Steel Duo Plus

Introduction

Brief history of Ascaso

Ascaso traces its coffee history back to the 50s in Spain, where espresso was quickly gaining popularity. This Barcelona based company has grown exponentially, resulting in a strategic distribution partnership with Espresso Parts in the USA beginning in 2020. With decades of experience in the coffee industry, Ascaso has established itself as a reputable manufacturer of high-quality espresso machines.

Overview of the Steel Duo PID Plus 

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus is the latest evolution of their wildly popular Ascaso Steel DUO machine. Following on the success of its predecessor, the “plus” edition packs even more punch with unparalleled advancements and modern innovations. In the current market, the Steel Duo Plus positions itself as a high-end home espresso machine, competing with other prosumer-grade equipment.

This espresso machine it’s certainly an investment for the serious home barista. However, at this price range, it offers a compelling combination of features, build quality, and performance that makes it stand out in a crowded market. The Steel Duo Plus aims to bridge the gap between commercial-grade espresso machines and more basic home models, offering professional-level features in a compact, kitchen-friendly design.

Specifications and Technical Details

Dimensions and weight

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus is designed with a relatively compact footprint, making it suitable for most home kitchens. It measures 36cm in Height, 27cm in Width, and 31.5cm in Depth. Despite its robust build, the machine weighs in at a manageable 15kg, striking a balance between stability and portability.

Boiler specifications

Unlike traditional espresso machines, the Steel Duo Plus utilizes a unique dual thermoblock system instead of conventional boilers. This innovative approach consists of two separate thermoblocks:

• Brewing thermoblock: Made of aluminum with a stainless steel water path
• Steaming thermoblock: Dedicated to steam production

This dual thermoblock technology allows for rapid heating and the ability to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously, a feature not always found in machines at this price point. The thermoblocks are PID-controlled, ensuring precise temperature management for both brewing and steaming.

Pump type

The Steel Duo Plus is equipped with a vibratory pump capable of generating up to 20 bar of pressure.

Please note that the machine typically operates at around 9-10 bar for espresso extraction, which is the industry standard. The pump pressure is adjustable via an externally accessible over-pressure valve (OPV), allowing users to fine-tune their extraction pressure.

Electrical requirements

One important consideration for potential buyers, particularly those in North America, is the machine’s power requirements. The Steel Duo Plus operates at 2100W. and comes standard with a 20-amp plug. This is higher than the typical 15-amp circuits found in many households.

Design and Build Quality

Materials used

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus lives up to its name with a robust build quality that emphasizes durability and aesthetics. The machine’s body is crafted from high-quality materials:

• Exterior: Powder-coated carbon steel and polished stainless steel details
• Water path: 100% AISI 316 stainless steel, ensuring no metal migration and reducing limescale build-up
• Group head: Commercial-grade 58mm group with a competition shower screen made of AISI 304 stainless steel

The use of these premium materials not only contributes to the machine’s longevity but also ensures the purity of the water used for brewing, which is crucial for espresso quality.

Aesthetic considerations

Ascaso has hit a home run with the Steel Duo Plus’s aesthetics. The machine sports a timeless design that would look at home in any kitchen, from modern to traditional. It’s available in three finishes:

• Black
• White
• Polished Steel (Inox)

One of the standout design features is the inclusion of wooden accents. The machine comes with walnut wood knobs and a wood handle on the 58mm commercial-grade portafilter, adding a touch of warmth and elegance to the otherwise sleek and modern design.

The front panel features a clear and easy-to-read PID display, which doubles as a shot timer during extraction. The pressure gauge is prominently placed, allowing users to monitor extraction pressure in real-time.

Footprint and space requirements

With its compact dimensions, the Steel Duo Plus is designed to fit comfortably on most kitchen countertops. You should consider a few additional space requirements:

• Clearance above: Allow extra space for filling the 2.0L water reservoir from the top
• Side clearance: The water reservoir slides out from the right side, so some additional space is needed for refilling
• Front space: Ensure there’s enough room to comfortably operate the portafilter and steam wand

While it’s more compact than many prosumer machines, it’s still a substantial piece of equipment.

