or single-origin coffees that benefit from specific temperature profiles.
• For those who prefer full manual control:
  
  • The absence of a manual lever on the E61 group head means there’s no way to control pre-infusion manually.
  • Baristas who enjoy manipulating every aspect of the extraction process might find this limiting.
• In very high-volume commercial settings:
  
  • While suitable for small cafes or offices, the single-group design and heat exchanger boiler might struggle in busy commercial environments.
  • Recovery time between shots could become an issue during peak hours.
• For those with limited counter space:
  
  • It has a substantial footprint that might not suit very small kitchens.
  • The 29 kg weight makes it challenging to move frequently.
• For beginners on a budget:
  
  • While the volumetric controls are user-friendly, the overall complexity and price point of this machine might be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
  • The heat exchanger system requires some skill to manage temperature effectively.
• For those who prioritize energy efficiency:
  
  • The always-on nature of the heat exchanger boiler means it’s constantly using energy to maintain temperature.
  • This might not be ideal for users who are very conscious about energy consumption.
• For those who frequently switch between very different coffee types:
  
  • The lack of easy temperature adjustment makes it less ideal for quickly switching between coffees that require significantly different brewing temperatures.
• For users in areas with very hard water:
  
  • While the machine can be plumbed directly to a water line, areas with very hard water might require additional filtration systems to prevent rapid scale buildup.

These limitations don’t necessarily detract from the Elektronika II Profi’s overall quality and performance. Rather, they highlight scenarios where alternative machines might be more suitable. It’s important for potential buyers to consider their specific needs and use cases when evaluating this machine.

Consumer Feedback Summary

Overview of user reviews

Based on aggregated feedback from various sources, including specialty coffee forums and retailer websites, the ECM Elektronika II Profi generally receives positive reviews.

• Build Quality: Consistently praised for its robust construction and premium materials.
• Espresso Quality: Users report excellent espresso extraction, with many noting significant improvements over their previous machines.
• Steaming Performance: The powerful steam wand is frequently highlighted as a standout feature.
• Ease of Use: The volumetric dosing buttons are appreciated for their convenience and consistency.
• Aesthetics: Many users comment on the machine’s attractive appearance and how it enhances their kitchen decor.

Common praise and criticisms

Praise:

• Consistency: Users appreciate the repeatability of shots thanks to the volumetric controls.
• Steam Power: The ability to quickly produce high-quality microfoam is frequently mentioned.
• Build Quality: The solid construction and premium materials are often cited as justifying the price.
• Flexibility: The option to switch between tank and direct water line is valued by many users.
• Quiet Operation: The rotary pump is praised for its relatively quiet performance.

Criticisms:

• Learning Curve: Some users find the heat exchanger system challenging to master initially.
• Temperature Control: A few users, particularly those who enjoy light roasts, wish for more precise temperature adjustment.
• Size and Weight: Some mention that the machine is larger and heavier than expected.
• Initial Setup: A few users report that the initial setup and priming can be tricky without clear instructions.
• Maintenance: While not overly complex, some users note that regular maintenance is crucial and can be time-consuming.

It’s worth noting that many of the criticisms are common to prosumer-level espresso machines in general, rather than being specific to the Elektronika II Profi.

Conclusion

Recap of key points

The ECM Elektronika II Profi stands out in the prosumer espresso machine market with its unique blend of traditional and modern features:

• Exceptional build quality with premium materials
• Volumetric dosing for consistency and ease of use
• Powerful steam performance for milk-based drinks
• Flexible water source options (tank or direct line)
• E61 group head for temperature stability
• Rotary pump for quiet, consistent operation

It's important to consider:

• Lack of PID temperature control
• Learning curve associated with the heat exchanger system
• Substantial size and weight
• Regular maintenance requirements

Suggestions for further research

For those considering the Elektronika II Profi, we recommend:

• Compared with dual boiler machines in a similar price range if precise temperature control is a priority.
• Researching the differences between heat exchanger and dual boiler systems to understand which better suits your needs.
• Watching video tutorials on heat exchanger machine operation to gauge the learning curve.
• Checking local water hardness and considering filtration options if planning to use the direct water line connection.
• Exploring user experiences on specialty coffee forums to gain insights into long-term ownership.

The ECM Elektronika II Profi is a capable and well-built machine that offers a compelling package for serious home baristas and small cafe environments. Its volumetric dosing and powerful steaming capabilities make it particularly suited for those who frequently prepare milk-based drinks and value consistency.

While it may not offer the precise temperature control of PID-equipped machines, its overall performance, build quality, and unique feature set make it a strong contender in its price range. For those willing to invest the time in learning its nuances, the Elektronika II Profi has the potential to deliver cafe-quality espresso for years to come.

The decision to purchase should be based on your specific needs, budget, and willingness to engage with the machine’s learning curve. For many, the Elektronika II Profi will represent an excellent balance of quality, features, and value in the high-end prosumer espresso machine market.