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Product Description
Built with the commercial-grade components and handmade craftsmanship you've come to expect from Rocket Espresso, the Rocket R58 Dual Boiler offers you double boiler functionality and dual PID temperature control — all in a plumbable, classically styled chrome and stainless-steel housing. Features of the new V2 model include a stronger chassis complete with nylon rails for a seamless drip tray fit, an upgraded magnetic drip tray closure, and an updated control board for optimized steaming and brewing.
Features & Functionality of the Rocket R58 Dual Boiler Espresso Machine - V2
- Dual Boiler: Working independently for both brewing and steaming, the dual boiler along with thermo siphon system design allows for stability in the espresso boiler and increased levels of steam pressure and hot water from the service boiler. The brewing boiler holds 0.58 liters while the hot water/steam boiler holds 1.7 liters.
- Dual PID Temperature Control: Program steam and brew boilers with an electronic remote-control PID that plugs into the side of the machine and does not interfere with the R58's classic styling.
- Commercial Rotary Pump: Quieter than most other rotary pumps, the R58's pump gives you the ability to adjust the pump pressure with the external pressure adjustment controls while monitoring through the pressure gauges.
- Pre-Infusion: To extract the full flavor and aroma when you brew your espresso, the R58 has a dual pre-infusion system encompassing a working piston and static pre-infusion chamber.
- Pressure Gauges: With two pressures gauges on the face of the R58, one monitors the pump while the other monitors the boiler pressure.
- Commercial Parts: Keeping up to its high standards, Rocket made sure that the R58 was made of quality commercial parts, including the E-61 brewhead, rotary pump and heavy weight portafilter (with single and double baskets).
- Plumb It!: Standard with a 2.5 liter water reservoir, a control switch allows you to plumb the R58 right into your kitchen's water line.
- Upgraded and Additional Steam Tip: The steam tip now features a 1.2mm diameter hole, and you get a replacement tip for down the road!
- Handcrafted: Each machine is unique and hand crafted in Italy. Small warps in the case are normal and part of each machine's unique assembly process.
| Pros |
|
|---|---|
| Cons |
|
| Ease of Use | 4 |
| Ease of Care and Maintenance | 4 |
| Overall Value for the Money | 4 |
| How Does it Compare? | An electronic PID guarantees consistent temperature regulation for each boiler, handy when making a wide variety of beverages in a short time frame. An upgraded rotary pump eliminates back pressure from the boiler and makes this machine plumbable. |
Additional Information
| Manufacturer | Rocket Espresso |
|---|---|
| Width | 12.25 inches |
| Depth | 17.5 inches |
| Height | 16.25 inches |
| Product Weight (lbs.) | 64.0000 |
| Watts | 1400W |
| Programmability | No |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Boiler Material | Brass/Copper |
| Boiler Volume | Steam: 1.7 liter | Group: .58 liter |
| Reservoir Size | 2.5 liter |
| Solenoid Valve | Yes |
| Steam Wand Type | Traditional Only |
| Cup Warmer | Yes |
| Available Portafilters | Non-Pressurized |
| Boiler Design | Double Boiler |
| Water Sources | Convertible - Internal Reservoir or Plumbed in |
| Auto Shut Off | No |
| Auto On | No |
| Pre-Infusion/Aroma | Yes |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
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Browse 26 questions and 54 answers
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Between rocket r58 v2 and alex duetto 3 which one has more grouphead flexing?, and between the 2 which one would you recommend.
I am struggling with deciding on the R58 or the Izzo Alex Duetto 3.0. Can you sell me on the R58? Why should I choose one over the other?
Toss up between the Rocket R58 and the La Marzocco GS/3. this would be for home, non-plumbed use.
Really like the fill tray at the front of the GS/3. Filling the R58 could be a problem as it will sit under a cabinet.
Question: does the R58 have any small wheels for pulling out and filling? Seems it would be difficult to pull out to fill the reservoir.
Thanks. The videos with Gail are great!
Really like the fill tray at the front of the GS/3. Filling the R58 could be a problem as it will sit under a cabinet.
Question: does the R58 have any small wheels for pulling out and filling? Seems it would be difficult to pull out to fill the reservoir.
Thanks. The videos with Gail are great!
Simple (and maybe stupid) question: How to remove the water tank? I'm having a hard time pulling it from the machine.
Best Answer: Rocket has made a change to the fit of their water tanks on the R58 as well as their other models within the last few months, and so this is actually a question we get a lot! The tank is a very tight fit, but does lift straight up and out. I generally advise putting a bit of water in the tank, turning the machine on to allow some water to be pulled into the boiler to lubricate the water tank gasket, and then turning it off after a few seconds (as you should rinse/wash the tank out before filling the boiler completely). Hopefully the tank will then lift out more easily for you so you clean it, and it will loosen up and be even easier to remove over time. Hope this helps!
