How does the piston operated espresso machine work? The machine consists of a large boiler, seen in the picture as the vertical barrel shaped component. Water is heated within for either brewing espresso or frothing milk. When the boiler is at the correct temperature for brewing espresso the operator simply lifts the lever. Water begins to flow from the boiler into the brew chamber and seeps down through the coffee grounds. The coffee begins to drip from the spouts into your cup. When this happens the lever is then pressed down to plunge the rest of the water through the coffee grounds.

The solid brass boiler is easy to maintain and its stunning finish is insured for the long term thanks to triple chrome or brass plating. The inside of the boiler has been nickel plated to protect against corrosion, and you never have to worry about the heating element failing as it is made of stainless steel. Pressure and temperature is perfectly maintained because of a special pressure regulator. After a heat time of 5-6 minutes, the machine will be ready to either brew espresso or froth milk, and the pressure gauge will show when the machine is ready. The boiler has a water level indicator mounted on the side for monitoring the water remaining inside.

The boiler is equipped with two safety systems that prevent over-heating and damage. If the temperature in the boiler reaches unsafe levels, a thermostat will shut the boiler off, and you will be able to reset the thermostat after the machine cools. The boiler also has a pressure relief valve mounted near the top that opens automatically to quietly relieve excessive pressures in the boiler. The boiler holds enough water for 16, 2 oz. espresso servings.

There are also two options for steaming - a traditional steam wand arm with a great 3 hole tip perfect for producing microfoam in the hands of a skilled operator. There is also a cappuccinatore wand that makes microfrothing a snap - it draws milk straight from a container of your choice and mixes it with steam from the boiler instantly producing foamed milk in a cup. It's completely foolproof, and really produces good quality microfoam as well. There is also a well- designed manual and training video in the box to get you going.

La Pavoni uses high quality marine brass in their portafilters that help with temperature stability and durability. The Professional portafilter uses chrome plating on the brass and commercial-grade plastic on the handle. The Romantica uses polished brass on brass and a unique hardwood handle that has been sealed to protect from long-term wear. The two filter baskets are made of stamped stainless steel, one for single shots and one for double shots of espresso.

La Pavoni did not skimp on the controls. Keeping inline with the machine’s other fine qualities, the control knobs and lever handle are made of thick, durable plastic on the Professional and fine hardwood on the Romantica. The cap on the boiler is made of solid brass encapsulated in heavy plastic on either model.

Underneath the brew head is the drip tray and cup area. The tray removes for easy cleaning and is dishwasher safe. Under the drip tray is the base.

Two stainless steel filter baskets for making either single or double shots of espresso, coffee tamper, measuring spoon, automatic milk frothing attachment, instruction video and an instruction manual.

• Color: Polished Chrome
  
• Warranty: One year parts and labor through la Pavoni
  
• Power: 1000 watts - 110 volts (regular USA household electrical)
  
• Weight: 16 pounds
  
• Height: 12 inches
  
• Body Material: Steel and brass
  
• Origin: Italy