Core Functionality

Espresso extraction process

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus offers a comprehensive espresso extraction process that caters to both beginners and experienced home baristas:

• Pre-infusion: The machine features adjustable pre-infusion, allowing users to set the time for gentle water saturation of the coffee puck before full pressure is applied. This helps ensure even extraction and can improve shot quality.
• Pressure profiling: While not a true pressure profiling machine, the Steel Duo Plus does offer an externally adjustable over-pressure valve (OPV). This allows users to fine-tune the brewing pressure, typically set between 9-10 bar from the factory.
• Volumetric control: The machine offers programmable volumetric dosing for both single and double shots. Users can set their preferred shot volumes, which the machine will then consistently replicate.
• Manual control: For those who prefer hands-on operation, the machine also allows for manual control of shot duration.

Temperature stability data

Temperature stability is crucial for consistent espresso extraction, and the Steel Duo Plus excels in this area:

• PID temperature control: The machine uses PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) technology for precise temperature management of both brewing and steaming.
• Dual thermoblock system: This design allows for rapid heating and excellent temperature stability.
• Temperature range: Users can adjust the brewing temperature between 90-105°C (194-221°F).

In testing, the Steel Duo Plus demonstrates impressive temperature stability, with fluctuations typically within ±1°C during a standard shot extraction. However, it’s worth noting that there’s often a temperature offset of about 4-5°C between the displayed and actual brewing temperature, which users should account for when dialing in their shots.

Pressure profiling capabilities

While the Steel Duo Plus doesn’t offer true pressure profiling like some higher-end machines, it does provide some control over pressure:

• Adjustable OPV: Users can modify the maximum brewing pressure via the externally accessible over-pressure valve.
• Pre-infusion: The adjustable pre-infusion feature allows for a gentler start to the extraction process, which can help with even extraction, especially for lighter roasts.
• Pressure gauge: The front-mounted pressure gauge allows users to monitor the actual brewing pressure in real-time.

Steam wand performance metrics

The Steel Duo Plus features a powerful steam wand, benefiting from its dedicated steaming thermoblock:

• Steam power: The machine produces dry, high-velocity steam, capable of texturing milk for a 6 oz cappuccino in about 35-40 seconds.
• Steam wand design: The ‘Plus’ model features a joystick-style steam valve for easier operation compared to the knob on the standard model.
• Steam tips: The machine comes with both 1-hole and 3-hole steam tips, allowing users to choose based on their preference and skill level.

The separate thermoblocks for brewing and steaming mean users can steam milk and brew espresso simultaneously, a feature not always found in machines at this price point.

User Experience

Learning curve

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus offers a balance between user-friendly features and professional-grade capabilities, resulting in a learning curve that can vary depending on the user’s prior experience:

• For beginners: While the machine is not overly complex, new users may need some time to familiarize themselves with concepts like adjusting grind size, tamping pressure, and milk steaming techniques. The PID controls and programmable features might also require some initial study.
• For experienced users: Those upgrading from entry-level machines will likely appreciate the additional control and consistency the Steel Duo Plus offers. The learning curve here is more about fine-tuning and optimizing rather than basic operation.

The machine’s clear display, intuitive controls, and comprehensive user manual help flatten the learning curve. To truly master the Steel Duo Plus and get the best results, you should expect to spend some time experimenting and adjusting your technique.

Daily operation workflow

The daily workflow with the Steel Duo Plus is straightforward and efficient:

• Warm-up: Thanks to its thermoblock system, the machine is ready to brew in about 3-5 minutes from a cold start. However, for optimal temperature stability, users might want to allow 10-15 minutes for all components to heat thoroughly.
• Shot preparation: The 58mm commercial-grade portafilter allows for easy dosing and tamping. The machine comes with a variety of professional-grade baskets (7g, 14g, 18g, 21g) to suit different dose sizes.
• Extraction: Users can choose between programmed volumetric shots or manual control. The front-mounted pressure gauge and shot timer help in monitoring the extraction.
• Milk steaming: The powerful steam wand and joystick control make milk texturing relatively easy, even for beginners. The ability to steam and brew simultaneously is a significant time-saver for milk-based drinks.
• Cleaning: The machine features a 3-way solenoid valve, allowing for easy puck knock-out and keeping the group head clean. Daily backflushing is simple with the included blind basket.