Hi, I am a proud owner of a R58 and I am getting along with the machine very nicely, one nagging concern I have is over advice I was given from the supplier (being outside of the US it wasn't possible to order from SCG). The recommendation was to always leave the machine on unless I wasn't planning to use it for over 10 days i.e. going out of town.
I tend to use the machine in the morning 1-2 cups prior to going to work and then 1-2 cups in the evening when I'm home, more on a weekend around 5-6 cups in a day. What's the general consensus - leave it on or put it on a timer?
I tend to use the machine in the morning 1-2 cups prior to going to work and then 1-2 cups in the evening when I'm home, more on a weekend around 5-6 cups in a day. What's the general consensus - leave it on or put it on a timer?
Best Answer: I bought the Rocket R58 Dual Boiler Espresso Machine V2 from Seattle Coffee Gear eight months ago (August of 2013). I have used it daily since then. My usage is almost exactly as you described yours tends to be. It has been on a heavy duty timer from day one to both save energy and eliminate the problem of an electrical malfunction while I am away at work. I have no problems to report so far by using the timer. I am very sorry you could not order from Seattle Coffee Gear. It is a super company to buy from. I was so impressed with them from the Rocket purchase that today, when my old Breville grinder gave out, I immediately ordered a new ceramic burr grinder from them.
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· Michael I K on Apr 14, 2014
Hey!
Really thinking about this machine for home use and settings like small events. Seems to be fairly on par with the La Marzocco GS/3, which is surprising with such a drastic difference in price point.
One question I do have concerns pre-infusion. Is this just a built in pre-infusion? Can you control it or set the time yourself?
Any other additional thoughts would be great!
Really thinking about this machine for home use and settings like small events. Seems to be fairly on par with the La Marzocco GS/3, which is surprising with such a drastic difference in price point.
One question I do have concerns pre-infusion. Is this just a built in pre-infusion? Can you control it or set the time yourself?
Any other additional thoughts would be great!
Best Answer: E61 group is built in with preinfusion function but according to SCG you can stretch it by controlling the lever. It takes a few trials to find the position of the lever for it, but I'm not sure it makes a diff. The shots are all good with or without doing it and they taste the same.
I shared all my experience and posted it on coffeegeek dot com (SCG doesn't allow to post a link of a website). You can find it in the forum under "rocket R58 v2 experience sharing". Hope it will help.
I shared all my experience and posted it on coffeegeek dot com (SCG doesn't allow to post a link of a website). You can find it in the forum under "rocket R58 v2 experience sharing". Hope it will help.
Is the video for descaling the Rocket R58 still available? Thank you and best Regards, Ale
Best Answer: Unfortunately, it's not. We are recommending per Rocket's recommendations, not to descale your machine. The Rocket machines should not need descaling except potentially every few years (typically 4-5) but only if you encounter an issue. This professional descaling is much more intensive and removes the boilers entirely from the machines. Instead, Rocket recommends using soft water, and by filtering your water, you can ensure that you're not putting too many minerals into your machine that cause a lot of scale buildup. You can use Rocket's filter, or you can test your water using a water hardness test strip. Ideally, you're looking for the water to be soft, somewhere between 1-3 GPG.
Is there a way to have the machine warn me about the water level before pouring a shot? It's really my only complaint with this machine. The light blinks just as the machine stops running water and then I have to start all over refilling the portafilter which wastes coffee and time :( . Would be great to know the water level is low before it's out. Thanks!
Best Answer: No, unfortunately there is not an indicator for a low level of water, just that blinking light to indicate when your Rocket R58 is out of water. Other than checking the tank before you brew your shot, I don't have a recommendation for any warning for this ahead of time, unfortunately.
Can the feet on the R58 be removed? i currently own a Silvia and was wanting to upgrade. my only issue is we just had our kitchen remodeled and i'm fearful that it won't fit under the upper cabinet?
Best Answer: Technically yes, they are able to be unscrewed like furniture legs. Though the machine wouldn't work without legs as the bottom is not flat, the drain for the drip train and the water connection for hard plumbing extend out on the bottom. I have the machine on our counter under our upper cabinets and it is a pretty tight fit (16 7/16" from counter to bottom of cabinet) but works well. I hard plumbed the machine so I do not need to move it in and out all the time to fill the water reservoir, which with the machines hefty weight and tight fit, was very inconvenient.
I've only had this machine for 2 days and I absolutely LOVE IT!!
My question is, what should be the proper ritual to making myself a latte every morning? My biggest questions are around cleaning, but here's what I gather so far. Any advice on something I'm missing or something I'm doing that is not necessary would be greatly appreciated!!
