Steel Duo

Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of home espresso machines, the Ascaso Steel Duo stands out as a beacon of innovation and quality. This high-end coffee machine, designed for the discerning home barista, combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek, compact design.

A Brief History of Ascaso

Ascaso is a Spanish company with a storied history in the world of coffee. For a long time, they’ve been manufacturing popular espresso machines in Europe, including the Dream, Baby, and now the Steel Duo. The company’s journey from commercial machines to the home market represents a fundamental shift in their approach to coffee machine design.

The Steel Duo: Market Positioning and Target Audience

The Ascaso Steel Duo occupies a unique position in the high-end home espresso machine market. With its dual thermoblock system and compact footprint, it’s designed to appeal to serious coffee enthusiasts who demand professional-level performance without sacrificing counter space.

The Steel Duo sits firmly in the premium segment of the home espresso machine market. It’s positioned to compete with other high-end machines like the Lelit Bianca and the ECM Synchronika, offering a compelling mix of features, build quality, and innovative technology.

What sets the Steel Duo apart is its use of thermoblock technology, a unique approach that promises rapid heat-up times and precise temperature control. This innovative feature, combined with its sleek stainless steel construction and compact design, makes the Steel Duo an attractive option for home baristas who want the best of both worlds: commercial-grade performance in a home-friendly package.

The target audience for the Steel Duo is clear: it’s designed for coffee enthusiasts who take their espresso seriously.

Specifications and Technical Details

The Ascaso Steel Duo is a compact yet powerful machine, packed with features that cater to the discerning home barista.

Dimensions and Weight

• Width: 270 mm (10.6 inches)
• Depth: 360 mm (14.2 inches)
• Height: 315 mm (12.4 inches)
• Weight: 15 kg (33 lbs)

The Steel Duo’s compact footprint makes it an excellent choice for home users with limited counter space. Its substantial weight speaks to its robust construction and high-quality components.

Boiler Specifications

Unlike traditional espresso machines with boilers, the Steel Duo uses a dual thermoblock system:

• Two separate PID-controlled thermoblocks
• One thermoblock for brewing
• One thermoblock for steaming

This innovative system allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, a significant advantage for those who frequently prepare milk-based drinks. The thermoblock design also contributes to faster heat-up times and more precise temperature control.

Pump Type

The Steel Duo utilizes a vibratory pump, which is common in many home espresso machines. While not as quiet as rotary pumps found in some higher-end models, vibratory pumps are reliable and capable of producing the necessary pressure for espresso extraction.

Additional Key Features

• PID temperature control: Ensures precise and stable brewing temperatures
• 58 mm professional portafilter: Compatible with standard commercial baskets and accessories
• Adjustable OPV (Over Pressure Valve): Allows for easy pressure adjustments without opening the machine
• Water reservoir capacity: 2 litres
• Programmable pre-infusion: Customizable from 0 to 5 seconds
• Pressure gauge: Helps monitor extraction pressure
• No-burn steam wand: Features automatic cleaning for safety and convenience
• Active cup warmer: Keeps cups at the ideal temperature

The Ascaso Steel Duo’s specifications reveal a machine that balances compact design with professional-grade components. Its dual thermoblock system, PID temperature control, and adjustable OPV are features typically found in higher-end machines, indicating Ascaso’s intention to compete in the premium home espresso machine market.

The 2-litre water reservoir is generous for a machine of this size, reducing the frequency of refills. The inclusion of a pressure gauge and programmable pre-infusion allows users to fine-tune their extractions, catering to the needs of experienced home baristas.

Design and Build Quality

The Ascaso Steel Duo is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and aesthetics. Its design seamlessly blends form and function, catering to the discerning tastes of home baristas who value both performance and appearance.

Materials Used

The Steel Duo lives up to its name with a robust construction that emphasizes durability and quality:

• Body: High-quality stainless steel
• Portafilter: Professional-grade 58 mm stainless steel
• Steam Wand: Stainless steel with no-burn design
• Internal Components: Minimal use of plastic, with a focus on aluminum, stainless steel, and brass

The use of these premium materials not only contributes to the machine’s longevity but also enhances its thermal stability, a crucial factor in consistent espresso extraction. The stainless steel body is resistant to corrosion and easy to clean, maintaining its sleek appearance over time.