Ease of adjustments and customisation

The Steel Duo Plus offers several points of customisation:

• PID temperature control: Users can easily adjust brewing and steaming temperatures via the display.
• Pre-infusion: The pre-infusion time can be programmed to suit different coffee types and personal preferences.
• OPV adjustment: The externally accessible over-pressure valve allows for easy adjustment of maximum brewing pressure.
• Volumetric programming: Shot volumes can be easily programmed for consistent results.

These adjustments are generally straightforward to make, with clear instructions in the user manual. The machine’s design allows for a high degree of customisation without requiring extensive technical knowledge, making it accessible for home baristas who want to experiment and dial in their perfect shot.

Maintenance and Longevity

Regular cleaning requirements

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus, like all espresso machines, requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity:

• Daily cleaning:
  
  • Backflush with water after each use session
  • Wipe down the steam wand and purge after each use
  • Empty and rinse the drip tray
  • Wipe down the exterior to prevent coffee oil build-up
• Weekly cleaning:
  
  • Backflush with a proper espresso machine detergent
  • Clean the portafilter and baskets thoroughly
  • Remove and clean the shower screen and dispersion plate
• Monthly maintenance:
  
  • Descale the machine, especially if you’re in a hard water area
  • Check and clean the water tank

The machine’s design, particularly the removable drip tray grate and the 3-way solenoid valve, makes daily cleaning relatively straightforward. You should be prepared to commit to a regular cleaning routine to keep the machine in top condition.

Long-term maintenance needs

For long-term maintenance, users should consider:

• Group gasket replacement: This should be done annually or when signs of wear appear.
• OPV inspection: While the externally adjustable OPV is a great feature, it should be checked periodically to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
• Pump maintenance: The vibratory pump may need replacement after several years of regular use.
• Thermoblock inspection: While thermoblocks are generally low-maintenance, they should be inspected by a professional every few years.

Ascaso provides a 1-year warranty on the machine, with an extended 5-year warranty on the thermoblocks, indicating confidence in their longevity.

Availability of parts and service

Ascaso has been making strides in improving their parts and service network:

• Parts availability: Most common wear parts are readily available through Ascaso’s distribution network.
• Service network: With their partnership with Espresso Parts in the US, service options have improved. However, availability may vary depending on your location.
• User serviceability: Many routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the user, and Ascaso provides detailed documentation to assist with this.
• Community support: There’s a growing community of Steel Duo Plus users online, which can be a valuable resource for troubleshooting and maintenance advice.

It’s worth noting that while the Steel Duo Plus is generally reliable, some users have reported occasional quality control issues out of the box. These are usually resolved quickly under warranty, but potential buyers should be aware of this possibility.

Performance in Various Scenarios

Single shots vs. double shots

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus is equipped to handle both single and double shots with ease:

• Single shots: The machine comes with a 7g basket for single shots. While many home baristas prefer double shots, the Steel Duo Plus performs admirably with singles, maintaining good pressure and extraction.
• Double shots: This is where the machine truly shines. With 14g, 18g, and 21g baskets included, users have flexibility in dosing. The 58mm commercial-grade portafilter and the machine’s stable pressure and temperature control contribute to consistently good double shots.

The programmable volumetric dosing allows users to set different volumes for single and double shots, ensuring consistency across both.

Light vs. dark roasts

The Steel Duo Plus demonstrates versatility when it comes to different roast levels:

• Light roasts: These can be challenging for some machines, but the Steel Duo Plus handles them well. The adjustable PID temperature control allows users to increase brew temperature, which is often beneficial for light roasts. The pre-infusion feature also helps in extracting the delicate flavors of light roasts more evenly.
• Dark roasts: The machine performs excellently with dark roasts. The ability to lower the brew temperature helps prevent over-extraction and bitterness often associated with dark roasts at high temperatures.
• Medium roasts: As expected, the machine handles medium roasts with ease, providing a balanced extraction.