1. Make sure there is enough water in the water tank
2. Turn machine on, wait 30-45 minutes
3. Run hot water through portafilter (manual says 1 cup? Do I do this every time??)
4. Pour milk into frothing pitcher (ice cold)
5. Let a little steam out of the steam wand
6. Froth milk and set aside
7. Let a little more steam out of the steam wand and wipe clean
8. Fill portafilter with coffee, tamp, put in machine
9. Lift lever half way for a few seconds, then all the way
10. Watch my espresso being poured (time it, 20-30 seconds for 2 oz), close leve
11. Remove portafilter, dump hockey puck
Cleaning... (this is where i'm most confused about the best way to keep my machine clean)
12. Do I place portafilter back into the machine and run water through it each time?
13. Remove basket from portafilter with tool and wash/clean each separately
14. Do I remove the basket (not sure what this is called, sorry) inside the machine with the rubber ring each time after I make coffee to clean?
The reason I ask about the cleaning is because I found grounds in my portafilter after I had cleaned it and placed it back in the machine from the previous use. I had NOT removed the upper basket/rubber ring after previous use. When I did that, I found grounds stuck around the ring, etc. So should I clean that everyday? Every time?
Thanks so much!
My question is, what should be the proper ritual to making myself a latte every morning? My biggest questions are around cleaning, but here's what I gather so far. Any advice on something I'm missing or something I'm doing that is not necessary would be greatly appreciated!!
1. Make sure there is enough water in the water tank
2. Turn machine on, wait 30-45 minutes
3. Run hot water through portafilter (manual says 1 cup? Do I do this every time??)
4. Pour milk into frothing pitcher (ice cold)
5. Let a little steam out of the steam wand
6. Froth milk and set aside
7. Let a little more steam out of the steam wand and wipe clean
8. Fill portafilter with coffee, tamp, put in machine
9. Lift lever half way for a few seconds, then all the way
10. Watch my espresso being poured (time it, 20-30 seconds for 2 oz), close leve
11. Remove portafilter, dump hockey puck
Cleaning... (this is where i'm most confused about the best way to keep my machine clean)
12. Do I place portafilter back into the machine and run water through it each time?
13. Remove basket from portafilter with tool and wash/clean each separately
14. Do I remove the basket (not sure what this is called, sorry) inside the machine with the rubber ring each time after I make coffee to clean?
The reason I ask about the cleaning is because I found grounds in my portafilter after I had cleaned it and placed it back in the machine from the previous use. I had NOT removed the upper basket/rubber ring after previous use. When I did that, I found grounds stuck around the ring, etc. So should I clean that everyday? Every time?
Thanks so much!
Best Answer: Hi Claudia,
It sounds like everything you're doing is just about right! You don't need to run an entire cup of water through the portafilter each time, and just a little bit for a cooling flush. As far as cleaning, you do not need to remove the brew head gasket (that rubber ring) and brew head screen each time you brew. You can run some water through the brew head and/or rub a clean rag around the edge of the brew head to remove excess grounds after each brew. We also recommend back flushing and descaling regularly. I have included a few links to pages that outline those processes, and we recommend back flushing once every 1-2 weeks, and descaling this heat exchanger once every 2-3 months depending on how hard your water is. Hope this helps!
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/learn/coffee-101/infographics/guide-to-backflushing
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/learn/coffee-101/infographics/guide-to-descaling
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/learn/coffee-101/infographics
It sounds like everything you're doing is just about right! You don't need to run an entire cup of water through the portafilter each time, and just a little bit for a cooling flush. As far as cleaning, you do not need to remove the brew head gasket (that rubber ring) and brew head screen each time you brew. You can run some water through the brew head and/or rub a clean rag around the edge of the brew head to remove excess grounds after each brew. We also recommend back flushing and descaling regularly. I have included a few links to pages that outline those processes, and we recommend back flushing once every 1-2 weeks, and descaling this heat exchanger once every 2-3 months depending on how hard your water is. Hope this helps!
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/learn/coffee-101/infographics/guide-to-backflushing
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/learn/coffee-101/infographics/guide-to-descaling
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/learn/coffee-101/infographics
Can you please tell me what the specific waterline size this machine requires and what kind of piping? Copper, flexible, etc. Thank you.
Best Answer: Stephanie,
the R58 comes with an adapter for american plumbing. The connection would be R58, metric hose, adapter, 3/8" or 1/2" american hose(depending on your outlet), valve.
The american side is the same as the flexible hose for your sink. You may want a double outlet valve at your sink to supply your machine, if that is where it will be. One for your sink, one for your machine.
