ECM Mechanika Max Espresso Machine—OPEN BOX

ECM Mechanika Max Overview

The ECM Mechanika MAX is a PID controlled smart heat exchanger espresso machine with a rotary pump. It introduces a number of firsts for ECM including the ability to program the PID to regulate the boiler based on the temperature at the brew group. It’s also the first with programmable weekday and weekend on/off timers so you can have the MAX ready to brew whenever you need it. Equipped with a plumbable rotary pump and <11" wide the Mechanika MAX will have no trouble fitting into any home espresso bar.

Features and Performance

Underneath its housing the Mechanika MAX brews with a miniature rotary pump and a PID regulated 1.9L stainless steel boiler. Unique to the MAX is its group temperature regulation which allows the PID to monitor and control boiler temperature based on the temperature at the brew group rather than simply within the boiler. Temperature can be programmed in 1 degree increments and the PID doubles as a shot timer when the brew lever is engaged. As a result, it is the only smart heat exchanger espresso machine with the precision control to regulate brew water temperature. For more traditional operation, the MAX can also prioritize steam for milk drinkers while providing a cooling flush reminder if the group is hotter than your designed temperature.

For such a compact display, ECM has packed a huge amount of functionality within the PID controller. To help with keeping up on maintenance, the MAX can be set to remind you when it’s time to backflush or when you need to replace your water filter. To save energy the ECO mode will power the machine down after a set period of time and in a first for ECM you can also designate up to two unique on and off times per weekday/weekend day to have the MAX on and ready to brew when you need it most.

From a design standpoint the Mechanika MAX shares a good amount of DNA with the Mechanika VI Slim with the same cup railings, similar wrapped body panels, and ECM styled E61 group. The steam and hot water valves have received a notable improvement, having been upgraded to spring-loaded chrome tipped joysticks found on the ECM Technika V and Synchronika espresso machines. Similar to those machines, the inclusion of a rotary pump means whisper quiet brewing and allows the machine to be connected directly to a water line.

In the box, the ECM Mechanika MAX includes the following accessories:

Single Spout Portafilter, Double Spout Portafilter, 7g Single-Shot Basket, 14g Double Shot Basket, Backflush Disc, Tamper, Group Cleaning Brush, Water Line

Why You Should Get It

The ECM Mechanika MAX is the most compelling smart heat exchanger alternative to a dual boiler espresso machine we’ve ever seen. Its compact design, flexible water sources and lower price point make it far more accessible to aspiring home baristas without sacrificing the precision temperature control that is the cornerstone of specialty coffee. Coupled with its clean and elegant design, the Mechanika MAX has made ECM’s midrange even more exciting.