Aesthetic Considerations

The Steel Duo boasts a sleek, modern design that would be at home in both contemporary and traditional kitchen settings:

• Sleek, minimalist styling with clean lines
• Available in multiple finishes, including polished stainless steel, white painted steel, and matte black steel
• Elegant wooden accents on the portafilter handle and steam knob, adding warmth to the industrial design
• Illuminated workspace with two LED lights, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal
• Pressure gauge with Ascaso branding, adding a professional touch to the front panel

The machine’s design strikes a balance between industrial chic and home-friendly aesthetics. Its appearance is reminiscent of more expensive commercial machines, giving it a premium look that belies its compact size.

Footprint and Space Requirements

One of the Steel Duo’s standout features is its compact footprint, making it an excellent choice for home users with limited counter space.

Despite its small size, the Steel Duo doesn’t compromise on features or performance. The compact design is particularly impressive considering the machine houses dual thermoblocks and a 2-litre water reservoir.

When considering space requirements, it’s important to note:

• The machine requires some additional space above for filling the water reservoir
• Allow room on the right side for attaching and removing the portafilter
• Factor in space for your grinder, as the Steel Duo doesn’t include a built-in grinding mechanism

The Steel Duo’s thoughtful design extends to its drip tray, which features fins to prevent spills when removing it. This attention to detail showcases Ascaso’s consideration for the practical aspects of daily use.

Core Functionality

The Ascaso Steel Duo is designed to deliver cafe-quality espresso in a home setting.

Espresso Extraction Process

The Steel Duo employs several features to ensure a high-quality espresso extraction:

• Professional 58 mm portafilter: This industry-standard size allows for optimal coffee distribution and contributes to consistent extractions.
• Programmable pre-infusion: Users can adjust pre-infusion from 0 to 5 seconds, helping to reduce channeling and provide more even extractions.
• PID temperature control: This feature allows for precise temperature adjustments, crucial for extracting the best flavours from different coffee beans.
• Pressure gauge: Provides real-time feedback on extraction pressure, allowing users to monitor and adjust their technique.

The machine’s thermoblock design heats water on-demand, which can lead to fresher-tasting espresso compared to machines where water sits in a boiler. Users report that the Steel Duo is capable of producing consistently good espresso shots, with rich crema and well-balanced flavours.

Temperature Stability Data

Temperature stability is crucial for consistent espresso quality, and the Steel Duo addresses this with its innovative dual thermoblock system:

• PID-controlled thermoblocks: Both the brew and steam thermoblocks are independently controlled by PID, allowing for precise temperature management.
• Temperature range: The brewing temperature can be adjusted between 90-106°C (194-222.8°F), catering to different roast levels and personal preferences.
• Rapid heat-up: The thermoblock system allows the machine to reach operating temperature in about 3 minutes, significantly faster than traditional boiler systems.

While specific temperature stability data isn’t provided, user reports suggest that the Steel Duo maintains consistent temperatures throughout the extraction process. The PID control and thermoblock design work together to minimize temperature fluctuations, which is particularly beneficial when working with light roasts or single-origin coffees that can be sensitive to temperature changes.

Pressure Profiling Capabilities

The Steel Duo offers some control over pressure, though it doesn’t have full pressure profiling capabilities:

• Adjustable OPV (Over Pressure Valve): Users can easily adjust the maximum brewing pressure without opening the machine, allowing for some experimentation with different pressure levels.
• Pre-infusion control: The programmable pre-infusion (0-5 seconds) allows for some manipulation of the initial extraction phase, which can impact the overall flavour profile.

While not as advanced as some machines designed specifically for pressure profiling, like the Decent DE1PRO, the Steel Duo does offer more control than many machines in its price range. This level of adjustability should satisfy most home baristas looking to fine-tune their extractions.