It's really not that hard, once you have the parts in hand. You may want a inline water filter, depending on your water. But, you can add that later.
the R58 comes with an adapter for american plumbing. The connection would be R58, metric hose, adapter, 3/8" or 1/2" american hose(depending on your outlet), valve.
The american side is the same as the flexible hose for your sink. You may want a double outlet valve at your sink to supply your machine, if that is where it will be. One for your sink, one for your machine.
It's really not that hard, once you have the parts in hand. You may want a inline water filter, depending on your water. But, you can add that later.
I've read a bottomless portafilter is included with a kit for this machine. Is this still true?
Best Answer: No, unfortunately the R 58 comes with the single and double spout portafilter and baskets, but the bottomless portafilter and triple basket is a separate purchase, and can be found at the link below:
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/58mm-bottomless-portafilter-for-rocket-giotto-and-rocket-cellini-models
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/58mm-bottomless-portafilter-for-rocket-giotto-and-rocket-cellini-models
Does the Rocket really need back flushing daily? That is the recommendation here. That is the only thing holding me back from purchasing the Rocket.
Best Answer: It really depends on how much you're using the machine. We recommend backflushing the machine once per week if you're using it daily, but if you're only using it on weekends or every now and then, then every 2-3 weeks should be fine. What's important is that you're doing it often enough to keep the machine clean, and if you don't do it but continue using the machine, you could encounter a variety of issues, so regular maintenance is key!
Hi I reside in Canada, do I need to buy extra electrical & water line adapters if I want to use this at home? Also, do you do delivery over to Canada?
Best Answer: I'm sorry, unfortunately we cannot ship to Canada. Also, provided that you have 110V outlets, you shouldn't need extra equipment, the machine uses a grounded 110V plug (and you shouldn't adapt it for any other outlet like 220V since the wiring inside is set for 110V). For plumbing it in, the machine comes with a BPT connection, but also has an adapter to switch it to NPT (American threading), so you should be able to use it with either the European threading or the American threading. I don't think there is a different kind besides that.
Is the Rocket R58 "NSF" sanitation certified?
Is the protafilters in solid brass?
Best Answer: The portafilter for the Rocket R58 is chrome plated brass with a plastic handle. They are very solidly constructed, however due to the plating you may notice the chrome wear and expose the brass on the portafilter tabs over time. Hope this helps!
What is the range of voltage of this machine? Is it 110 - 220 V ?
Since I'm located partly in Europe as well in the US I want to make sure that I can use this machine at all locations.
Since I'm located partly in Europe as well in the US I want to make sure that I can use this machine at all locations.
Do the two Rocket R58 Portafilters come with ridged or ridgeless baskets? I'm planning on buying 3rd party baskets by VST which come in both versions. I'm hoping the R58 uses ridgeless baskets.
I appreciate the answers given to previous questions, I'll certainly be following some of the advice given.
I appreciate the answers given to previous questions, I'll certainly be following some of the advice given.
What is the height of the grouphead to the drip tray,also the distance from the double spout portafilter to the drip tray?
When mounting the pf, is there flexing in the grouphead at all if so how much? I heard you cant brew and steam at the same time with 15amp?
Best Answer: The brew head gasket is stiff at first on the Rocket R58, and like any will wear in over time. This will reduce any flexing that you might see at first in the brew head but any at all is minimal. You can absolutely brew and steam at the same time even using this machine on 15 amps.
Could this machine be used for small catering events or for say a small business?
Best Answer: No, this machine is not commercially rated, and so I would not recommend it for commercial or business use. For a commercially rated machine in a similar price point, check out the Rancilio Epoca at the link below:
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/rancilio-epoca-st-semi-automatic-commercial-espresso-machine-1-group-tank
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/rancilio-epoca-st-semi-automatic-commercial-espresso-machine-1-group-tank
How long do Rocket machines take to warm up? The things I have read online have a wide variance - anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes.
Best Answer: The reason that you will read such a variance on heat up times with this Rocket R58, or any similar large, E-61 brewhead machine, is because the machine will be hot in the boiler before the brewhead is hot. So the machine may look "ready to brew" on a PID or boiler gauge, but both the metal at the brewhead and portafilter will be cold. Therefore, if you brew at this point, you will draw nice hot espresso through an ice-cold portafilter and dramatically alter things! For this reason, we suggest letting most machines heat up for about 30 minutes with the portafilter attached for best results. Hope this helps clarify!
Would this machine be a good choice for a restaurant bar area. Concern is speed and reliability making up to 100 coffees
a day. Advice?
Thanks!
a day. Advice?
Thanks!
Best Answer: No, unfortunately this is not a commercially rated machine, and so you will void the warranty if you use it in that setting. For a restaurant, you'd need something like the Rancilio Epoca, and I've included a link below. I would suggest looking for something that is NSF rated, and start by looking at the Cafe tab on our website. Feel free to give us a call to talk about commercial machines if you have any other questions!