The externally adjustable OPV is particularly useful when switching between different roast levels, allowing users to fine-tune pressure to optimize extraction for each roast type.

Performance with milk-based drinks

The Steel Duo Plus excels in preparing milk-based drinks, thanks to several features:

• Powerful steam: The dedicated steam thermoblock provides dry, high-velocity steam, capable of texturing milk quickly and efficiently.
• Steam wand design: The ‘Plus’ model’s joystick steam valve offers precise control over steam flow, making it easier to achieve the desired milk texture.
• Simultaneous operation: The ability to steam milk while pulling a shot is a significant advantage for milk-based drinks, allowing for fresher, hotter beverages.
• Multiple steam tips: The inclusion of both 1-hole and 3-hole steam tips allows users to choose based on their skill level and the specific drink being prepared.

Users reported being able to create microfoam suitable for latte art with relative ease, once they’ve become accustomed to the machine’s powerful steam output.

Whether preparing a cappuccino, latte, flat white, or any other milk-based espresso drink, the Steel Duo Plus provides the tools and performance necessary for cafe-quality results at home.

Comparative Analysis

Objective comparison with similar machines in its class

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus competes in a crowded field of prosumer espresso machines.

• Lelit Elizabeth:
  
  • Both feature dual boiler systems (though Ascaso uses thermoblocks)
  • The Elizabeth has a slightly larger water tank (2.5L vs 2.0L)
  • The Steel Duo Plus offers more basket sizes and a joystick steam wand
• Profitec Pro 300:
  
  • The Pro 300 uses traditional boilers instead of thermoblocks
  • Both have PID temperature control and pressure gauges
  • The Steel Duo Plus heats up faster due to its thermoblock design
• Rocket Appartamento:
  
  • The Appartamento uses a heat exchanger system vs the Duo Plus’s dual thermoblocks
  • The Duo Plus offers more precise temperature control with its PID
  • The Appartamento has a more traditional E61 group head
• Rancilio Silvia Pro X:
  
  • Both offer dual boiler systems (though Ascaso uses thermoblocks)
  • The Silvia Pro X has a slightly larger water tank (2.5L vs 2.0L)
  • The Steel Duo Plus offers more programmability and a joystick steam wand

In comparison to these machines, the Steel Duo Plus stands out for its rapid heat-up time, energy efficiency, and the level of control it offers over the brewing process. Its thermoblock system, while different from traditional boilers, provides comparable performance with some added benefits.

Price-to-feature ratio

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus sits in the mid-to-high range of prosumer espresso machines. When considering its price-to-feature ratio:

Pros:

• Dual thermoblock system allowing simultaneous brewing and steaming
• PID temperature control for both brew and steam
• Programmable pre-infusion and volumetric dosing
• Joystick steam wand (on the Plus model)
• Compact footprint compared to many machines in its class
• Includes a wide range of professional baskets

Cons:

• Slightly smaller water tank than some competitors
• Requires a 20-amp circuit for full power (though a 15-amp adapter is included)
• Some users report a learning curve with the thermoblock system

While it may be more expensive than entry-level prosumer machines, the Steel Duo Plus justifies its price with its build quality, performance, and feature set. For home baristas looking for a machine that can grow with their skills and provide cafe-quality results, the Ascaso Steel Duo Plus presents a strong value proposition in its price range.

Long-term Ownership Considerations

Resale value

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus tends to hold its value relatively well in the second-hand market, which is a positive consideration for long-term ownership:

• Brand reputation: Ascaso’s growing reputation in the prosumer espresso machine market helps maintain the resale value of their products.
• Build quality: The machine’s robust construction and use of high-quality materials contribute to its longevity, which positively impacts resale value.
• Ongoing support: Ascaso’s continued support and parts availability make the machine an attractive option even on the second-hand market.

As with all espresso machines, the resale value will depend heavily on how well the machine has been maintained by its original owner.

Warranty information

Ascaso provides a solid warranty for the Steel Duo Plus:

• Standard warranty: 1 year for the entire machine
• Extended warranty: 5 years on the thermoblocks

This extended warranty on the thermoblocks is particularly noteworthy, as it demonstrates Ascaso’s confidence in the longevity of their innovative heating system.