Steam Wand Performance Metrics

The Steel Duo’s steam capabilities are designed to meet the needs of cappuccino and latte enthusiasts:

• Separate steam thermoblock: Allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming.
• PID-controlled steam temperature: Can be adjusted between 110-165°C (230-329°F) for the PID version.
• No-burn steam wand: Features a double-wall design for safety and ease of cleaning.
• 360° rotation: The steam wand offers full rotation for flexible positioning.

While specific steaming times aren’t provided, user reports suggest that the Steel Duo produces ample dry steam for texturing milk. The steam power is described as adequate, though it may not match the rapid steaming capabilities of larger commercial machines or high-end prosumer models with dedicated steam boilers.

The separate steam circuit, driven by a rotary pump, ensures consistent steam production even while brewing. This feature, combined with the adjustable steam temperature on the PID version, allows users to create lush, velvety microfoam suitable for latte art.

User Experience

The Ascaso Steel Duo is designed to bring professional-grade espresso capabilities to the home barista.

Learning Curve

The Steel Duo strikes a balance between professional features and user-friendly design:

• Intuitive controls: The machine features straightforward switches and a clear digital display, making basic operations easy to grasp.
• Pressure gauge: This visual aid helps users understand and monitor the extraction process, which is particularly useful for those new to espresso making.
• PID temperature control: While this feature offers precision, it may require some experimentation to find the ideal temperature for different coffee beans.

For beginners, the initial learning curve might be steeper compared to fully automatic machines. However, the Steel Duo’s design allows users to grow with the machine, gradually exploring its more advanced features.

Experienced users will likely appreciate the familiar 58 mm portafilter and the ability to adjust key parameters like temperature and pre-infusion time. They may find the transition to the Steel Duo relatively smooth, especially if upgrading from a less advanced machine.

Daily Operation Workflow

The Steel Duo is designed for efficient daily use:

• Power on: The machine heats up in about 3 minutes, significantly faster than traditional boiler systems.
• Preparation: While the machine heats up, users can grind their coffee and prepare the portafilter.
• Brewing: Once ready, users can start brewing immediately. The PID display doubles as a shot timer, aiding in consistency.
• Steaming: Thanks to the separate steam thermoblock, milk can be steamed simultaneously with brewing.
• Cleaning: The no-burn steam wand with auto-purge function makes immediate cleaning easy.

The workflow is streamlined by several user-friendly features:

• LED lights illuminate the workspace, enhancing visibility during the brewing process.
• The active cup warmer keeps cups at the ideal temperature.
• The 2-litre water reservoir reduces the frequency of refills.

However, it’s worth noting that the machine isn’t plumbable, so regular refilling of the water tank is part of the daily routine.

Ease of Adjustments and Customisation

The Steel Duo offers a high degree of customization, catering to the needs of discerning coffee enthusiasts:

• Temperature adjustment: The PID control allows for precise temperature settings between 90-106°C (194-222.8°F) for brewing, and 110-165°C (230-329°F) for steaming on the PID version.
• Pre-infusion: Users can program pre-infusion time from 0 to 5 seconds, allowing for experimentation with different extraction profiles.
• OPV adjustment: The externally adjustable over-pressure valve allows users to modify the maximum brewing pressure without opening the machine.
• Volumetric control: On the PID version, users can program shot volumes for consistent results.

These adjustments are relatively easy to make:

• The PID display provides a clear interface for changing temperature settings.
• Pre-infusion and volumetric settings can be adjusted through the machine’s menu system.
• The OPV can be adjusted using a screw on the machine’s exterior, a unique feature that doesn’t require disassembly.

While these features offer a high degree of control, they may require some time to master. The user manual provides guidance, but some users might need to consult online resources or the Ascaso community for advanced tips and techniques.

Maintenance and Longevity

The Ascaso Steel Duo is built with quality components and designed for longevity. However, like all espresso machines, it requires regular care and maintenance to ensure optimal performance over time.