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/rancilio-epoca-st-semi-automatic-commercial-espresso-machine-1-group-tank
http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/rancilio-epoca-st-semi-automatic-commercial-espresso-machine-1-group-tank
Purchased the Rocket V58 Dual Broiler and am having trouble figuring out how to hard plumb it. What size water tube must be plumbed into the Rocket and what size drain tube attaches to the unit? Thank you!
Resources
Warranty Information for the Rocket R58 Dual Boiler Espresso Machine
| What it Covers: |
Rocket Espresso machines |
| Length: | 1 Year |
| Who Supports the Warranty: | Seattle Coffee Gear |
| Warranty Contact Information: | 866-372-4734 or email us at warranty@seattlecoffeegear.com |
| Notes: | Read more about Seattle Coffee Gear's Warranty coverage. |
| Eligible for SCG Extended Warranty? | Yes |
| Can SCG Repair? | Yes. Read more about our out-of-warranty repair services. |
Caring for the Rocket R58 Dual Boiler Espresso Machine
- Clean the brew gasket daily with a cleaning brush.
- Soap out water tank and drip tray every few days.
- Perform backflush routine daily and clean the filter basket each week.
- Keep the stainless-steel casing shiny with a microfiber cloth.
User Manuals for your Rocket Dual Boiler R58 Espresso Machine
Videos Featuring the Rocket R 58 Dual Boiler Espresso Machine
How to Backflush your E61 Espresso Machine
Compare Dual Boiler Home Espresso Machines
Crew Review: Rocket Espresso Accessories
Crew Review: Rocket Espresso Reservoir Filter
Compare: Rocket R58 and Rocket Giotto Evoluzione
Compare: Rocket R58 and Quick Mill QM67
Compare: Rocket R58 and La Marzocco GS/3
Interview with Rocket Espresso's Andrew Meo
Articles Related to the Rocket R58 Dual Boiler Espresso Machine
Reviews
- in perfetto statoReview by Sandy
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This is by far the foremost espresso machine for home use, ever fabricated; beautiful, well engineered and easy to utilize.Quality Price Value
(Posted on 2/16/2015) - Great Machine!Review by Tanega
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I have had this machine for over a year now. I did run into the loose steam valve problem...just got a wrench and tighten it...problem solved. Put lock tight on nut now problem now. Make sure you plumb it in with a water filter. Wish they had a way to descale the machine in the pid controller....oh well maybe V3 will have it.Quality Price Value
Over all the it has been a great upgrade from a exposer lever HX machine. I use a Espro Toroid for steaming milk... (Posted on 12/10/2014) - Great machine, a few nitpicksReview by Brent
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When our vintage mid-60's Italian espresso machine died, my wife said a little prayer, held a little wake and we then went researching a new machine. We had come down to a choice between the Rocket Giotto Rev (HX) and a Vetrano 2B (Dub boil), which were the same price. My wife, a designer, loved the aesthetic of the Rocket. When we decided to go with a double boiler machine, she really wanted the Rocket look, so we spent up to get the R58. Boy are we happy we did.Quality Price Value
First, SCG is awesome to deal with. They worked with us on the price. They shipped instantly. They were patient and always available as we worked through the plumbing installation (see below) and asked general questions as we tried to figure out the machine, and what wasn't stated in the manual. So, SCG continues to be a stellar company to work with and kudos to them. Their customer service in the buying, negotiating, and set up were all top notch, and we highly recommend buying from them.
As to the machine, it is beautiful and well built. By and large it is an amazingly well designed machine. Even the packaging was top notch. We do have a few nits to pick, but none of them affect our overall pleasure and none of them should be a major deciding factor in considering this machine.
It took us about 4-5 tries to get our grind, tamp and pull to where the espresso "was better than" what we get from our local barista place, according to my wife. So, the machine has a learning curve, like any machine, but delivers a great result. The warmer on top is great, the controls are solid and it makes great coffee. It heats up in about 5 minutes, is appropriately quiet/noisy and it just plain works. Note, you do need to have about a half pound or more of coffee and a half gallon of milk allocated just for your training, which would be true with any new machine Once you get it dialed in, the coffee and frothed milk are fantastic.
We are supremely pleased with the R58 and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high end machine. So, what are our "nits" we pick? Again, these are fairly minor, but here they are:
1. PID location: The plug-in point for the PID is about the worst possible location. Left side, way in underneath the machine. Since most people are right handed, this is your "inferior" side and you can't quite reach it by touch. So, you have to get your head down on the counter and carefully insert the PID Pin connectioh or risk bending a pin. It seems like an afterthought location. How about putting it on the upper back or closer to the edge on the right or somewhere easily accessible?
