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My Seaco
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hkeienr |
Posted on 09/30/2015 1:08 PM
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Newbie Posts: 5 Joined: July 21, 2014 |
I modified a Seaco Aroma by installing a PID to better control brew temperatures. I was able to attach the PID and relay inside the frame thus avoiding the need for clunky external project box. Looks more OEM this way I think. The PID improved this very low end (and previously incapable) espresso machine a lot. To get reasonable espresso from this machine I also roast my own beans, use a Vario Grinder, and use a bottomless portafilter. The results are reasonably good and consistent. Why use an Aroma instead of a better machine? I like the Aroma because of its small size and portability. I have to move and store it in a cabinet between uses (as my dear wife does not want any espresso machine sitting out on the counter all the time) making a larger and more capable machine less practical. Also, I only make espressos for myself so recovery time after a shot is not important at all. I did consider upgrading to a similar sized Lelit PL41TEM at one time, but I was not sure it would be much better than my modified Aroma. .
hkeienr attached the following images:
Edited by ginny on 09/30/2015 3:03 PM |
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JackH |
Posted on 10/06/2015 2:26 PM
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Administrator Posts: 1809 Joined: May 10, 2011 |
Sorry about the lack of responses. You did a great job modifying this machine. I don't make espresso myself but I can appreciate a well done modification. Is this machine in the $200 range? ---Jack
KKTO Roaster. |
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turtle |
Posted on 10/06/2015 2:47 PM
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1 1/2 Pounder Posts: 652 Joined: November 06, 2013 |
Don't know how I missed this one either. NICE clean mod. I enjoy seeing modifications that are well thought out. GOOD JOB!!!!! Mick - "Drinking in life one cup at a time"
"I'd rather be roasting coffee" Roaster 1: San Franciscan SF-1 Roaster 2: Hottop B-2K+ Roaster 3: 2 kilo Chinese drum Grinders: Mazzer Major - Forte BG (x3) Pour over: Hario - Bee House - Chemex - Kalita - Bodum Drip: Bunn CWTF15-1 & CW15-TC (commercials) Espresso: Pasquini Livia 90 auto Vacuum: Cona - Bodum Press: Frieling - Bodum Colombia |
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oldgearhead |
Posted on 10/06/2015 3:44 PM
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1 1/2 Pounder Posts: 1128 Joined: February 10, 2011 |
Did you use one of the kits from Auber Instruments?
No oil on my beans...
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hkeienr |
Posted on 10/24/2015 9:17 PM
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Newbie Posts: 5 Joined: July 21, 2014 |
Quote Did you use one of the kits from Auber Instruments? No. I bought the most of the parts on ebay for cheap. The PID was around $20, the SSR was around $6, the K thermocouple was around $3. Miscellaneous items (wire, connectors, LED light, etc.) were another $10 or so. I think the whole upgrade cost about $50. I dont' know what an upgrade kit costs but I would guess a lot more. By the way, the green LED light I installed under the steam valve lights up when the heating element is turned on by the PID or the steam button. It's nice for monitoring what the heating element is doing. I want to install one on my Gene Cafe too, but I think I'll wait until after the warranty period. Edited by hkeienr on 10/24/2015 9:31 PM Seaco Aroma (with PID) expresso machine
Gene Cafe roaster Baratza Vario grinder Bottomless portafilter |
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