Regular Cleaning Requirements

Daily cleaning routines are essential for maintaining the Steel Duo’s performance and hygiene:

• Portafilter and baskets: Rinse thoroughly after each use and clean with a dedicated espresso machine detergent weekly.
• Group head: Wipe the shower screen with a damp cloth after each session and perform a backflush with water daily.
• Steam wand: The no-burn steam wand features an auto-purge function, making immediate cleaning easier. Wipe it with a damp cloth after each use and purge briefly.
• Drip tray: Empty and clean regularly. The Steel Duo’s drip tray features fins to prevent spills when removing, a thoughtful design element.
• External surfaces: Wipe down the stainless steel body with a soft, damp cloth to maintain its appearance.

Weekly or bi-weekly cleaning tasks include:

• Backflushing with an espresso machine detergent
• Soaking the portafilter and baskets in a cleaning solution
• Descaling (frequency depends on water hardness)

The Steel Duo’s thermoblock design may reduce scale build-up compared to traditional boiler systems, as water doesn’t sit in the machine. However, regular descaling is still important, especially in areas with hard water.

Long-term Maintenance Needs

To ensure the longevity of the Steel Duo, several long-term maintenance tasks are recommended:

• Gasket replacement: The group head gasket should be replaced annually or when signs of wear appear.
• OPV inspection: While the externally adjustable OPV is a convenient feature, it’s worth checking its calibration periodically.
• Water filter replacement: If using a water filter, replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to protect against scale build-up.
• Professional service: An annual check-up by a qualified technician can help identify and address potential issues before they become serious problems.

The Steel Duo’s design, with its focus on quality materials like stainless steel, brass, and aluminum, should contribute to its longevity. However, the thermoblock system and electronic components may require attention over time.

Availability of Parts and Service

Ascaso has been in the espresso machine business for many years, which bodes well for long-term support:

• Spare parts: Most common wear items like gaskets, O-rings, and shower screens should be readily available through Ascaso distributors or specialty coffee equipment suppliers.
• Warranty: Ascaso offers a 2-year warranty on the Steel Duo, which covers manufacturing defects. The thermoblocks are under warranty for five years for domestic use, indicating Ascaso’s confidence in their durability.
• Service network: Ascaso has an extensive distribution network, which should translate to good availability of qualified technicians for servicing and repairs.

However, it’s worth noting that as a Spanish brand, Ascaso may not have as widespread a service network in some countries compared to more globally established brands. Potential buyers should check the availability of local support before purchasing.

For those comfortable with DIY maintenance, Ascaso provides detailed user manuals and exploded diagrams of the machine, which can be helpful for minor repairs or part replacements.

Performance in Various Scenarios

The Ascaso Steel Duo is designed to cater to a wide range of espresso preferences and styles.

Single Shots vs. Double Shots

The Steel Duo comes equipped with a 58mm commercial-style portafilter, which is compatible with various basket sizes:

• Single shots: While possible, most users report primarily using double shot baskets.
• Double shots: The machine excels with double shots, which are more common in modern espresso preparation.

The PID temperature control and programmable pre-infusion allow for consistent extraction across different shot volumes. Users report that once dialed in, the Steel Duo produces consistent results shot after shot, whether pulling singles or doubles.

Light vs. Dark Roasts

The Steel Duo’s adjustable brewing temperature and programmable pre-infusion make it versatile enough to handle various roast levels:

• Light roasts: Higher temperature settings and longer pre-infusion times can help extract the delicate flavours of light roasts.
• Dark roasts: Lower temperature settings and shorter pre-infusion times can prevent over-extraction and bitterness.

Users report that the machine performs well with both light and dark roasts, though some note that very light roasts might benefit from even higher temperatures than the maximum 106°C. The temperature stability provided by the PID-controlled thermoblock system is particularly beneficial for light roasts, which can be more sensitive to temperature fluctuations.

Performance with Milk-Based Drinks

The Steel Duo’s separate steam thermoblock allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, making it well-suited for milk-based drinks:

• Steam power: While not as powerful as some commercial machines, users report that the steam wand produces sufficient dry steam for texturing milk.
• Milk texturing: The 360° rotatable no-burn steam wand allows for flexible positioning and can produce microfoam suitable for latte art.
• Temperature control: On the PID version, steam temperature can be adjusted allowing users to fine-tune their steaming process.

The machine’s ability to steam milk while brewing espresso is a significant advantage for preparing milk-based drinks efficiently.