2. Plumbing: SCG now includes a metric/english brass adapter which is a good thing. However, the adapter comes stuck to the inlet valve for convenience, but not water tight installed. They don't tell you this, and it looks installed. There are no instructions on exactly how the inlet, hose and adapter need to be configured. It took us 2 trips to the hardware store and two calls to SCG to get it right. A one page instruction sheet on how exactly to connect the various parts with a minimum of mistakes should be included.
3. Instructions- The included video is essentially useless. It is nothing more than a video of the "how to use the machine" section of the manual. The manual doesn't include a bunch of useful information. For example, every picture in the manual shows the right side pressure gauge as "working", at 1 bar. However, when resting there is no pressure to the brew head, so the right side gauge is at 0 until you pull. Well, given the manual always looks like that gauge should work, we thought something was wrong. Manual should explain the brew head pressure gauge only shows pressure when you pull a shot. There are other similar discrepancies or lack of info in the manual.
As we said, these are pretty small nits and we still would buy the R58, even knowing the "nits." We are very pleased, and way over caffienated from enjoying the machine so much! (Posted on 9/2/2014) - a real machine for real espresso connoisseurs at home.Review by Charlie
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I got into espresso again due to the "modernist" food movement in Seattle. In Los Angeles I was staying near Espresso Profetta and discovered the joy of being near a synesso machine, filled with Espresso Vivace beans. Then I left. And ... there was only Starbucks. So I looked at GS/3's and Hydras and all the stuff that would make put that syrupy black liquid on tap on my home. I was hesitant to buy such an "inexpensive" machine- one that I could only guess if it would output the quality I was expecting.Price Value Quality
So here's the verdict: Skip the "pressure ramping" gimmick or any of the other nonsense they're trying to upsell. This machine gets it right- perfectly right. It looks great in my kitchen. It outputs EXACTLY the quality I would expect from Intelligentsia, Vivace or any of the other "synesso shops" that have popped up in Los Angeles lately.
The R58 to me is great coffee without hipsters. If I had to buy it again I'd say the La Spazial "Dream" would be a candidate- though as a beginner the lack of volumetric on the R58 force me to time shots and measure volume, which forces me to learn it correctly. And if I were running a cafe... the GS/3 would be the "one"- just because of its 20 amp and volumetric- allowing you to "fire and forget". (Posted on 4/23/2014) - An Almost perfect Espresso Machine. Beautiful! Review by Steve San Diego
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First observation, this thing is a work of art. It is beautiful. Over the years I've owned several quality machines, including a La Pavoni Manual, a Rancilio Rocky, an Andreja Premium, and an Izzo Duetto Dual Boiler. This is hands down the best of all of them. It is very easy to make a great shot of espresso in this machine, and it quickly produces perfectly frothed micro-foam with its Naval Boiler facsimile powerhouse of a Service boiler. It far more forgiving of tamp, grind and other parameters than the other machines I have owned. It is hard to NOT get a good shot. I can train a neophyte to pull a good shot in 5 minutes. When you get the grind right, the amount of coffee correct and the tamp correctly performed, you will almost always get a "God Shot". Very consistent. No flushing, no waiting, just keep pulling shots.Quality Price Value
I keep the PID controller connected, and monitor the recovery until I get a good feel for the machine. The machine's brew boiler recovery time is exceptionally fast, and is about 15-20 seconds. Nothing like a 1400 Watt heating element. That's less time than it takes to knock out your portafilter grounds and then refill it. Because it is 15 amp only machine, with brew boiler priority over the two boilers, it has a minor quirk. One boiler can run at a time, but they are quickly switched on and off by an internal microprocessor to maintain temperature stability, and to keep the total instantaneous current load below 15 amps. You can steam milk first, and go right into brewing coffee, as the brew boiler gets priority from the machines's internal Microprocessor. If you choose to pull your shots first, pause for about 30-45 seconds before you steam milk. That gives the machine time to recover the brew boiler temperature, at which time it switches the Steaming boiler back on line. If you don't wait, you will run out of steam midway through steaming your milk. Once again, monitor the PID controller and wait for the default display of the brew Boiler to reach its preset temperature. It's set at 105C at the factory. That a good for a dark roast, but I use Lavazza Top Class, a medium roast, and prefer a setting of 106C. My experience and preference is higher Brew temps for lighter roasts and vice versa. Anyway, it recovers quickly, and you're off to steaming your milk.