It’s important to note that warranty terms may vary depending on the country of purchase and the specific retailer. You should always confirm the exact warranty terms at the time of purchase.

User community and support resources

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus benefits from a growing and active user community:

• Online forums: Platforms like Home-Barista.com and Reddit’s r/espresso have active discussions about the Steel Duo Plus, providing a wealth of user experiences and troubleshooting advice.
• Social media: There’s an increasing presence of Steel Duo Plus users on platforms like Instagram and YouTube, sharing tips, tricks, and experiences.
• Official support: Ascaso has been improving its customer support and documentation, with detailed user manuals and growing availability of official service centers.

Third-party resources:

• Several coffee equipment retailers provide additional resources, including setup guides and troubleshooting tips specific to the Steel Duo Plus.
• Independent reviewers and coffee enthusiasts have created in-depth video reviews and tutorials, which can be invaluable for new users.

The growth of this community is a positive sign for long-term owners, as it suggests ongoing support and a wealth of shared knowledge, even as the machine ages.

Potential Limitations

While the Ascaso Steel Duo Plus is a highly capable machine, there are some scenarios where it might not be the ideal choice for every user:

Electrical requirements

One of the most significant potential limitations is the machine’s power requirements:

• 20-amp circuit: The Steel Duo Plus is designed to operate on a 20-amp circuit, which is not standard in many households, particularly in North America.
• Adapter use: While the machine comes with a 15-amp adapter, using this may result in reduced performance, especially when brewing and steaming simultaneously.

For users unable to provide a dedicated 20-amp circuit, this could be a dealbreaker or at least a point of frustration.

Learning curve

For users transitioning from simpler machines or those new to home espresso:

• The level of customization and control might be overwhelming initially.
• Mastering the powerful steam wand may take practice, especially for those used to less powerful systems.
• Understanding and utilizing features like PID temperature control and adjustable pre-infusion may require a time investment.

Size constraints

Despite its relatively compact design for a prosumer machine:

• The Steel Duo Plus may still be too large for kitchens with limited counter space.
• The side-loading water reservoir requires additional clearance on the right side of the machine, which could be problematic in tight spaces.

Maintenance requirements

For users looking for a more ‘set-it-and-forget-it’ experience:

• The Steel Duo Plus requires regular maintenance and cleaning to perform at its best.
• Some users might find the descaling process for the thermoblock system more involved compared to traditional boiler systems.

Thermoblock vs. traditional boilers

While the thermoblock system offers quick heat-up times and energy efficiency:

• Some purists prefer the thermal stability of traditional boiler systems.
• The different heating characteristics of thermoblocks might require users familiar with boiler machines to adjust their techniques.

Potential for quality control issues

While not widespread, some users have reported receiving units with minor issues out of the box:

• This could be frustrating for users who expect perfect performance immediately.
• While Ascaso’s customer service generally addresses these issues promptly, it could still be an inconvenience.

Limited local support in some areas

Depending on location:

• Users might find it challenging to locate local technicians familiar with Ascaso machines for servicing.
• Parts availability could be an issue in some regions, potentially leading to longer downtimes if repairs are needed.

Not ideal for extremely high-volume use

While capable of producing multiple drinks in succession:

• The Steel Duo Plus is not designed for commercial or extremely high-volume home use.
• Users expecting to make many drinks in rapid succession might find the recovery time between shots longer than on higher-end commercial machines.

These limitations should not necessarily detract you from the Steel Duo Plus’s overall quality and capabilities, but they are important to weigh against your specific needs and circumstances. For many home baristas, these potential drawbacks will be outweighed by the machine’s strengths, but it’s crucial to have a complete picture before making such a significant investment.

Consumer Feedback Summary

Overview of user reviews

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus has generally received positive feedback from verified purchasers.

Positive feedback:

• Build quality: Many users praise the machine’s solid construction and premium feel.
• Aesthetic appeal: The sleek design and color options are frequently mentioned as positives.
• Quick heat-up time: Users appreciate the rapid warm-up, often citing it as a significant improvement over their previous machines.
• Consistency: Many report achieving consistent, high-quality shots once they’ve dialed in their settings.
• Steam power: The powerful steam wand is a highlight for many, especially those who enjoy milk-based drinks.
• Customization: Advanced users appreciate the level of control over various parameters.

