i was unexpectedly copied in to an email that our customer wrote to someone who had written to him asking about how he was finding the LONDINIUM I – P
this is that email verbatim, which came with the above image attached:
The L1-P has to be plumbed in, runs on 220V, can do longer preinfusions, and is better at higher volume and recovering from high demands. When you get the machine you chop off the plug and wire on whatever plug you need for the 220 outlet you have. You can get that plug at Lowes, but you do need a 220V outlet in your house. For clearance of the lever, it’s no problem for us, and our shelves are 12″ deep and 20″ above the countertop (and also halfway finished, haha).
The coffees from it have been fantastic. My last machine was an Aurelia. The shots are roughly the same, maybe a little sweeter, almost like it’s pushing all the good flavors forward and toning down any bitterness and off flavors. The preinfusion and natural pressure decrease of the lever at the end of the shot are making a noticeable difference in the cup. I drink lots of S.O. bright coffees, and this is highlighting the acidity beautifully. I also had a blend of a Guatemala and Sumatra with a lot of body, and it churned out some rich syrupy caramel from that coffee. Gotta have a great grinder as well of course.
Re: the Linea Mini, I haven’t used it but I would guess this is head and shoulders above that. I wouldn’t even put the Mini or Rocket in the same conversation with this machine. This thing is a tank. Best comparisons are probably 1 group Linea, Slayer, Synesso, GS3. But the lever is so satisfying. In my mind, the quality, fun, and quietness of this machine, as well as the ability to get it new and maintain it all myself, made it a no-brainer over those other machines.
As far as concerns, it seems to have significantly less group head clearance than other machines I’ve worked with, which just means smaller doses and smaller yields, not a huge deal but good to know up front. You’ll also need to order a plumbing part from Espresso Parts to convert the machine’s inlet for north american plumbing fittings. Finally you’ll need to pay a few hundred bucks in customs taxes and import duties.
I’ve included the Londinium fellow, Reiss, as he has proven helpful in troubleshooting and general questions, and he may be able to answer some of your questions better than I can.
Best,
km