It makes a lot of steam. I switched the tip from the 1.5mm holed tip to the provided 1.2mm holed tip. A small crescent wrench works well. It will heat a small carafe of milk a little too quickly to make good foam with the larger tip. For larger quantities, say 16 ounces + when you're making multiple lattes, use the larger 1.5mm tip. For best results and to avoid overly frothy milk, Don't angle the tip at first, and keep it aligned vertically just below the milk's surface, allowing a small hiss of air to be injected into the milk, until the temp is between 100-110F, then submerge the tip at an Angle of about 15-30 degrees, and let the milk swirl until it's about 150-155F. No more than 160F to avoid scalded milk.
Is this machine better than a single boiler or a single boiler hear exchange machine? Yes, way better. It is far superior to my Andreja Premium, which I've owned for 10 years. It is far better than my 1st generation Izzo Duetto, which I thought that machine was heavily flawed and unreliable. That's why it's now a 3rd Gen Machine. I understand the newest version of the Izzo Duetto rocks, but it still suffers from lack of cup clearance between the brew head and drain tray.
Expensive yes, but ITS WORTH IT! Did I mention it's very beautiful sitting on your counter! (Posted on 2/8/2014) - Great Machine Overall. Pay attention to plumbing!Review by J White
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One quick bit of autobiography...this is my third "Prosumer" class espresso machine in seven years. My first love, an Isomac Tea, eventually replaced with the rotary/plumbed Quickmill Vetrano and now the dual boiler/PID Rocket R58.Quality Price Value
Pros:
External controller - I don't intend to fiddle with it much except to adjust the temp for new coffee blends and occasionally turn on the steam boiler, so I like the fact that the classic styling is not ruined with a glaring digital display. One of the main reasons I picked it over other PID controlled machines, including the Vetrano 2B
Switchable Steam boiler - 90 percent of the time this machine is used for espresso but I do make milk drinks for visitors and the kids, so I like that I can turn that on and off. This is another of the deciding factors for me. FYI the time from cold to full steam is about 6 minutes.
Easily removable drip tray - Easy to remove and clean and the magnets ensure that it stays in place.
Overall aesthetic - I just really like the looks of the cup rail. It looks both elegant and sturdy, and looks like something from a professional machine. It's a petty thing but for some reason it stands out for me. The gauges are large and readable but not out of place. Little things like the real screwed on name plates, where most machines in its class have stickers, and the disk covering the expansion valve drain. And once again no glaring PID display.
Quality accessories - The portafilters and tamper that came with the machine are better quality than those provided with the other machines I've owned. The included smaller hole steam tip was a nice touch.
Cons:
Loud - For a rotary pump machine it is suprisingly loud. It has a buzzy sort of sound that seems like it might be from parts vibrating together. In addition the pump is just louder than it was on my first generation Vetrano, and has a whine when it comes up to the full 9 bar pressure. It's not horrendous but not what I expect from a rotary pump machine. I would almost knock a quality star from it for that.
Drip tray size is ridiculous - It is so shallow front to back that if you don't have a portafilter in the group you WILL have water everywhere, for example when you are cleaning the group. Of the three machines I've owned, it is the worst by far. In addition it is pretty shallow, if you are not plumbing the drain you'll be dumping it a lot (but if you're a neatnik that might not be a bad thing).
Controller connection - It is described on this site as a USB connection, I wish it was. It is actually a 25 pin serial connection that can be tricky to connect if you are not looking directly at it, and if you're a ham handed person you could potentially bend pins.
British Plumbing fittings - This is a real gotcha! The water fitting on the machine and on both ends of the supplied hose are a British fitting. You are simply not going to connect this with anything in your house without an adapter, and you will not find one at the local hardware store. One can be purchased from Seattle Coffee Gear separately. My only knock against SCG. Some sort of adapter to US standard plumbing fitting could only cost a few bucks at cost, pitch one in the box SGC! I was really frustrated when I found this out and had to wait for one to be mailed. To their credit SGC did send an adapter out for free, but it would have saved me some time and frustration if they had just done that up front. Good thing it has a tank!
Overall Impressions:
I am not an expert on milk drinks but I found that using the included optional steam tip did make it easier to froth smaller amounts of milk, which is all I ever do, and it seems to have more than enough steam power.
Overall I love this machine and I'm happy with the purchase. It looks great, and the build quality seems excellent. Most importantly, it makes a great espresso. I would definitely buy it again and would recommend it to others. Even with it's flaws, I think it is a five star machine. (Posted on 2/7/2014) - Very nice machineReview by Bill
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Got this a couple weeks back. Due to traveling, I've had about a week to get dialed in. At this point, I'm very happy with my Cappuccino (milk covers a number of sins) and getting closer on my EspressoPrice Value Quality
In short, really like the machine. The build is very solid. The valves for steam and hot water are very positive - no cranking down hard to close. And, most importantly, the temp and pressure are always consistent. So any 'defects' are my technique as this machine really seems to be able to make a great cup.