Comparative Analysis

To understand the Ascaso Steel Duo’s position in the market, let’s compare it to similar machines in its class and evaluate its price-to-feature ratio.

Objective Comparison with Similar Machines

The Steel Duo competes in the prosumer dual boiler/dual thermoblock category. Some comparable machines include:

• Lelit Bianca: Offers flow profiling capabilities but is typically more expensive.
• ECM Synchronika: Features a traditional dual boiler system and is generally pricier.
• Profitec Pro 300: A dual boiler machine in a similar price range but with a more traditional design.

Compared to these machines, the Steel Duo stands out for its:

• Compact size: Smaller footprint than most dual boiler machines.
• Quick heat-up time: Thanks to its thermoblock design.
• Externally adjustable OPV: A unique feature not common in this class.
• Modern aesthetics: Sleek design that sets it apart from more traditional-looking machines.

However, it lacks some features found in competitors:

• No flow profiling capabilities (unlike the Lelit Bianca).
• Vibratory pump instead of a rotary pump found in some higher-end models.
• Smaller steam capacity compared to traditional dual boiler systems.

Price-to-Feature Ratio

Pros:

• Dual thermoblock system allowing simultaneous brewing and steaming
• PID temperature control for both brew and steam
• Programmable pre-infusion
• Compact design without sacrificing performance
• Quick heat-up time
• Externally adjustable OPV

Cons:

• No built-in grinder (common at this price point)
• Limited pressure profiling capabilities compared to some competitors
• Steam power may not match larger dual boiler systems

Considering its feature set, build quality, and performance, the Steel Duo offers good value for its price. It brings many features typically found in more expensive machines to a relatively accessible price point.

Long-term Ownership Considerations

When investing in a high-end espresso machine like the Ascaso Steel Duo, it’s important to consider the long-term aspects of ownership. 

Resale Value

• Brand reputation: Ascaso’s reputation for quality should help maintain resale value.
• Build quality: The use of durable materials like stainless steel suggests good longevity, which could positively impact resale value.
• Innovative features: The dual thermoblock system and modern design may appeal to future buyers, potentially supporting resale value.

As with most technology products, some depreciation is expected. The lack of a built-in grinder might be a factor in the resale market, as some buyers prefer all-in-one solutions.

Warranty Information

Ascaso provides a solid warranty for the Steel Duo:

• General warranty: 2 years coverage for manufacturing defects
• Thermoblock warranty: 5 years for domestic use

Potential buyers should note that warranty terms may vary by region, and it’s always wise to verify the specific terms with your local distributor.

User Community and Support Resources

The Ascaso Steel Duo benefits from a growing community of users and several support resources:

• Online forums: Platforms like Home-Barista.com and Reddit’s r/espresso have active discussions about the Steel Duo.
• YouTube reviews: Several in-depth video reviews provide insights into long-term usage.
• Manufacturer support: Ascaso provides user manuals and exploded diagrams, useful for DIY maintenance.
• Distributor network: Ascaso’s extensive distribution network can be a source of local support and advice.

While the user community may not be as large as some more established brands, it’s active and growing. The availability of online resources can be particularly helpful for troubleshooting and getting tips for optimizing performance.

Potential Limitations

While the Ascaso Steel Duo is a capable machine, there are scenarios where it might not be the ideal choice:

• Limited counter space: Despite its compact design, at 27 cm wide, 36 cm deep, and 31.5 cm tall, it may still be too large for very small kitchens.
• High-volume use: While suitable for home use, the Steel Duo may not be ideal for small cafes or offices with high-volume needs. Its 2-litre water tank and thermoblock system might struggle with continuous heavy use.
• Pressure profiling enthusiasts: Unlike machines like the Decent DE1PRO or Lelit Bianca, the Steel Duo doesn’t offer advanced pressure profiling capabilities. Baristas who want to experiment extensively with pressure profiles might find it limiting.
• Traditional dual boiler purists: Some users prefer the steam power and capacity of traditional dual boiler systems. The Steel Duo’s thermoblock steam system, while efficient, may not satisfy those accustomed to commercial-grade steam power.
• Plumbed-in preference: The Steel Duo isn’t designed to be plumbed in. For those who prefer a direct water line connection, this could be a limitation.
• Budget constraints: While offering good value for its features, the Steel Duo is still a significant investment. Those on a tighter budget might need to look at more affordable options.
• Grinder dependency: The Steel Duo doesn’t come with a built-in grinder. Users will need to budget for a separate, high-quality grinder, which could be seen as an additional expense or inconvenience.
• Power requirements: The machine requires a 20 amp circuit, which may not be standard in all homes. This could necessitate electrical upgrades for some users.
• Milk-drink focus: While capable of producing good microfoam, those primarily interested in milk-based drinks might prefer a machine with more powerful steam capabilities.
• Maintenance concerns: The thermoblock system, while innovative, is less common than traditional boilers. Some users might be concerned about long-term maintenance and the availability of specialized repair services.

Consumer Feedback Summary

Overview of User Reviews

Overall, Users consistently praise the machine’s build quality, aesthetic appeal, and espresso-making capabilities. Many reviewers express satisfaction with their purchase, often comparing it favorably to previous machines they’ve owned.

Common Praise

• Build quality: Users frequently commend the solid construction and use of high-quality materials.
• Aesthetic appeal: The sleek, modern design receives widespread appreciation.
• Compact size: Many users appreciate the machine’s small footprint compared to other prosumer models.
• Quick heat-up time: The rapid warm-up of the thermoblock system is a standout feature for many.
• Temperature stability: Users report consistent shot quality, attributing this to the PID-controlled thermoblocks.
• Ease of use: Despite its professional features, many find the Steel Duo user-friendly.
• Customization options: The ability to adjust temperature, pre-infusion, and pressure is highly valued.

Common Criticisms

• Steam power: Some users find the steam capability adequate but not as powerful as traditional boiler systems.
• Learning curve: A few users mention a steeper learning curve compared to more basic machines.
• Water reservoir size: For heavy users, the 2-litre tank may require frequent refilling.
• Noise level: The vibratory pump is noted to be louder than rotary pumps found in some competitors.
• Limited pressure profiling: Advanced users sometimes wish for more extensive pressure profiling capabilities.
• Price: While many feel the machine offers good value, some find it a significant investment.

Despite these criticisms, the majority of users express high satisfaction with the Steel Duo, often stating that it meets or exceeds their expectations for home espresso production.

Conclusion

The Ascaso Steel Duo presents itself as a compelling option in the prosumer espresso machine market, offering a blend of innovative features, compact design, and solid performance.

Recap of Key Points

• Design and Build Quality: The Steel Duo impresses with its sleek, modern aesthetic and high-quality construction, featuring a stainless steel body and professional-grade components.
• Core Functionality: With its dual thermoblock system, PID temperature control, and programmable pre-infusion, the machine delivers consistent espresso extraction and allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming.
• User Experience: While there’s a learning curve, users generally find the machine intuitive to use and appreciate the level of customization it offers.
• Maintenance and Longevity: Regular cleaning is straightforward, and the build quality suggests good longevity. Ascaso provides a solid warranty, particularly for the thermoblocks.
• Performance: The Steel Duo handles various coffee types well, from light to dark roasts, and performs admirably with both straight espresso and milk-based drinks.
• Comparative Value: At its price point, the Steel Duo offers a competitive feature set, particularly for those valuing a compact footprint and quick heat-up times.

Suggestions for Further Research

Before making a decision, potential buyers might consider:

• Researching the availability of local support and service options for Ascaso machines in their area.
• Considering their typical usage patterns and whether the Steel Duo’s water reservoir capacity and steam power align with their needs.
• Exploring user forums and video reviews to gain insights into long-term ownership experiences.
• Assessing their kitchen space and electrical setup to ensure compatibility with the machine’s requirements.
• Evaluating their budget not just for the machine, but also for a quality grinder if they don’t already own one.

The Ascaso Steel Duo represents a notable entry in the high-end home espresso machine market. While it may not be the perfect fit for everyone, for many, it could be the ideal bridge between professional-grade performance and home-friendly design.