Portafilter espresso machine by Ascaso, model Steel Duo PID in its V3 230 V version, in white with wooden knobs. It is a semi-professional machine for home or office with two independent thermoblocks, one for coffee and one for steam, so espresso can be pulled while milk is textured; it also has a separate hot-water outlet. PID control sets brewing and steam temperatures independently, and it offers pre-infusion, single and double shot programming, power-saving modes and a shot timer on the display. It uses a professional 58 mm portafilter, an analogue pressure gauge, an adjustable over-pressure valve and a no-burn steam wand. The V3 adds a quieter vibratory pump, a redesigned hydraulic circuit for steadier shot volumes, anti-slip feet, a stainless-steel back panel and a new drip tray.
When choosing a portafilter machine at this level, look at whether coffee and steam have separate boilers or thermoblocks, the temperature control, the portafilter size (58 mm is the professional standard) and the space available. It needs a separate grinder able to grind fine and evenly. This is the European 230 V version: not to be confused with the 120 V North American model. According to UK sellers it is ready in about 3 minutes, and about 10 minutes of warm-up lets the group head stabilise.
The data shown comes from the documentation published by the manufacturer; in case of divergence the official datasheet prevails. The product is covered by the three-year legal guarantee of conformity (Spanish RDL 1/2007).