I put the machine slightly low on price rating for only one reason - I suspect a cheaper machine could make just as good a shot. However, the build quality and design are probably what you are paying for and those seem worth it if you've got the cash.
One minor complaint ... Rocket claims the machine was set at 9bar out of the factory. Maybe it was, but it wasn't set there when it got to my house. My first shots were barely getting to 7bar. Now I'm one of those geeky engineer types so I was pretty sure I could figure out how this thing should work and, even with the blind basket in the portafilter, it couldn't get past 7.5bar. So I pulled out my tools. Turned out the locking nut on the pump adjustment under the machine was barely tight. So, either they never got it set or they didn't lock it down and things moved (not sure I buy that). Anyway, a few 'turns and tests' later and I've got it dialed in (actually, may be a little high but close enough). If you're not handy, this might be a bit of a pain. So, if you get one, check the pump pressure. On the upside, the adjustment is pretty easy to make.
All in all though, great machine. Consistent performance. Never have to wait for hot water, steam or a pull. With that plus the build quality, I would recommend this to others. (Posted on 12/22/2013) - High quality, serious espresso machine with a few flawsReview by Bruce
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Pros: 1. Heavy and solid. One doesn't have to hold the machine to install the portafilter for extraction. 2. Steam, water, and group-head valves operate very smoothly. 3. Very nice warming tray - cups warm and ready to go. 4. Quiet pump.Price Value Quality
Cons: 1. Drip tray too small - one is constantly cleaning up spillage due to too small a surface area for normal extraction procedures. 2. Absence of reservoir gauge. 3. Absence of timer clock. 4. I'm still having trouble getting a nice, dry "puck" with extractions. 5. Configuration of steam wand, water wand, group-head and lever results in crowded ergonomics - one has to carefully negotiate a path to the lever to initiate an extraction. (Posted on 12/5/2013) - Great MachineReview by Mike D
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I've owned this machine for 8 months and use it everyday. It works as advertised. It makes great espresso's, lattes and just about anything else you would want to create with it.Price Value Quality
Bottom line is you get what you pay for and I wouldn't hesitate to buy this machine again. (Posted on 11/18/2013) - Just buy it. Review by WanderingMoo
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I could have easily talked myself out of buying this machine. I'm so glad I didn't. It's quite simply makes the best tasting espresso I've ever had. Any complaints are sadly on me, not the machine. Just buy one and smile.Value Quality Price
Oh - and a plug for SCG - Great people, great service. (Posted on 11/1/2013) - Wow!!! What a machine!!Review by Espresso NOOB
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This is my first and only espresso machine. I tried something that was a few hundred dollars less at first, and was very disappointed. The R58 is amazing. Café Crema is my favorite drink and It took me a while to learn to get decent results. My wife loves Cappuccino and needless to say, it also was quite a task for me to learn to steam milk with good results. That's all learning curve stuff, but the R58 made it a pleasure to learn on. Loads of steam, perfect pressure all the time every time....even when making 1 drink after another. At first I was surprised by the small size of the water boiler, but the recovery time on it is amazing. I opted to plumb the water feed and drain and even though it made the install a bit more complicated, I'm so glad I did. This machine is made with all top of the line commercial components. It's truly a work of art. (Posted on 5/11/2013)Price Value Quality - EXCELLENT EXPRESSO MACHINEReview by Veronica V.
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This is Excellent machine... the finish and construction is so beautiful, is like jelewery in our kitchen.Price Value Quality
we are very happy.
The ROCKET R 58 is like a Ferrari strong and powerful
vs with (Expobar Brewtus IV-R) is 100% diferency.
Thank you so much Seattlecoffeegear excellent service....
♥ ♥ ♥
Excelente maquina de cafe, el acabado y la construccion es hermosa, es una joya en nuestra cocina.
estamos muy contentos.
The ROCKET R58 es como un Ferrari fuerte y poderoso
comparada con (Expobar Brewtus IV-R) es 100% total diferencia.
Muchas gracias Seattlecoffeegear por su excelente servicio.
Veronica V. (Posted on 4/20/2013) - Fantastic machine!Review by Mudgey
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This is a fantastic machine, it is really solidly built and weighs a ton. The finish is awesome and looks fantastic in our kitchen. During the first few times using the machine I found a puddle of water growing on the counter top under the machine. A quick call to SCG soon determined that the metal pug in the bottom of the drip tray needed to be tightened, doing this cured the problem.Price Value Quality
My only question is why the brew head pressure gauge only ever gets to the bottom of the green section of the dial. So what is the rest of the green section needed for?
All I need to do now is to be able to pull great shots consistently and this is down to me.! (Posted on 4/12/2013)
