I've been using La Marzocco baskets and portafilters for many years
now. Although I have always had channeling issues with the LM ridged
basket, I preferred the taste to all other baskets I tried. The so
called LM "ridgeless" was never a "real" LM basket and still didn't
have the same taste to me, although there was less channeling.
I should add that I almost always use Vivace Vita, as I live in the
Seattle area and pick it up fresh and locally. This bean is far more
prone to channeling than many other beans I have tried. I used to
home roast, but I don't have the time for it anymore, although I
enjoyed the process and results.
A few months ago I got intrigued reading about VST baskets (look on
any of the coffee forums for lots of info), and ordered an 18 gm
ridged basket. Then recently they introduced a ridgeless version and
I got one of those.
http://tinyurl.com/cbss5ou
I have noticed quite a difference! Just to add more variables into
the mix I bought a VST tamper as well. These expensive tampers are
made by Pullman in Australia, and they are beautiful. They are made
larger in diameter than the standard 58mm tamper, so they cover much
closer to the basket edge. I had been using a Schomer Ergo Tamper for
many years, and it was a big switch to the flat base (his is slightly
convex).
Channeling almost never happens anymore, and the shots are darker and
more intense in flavor. I can also get a much better ristretto with
lower volume and less blonding in a 28 second pull (or longer!).
This new setup required a drastic change in my grinder (Mini Mazzer)
adjustment to a much finer grind. I like to overfill my baskets,
about 20 grams or so. They are actually designed for this. I am not
as precision oriented as Kitt, and others, weighing each basket, etc.
Everyone will have a different tale to tell about how they prepare
their espresso, but I can guarantee that you will have a different
experience with the VST products. I am happy with my results.
Best,
Barry
___________________________________
Barry Corliss
MASTER WORKS CD Mastering
Seattle, WA (206) 282-2274
http://www.master-works.com
___________________________________
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