The Mechanika VI Slim is the new all-rounder for domestic use from the Neckargemünde-based espresso machine manufacturer's range. Compactly built around the famous ECM E61 brewing group, this espresso machine also fits in your kitchen and produces coffee with the perfect taste, just like the catering machines. Its inner secret is the extended pre-brewing cylinder, which enables the aroma-enhancing swelling of the espresso grounds in the portafilter under steam. Water is only pressed through the previously moistened grounds when the brewing group lever is moved. New with this version of the Mechanika: you determine the duration yourself.

Like its predecessor, the ECM Mechanika VI Slim has two separate, precisely temperature-controlled water circuits. Circulating water heats the brewing group in conjunction with a thermo-siphon system. The Mechanika VI Slim therefore keeps coffee water at the optimum brewing temperature at the same time as hot water for steam extraction - to produce creamy, firm milk foam - or for preheating cups or preparing tea. The improved feature of this model is that you can choose between three preset boiler temperatures at the touch of a button. The boiler temperature of 120 °C is recommended if you prefer darker roasted espresso. 124 °C is the right temperature for medium and lighter roasts. And let's assume you have visitors and would like to serve your guests a cappuccino. Then the preset boiler temperature of 128 °C simply allows you to froth several portions of milk without reheating.

The machine is ready for use within around 10 to 15 minutes of being switched on. The boiler pressure on the one hand and the brewing pressure on the other are clearly displayed on two pressure gauges, while the powerful vibration pump builds up the ideal brewing pressure. The brewing pressure can be individually fine-tuned using an easily accessible expansion valve. The steam and water taps are equipped with color-coded, large and therefore easy-to-operate rotary valves and an indicator light (orange) at the bottom left of the housing lights up as soon as the water supply in the fresh water tank is running low. A purely precautionary measure: should the tank run completely empty, the Mechanika VI Slim switches off automatically, but is ready for use again immediately after filling and coffee can continue to be made.

Bakelit® is a registered trademark of Momentive Specialty Chemicals GmbH.