Bezzera DUO DE Overview
The DUO DE is a true marvel that blends tradition with modern elements for a painless brewing experience that doesn’t disappoint. Just like on the Matrix DE model, using the intuitive touch screen display you can control the brew and steam boiler temperatures by adjusting their respective PIDs, all the while, a third PID automatically regulates the temperature in Bezzera’s specially designed, electronically heated group head. This is a step up from the Matrix and DUO MN models.
Features and Performance
Within a few clicks you can program the machine to turn on and off at particular times, change from reservoir to plumbed operation, and instruct the machine to backflush itself. Another major upgrade from the MN version is the DUO DE’s volumetric brewing capability, which is our favorite feature. You can program four different shot volumes or brew manually, because Bezzera is all about options and we are here for it.
They also let you choose between plumbed and reservoir operation, and, another new addition, choose which boiler has priority during heat up. Or, you could just program your DUO DE to turn on automatically before you wake up so it’s ready to help you face the day as soon as you wake up.
The Bezzera DUO DE features the same automated preinfusion as found on the Matrix DE model, and operation is the same. Brewing is easy using the intuitive push button and toggle operation; each function designated by a stylized icon. Steaming too, the DUO DE’s rosewood steam knob toggles on for powerful steaming, and flipping it up locks it into place for an uninterrupted stream.
We’ve found that you can get really amazing shots just pressing one of those brew buttons if you take the time to dial in the preinfusion and shot times. Of course, you can also brew manually and experiment as is your wont.
Why You Should Get It
The DUO DE is as dynamic as it is reliable; it will have your back for years. The touchscreen display is a pleasure to use, and offers a surprisingly deep level of functionality and control. The electrically heated group supplements temperature stability, which is already very stable thanks to the dual boilers. Finally, the volumetric controls are great for anyone who wants the power of a prosumer machine but who enjoy the convenience of automatic brewing.
Programmable Volumetric Brewing
There are five brew buttons located on the front of the machine for a single, double, septuple, octuple shot brewing, or manual use. Four buttons can be programmed to dispense your preferred volume of espresso, and the manual button serves the dual purpose of pulling manually controlled shots as well as programming the volumes of the other buttons.
Triple PID Thermostats
The DUO DE offers you total control with triple PID thermostats. You can regulate the steam boiler within a range of 212°F to 266°F, and the brew temp within 190°F to 204°F. The temperature of Bezzera’s proprietary group is also maintained by a thermostat. Grant priority to one boiler over the other during heat up, or allow them to default to alternating priority.
Electrically Heated Group Head
The DUO DE’s group is a specialized and electrically heated group head designed for maximum temperature stability. The group head is heated by two dedicated heating elements and controlled by a PID thermostat. The dual elements help to provide even heating to the group head to aid in maintaining temperature stability.
In-House Production
Bezzera is one of the only espresso machine manufacturers to not only assemble its own machines in house, but design many of their own components and assemble those, too. So, rather than buying components externally and designing their machines around them, Bezzera thoughtfully designs each element, bringing them together into a beautiful whole.