Profitec Pro 800 Lever Espresso Machine

Overview

For those who admire the enduring charm of old-world espresso craftsmanship, the Profitec Pro 800 Lever Espresso Machine stands as a powerful, lever-operated machine beautifully integrated with all the advantages of modern technology. Ever since its first arrival, the Pro 800 has been a permanent fixture in our office, impressively towering above the kitchen counter and consistently pulling shot after shot. Its extensive use here has led us all to agree: the lever is incredibly satisfying to pull, but it’s the extra level of control over our espresso that truly keeps us coming back. For a few moments every morning, it transports us, allowing us to embody the role of old-time baristas, meticulously crafting each cup.

Features and Performance

The secret to the Pro 800’s exceptional performance lies in something unique to lever machines: true low-pressure pre-infusion. This allows for softer, more full-bodied shots that are notably sweeter in flavor. You can achieve this by gently pulling the lever to fill the group, applying about 1-1.5 bar of pressure from the boiler to lightly soak the coffee grounds. By carefully lifting the lever further, a spring-loaded piston is released, which gradually builds pressure, and then precisely declines as the lever draws back.

This ingenious mechanism achieves a dynamic form of pressure profiling that works perfectly to unlock and highlight the diverse flavors in specialty coffee. For added control, the Pro 800 features a Gicar PID controller, artfully hidden behind the drip tray to preserve the machine’s classic aesthetic. With this PID, you’ll be able to adjust your brew temperature precisely as you like, and maintain it there, thanks to the inherent stability offered by the PID system.

Whisper-Quiet Operation and Plumbing Option

A more subtle yet significant feature is how remarkably quiet the Pro 800 can be. It’s one of the quieter machines we’ve tested, as the pump is only audible when refilling the boiler from the reservoir. To eliminate noise entirely, the Pro 800 can be plumbed in directly to a water line, in which case, water line pressure will fill the boiler in place of the pump. With the Pro 800 plumbed in, you’ll truly never hear the pump again, ensuring a completely serene brewing environment.

For the 2022 update of this machine, the Pro 800 was thoughtfully given traditional levers to control the steam and hot water valves, making it easier than ever to steam milk and dispense hot water for Americanos or tea. The updated machine also proudly showcases a pine green background for the pressure gauge, which adds a subtle pop of color without detracting from its classic, timeless look. There is also an all-new optional ECO-mode. With the ECO-mode, you can program the machine to automatically shut itself down after it sits idle for a certain amount of time, conserving energy.

Why You Should Get It

Standing at an impressive height of about 29 inches, the Profitec Pro 800 Lever Espresso Machine is best suited for those with ample space to proudly display this magnificent machine. We’re confident in saying that you’ll definitely want to showcase it, considering our exceptional experience with its performance and aesthetics. The Pro 800 is an investment in both history and cutting-edge technology, offering a deeply satisfying and highly controllable espresso brewing experience that truly sets it apart.

FAQ for this product

Q: Is the Profitec Pro 800 a dual boiler machine?
A: No, the Profitec Pro 800 uses a dipper (one-circuit) system with a single large 118 fl-oz copper boiler for both brewing and steaming.

Q: Does it have PID temperature control?
A: Yes, the Profitec Pro 800 features a Gicar PID controller (hidden behind the drip tray) for precise brew temperature adjustment and stability.

Q: What is “low-pressure pre-infusion”?
A: Unique to lever machines like the Pro 800, low-pressure pre-infusion involves gently soaking the coffee grounds with low pressure water before gradually building and declining pressure via the spring-loaded lever, resulting in softer, sweeter shots.

Q: Can the Profitec Pro 800 be plumbed into a water line?
A: Yes, the Profitec Pro 800 can be plumbed directly into a water line, eliminating pump noise during boiler refills and providing continuous water supply.

Q: What are the updates for the 2022 version?
A: The 2022 updates include new lever controls for steam and hot water valves and a stylish pine green background for the pressure gauge, along with an optional ECO-mode.