The Izzo Vivi PID Pro is a dazzling stainless steel marvel that comes in at a great price point for what's on offer. Stainless steel casing and boiler material, a powerful heat-exchanger heating element, E-61 group head, and more, Join us as we break down what makes this machine tick.
Appearance and Usability
The Vivi really speaks for itself from an appearance standpoint. This machine is a beautiful collision of stainless steel, with the material comprising the casing, frame, and boiler. This means that the Vivi has a stunning shine that will dazzle every morning. There really aren't many other machines that stand out like an Izzo, and the Vivi is no exception. The lines on this machine also offer that classic Italian style to go along with the shine. The PID controls are easily accessible along with other levers and knobs. The PID interface also houses the machine's handy shot timer. The brew lever is nice and snappy, with clear action for starting and stopping water flow. Steam controls are al easy to manage with the twist of the dial. One thing to note is that the dials themselves are plastic, but this is partly to keep them cool to the touch during use. They are high quality, durable, and look great, so we don't see it as a real issue.
In general, using this machine is a breeze. It is of course a technical brewer, but a great one to learn on. If you've used other Italian espresso machines you'll be right at home with Vivi. If you're more familiar with more entry level machines there will definitely be a learning curve. That said, it's more than worth it to learn to pull shots on a "professional style" machine like this. The only negative we can offer about using the Vivi is that the case does get very hot. Because there's not tons of clearance around the machine and its working components, you do have to be mindful to avoid getting burns.
Performance
The Vivi's performance is tough to beat at its price point. We offer some incredible machines around the $2,000 mark, and whole heartedly recommend all of them. The Vivi is no different, and if it wasn't up to snuff with the other brands we sell, it wouldn't be on our shelves. So with all of that said, what really makes this machine tick? First off, the heating element is a heat exchanger in a stainless steel, 1.8 liter boiler. This kind of heating element and volume means you'll be able to steam milk and brew while remaining temperature stable. That's a huge boon for shot and milk quality, as well as time. That, however, is just the tip of the iceberg
Other brewing elements are the powerful pump, solenoid valve, and heated E61 Group head. The group head in particular is an important piece of the Vivi puzzle. E61s help water maintain temp as it passes through the portafilter, which it also heats. The result is hot shots that are brewed at the proper temp and pressure, without any blowback or spray thanks to the solenoid valve. Overall this is a stellar machine that can churn out delicious drinks in a hurry.
Conclusion
Between powerful insides and all of that stainless, there's a reason we offer this exclusive machine. Definitely one of the best options out there at the $2,000 or less pricepoint, and a perfect upgrade from an entry level machine. Learning to brew on a Vivi is worth the learning curve! Check if out on our store
here.