Critical feedback:

• Learning curve: Some users, especially those new to prosumer machines, report a steep initial learning curve.
• Water reservoir: A few users find the side-loading water tank inconvenient.
• Noise level: The vibratory pump is noted to be louder than some users expected.
• Initial setup: Some report confusion or difficulties during the initial setup and priming process.

Common praise and criticisms

Praise:

• Temperature stability: Users consistently report excellent temperature stability during extraction, leading to better-tasting espresso.
• Dual functionality: The ability to brew and steam simultaneously is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage.
• Compact design: Many appreciate the machine’s relatively small footprint compared to other prosumer models.
• Included accessories: The variety of included baskets and portafilters is often mentioned as adding value.
• Energy efficiency: The thermoblock system is praised for its quick heat-up and energy-saving properties.

Criticisms:

• Drip tray design: Some users find the new removable drip tray grate less aesthetically pleasing or slightly unstable.
• PID display: A few users report that the display can be hard to read in bright light.
• Maintenance requirements: Some find the regular cleaning and maintenance schedule more demanding than expected.
• Price: While many feel the machine offers good value, some consider it expensive compared to entry-level prosumer machines.
• Quality control: A small number of users report receiving units with minor issues, though most praise Ascaso’s responsive customer service in addressing these.

A common thread in reviews is that the machine rewards investment in learning its features and capabilities. Users who take the time to understand and optimize the machine’s settings tend to report the highest satisfaction levels.

While there are some criticisms, they are generally outweighed by positive feedback. Many users describe the Steel Duo Plus as a worthwhile investment for serious home baristas looking to elevate their espresso game without stepping into the price range of ultra-high-end machines.

Conclusion

Recap of key points

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus has proven itself to be a formidable contender in the prosumer espresso machine market.

• Innovative technology: The dual thermoblock system offers quick heat-up times and energy efficiency, challenging traditional boiler designs.
• Build quality: Constructed with high-grade materials, the machine is built to last and performs consistently over time.
• Customization: With PID temperature control, adjustable pre-infusion, and an externally adjustable OPV, it offers a high degree of customization for the discerning home barista.
• Aesthetic appeal: The sleek design and color options make it an attractive addition to any kitchen.
• Performance: Capable of producing high-quality espresso and steaming milk efficiently, it can create cafe-quality drinks at home.
• User experience: While there’s a learning curve, especially for beginners, most users report high satisfaction once they’ve mastered the machine.
• Value proposition: Despite its premium price point, many users feel it offers good value given its features and performance.
• Limitations: Potential buyers should consider factors like the 20-amp power requirement, space needs, and commitment to regular maintenance.

Suggestions for further research

For those considering the Ascaso Steel Duo Plus, we recommend the following steps for further research:

• Hands-on experience: If possible, try the machine in person at a local retailer or barista event.
• Video reviews: Watch detailed video reviews and tutorials to get a better sense of the daily workflow and operation.
• User forums: Engage with current owners on platforms like Home-Barista.com or Reddit’s r/espresso to get real-world insights and tips.
• Compare alternatives: Consider how the Steel Duo Plus stacks up against other machines in its class, such as the Lelit Elizabeth, Profitec Pro 300, or Rocket Appartamento.
• Assess your needs: Reflect on your coffee habits, space constraints, and willingness to learn and maintain a prosumer machine.
• Warranty and support: Investigate the warranty terms and availability of support in your region.

The Ascaso Steel Duo Plus represents a compelling option for home baristas looking to elevate their espresso game. It offers a blend of innovative technology, robust build quality, and extensive customization options that can produce excellent results in the right hands.

While it may not be the perfect choice for everyone, particularly those seeking a simple plug-and-play solution, it stands out as a machine that can grow with the user’s skills and deliver professional-quality results at home. For those willing to invest the time in learning its intricacies and maintaining it properly, the Ascaso Steel Duo Plus has the potential to be a satisfying long-term investment in your home coffee setup.