In 2018 Gaggia redefined the entry point for premium home espresso with the Classic Pro. Incorporating feedback from home baristas around the world, the Classic Pro debuted with a commercial steam wand and a fresh design and fully Italian origin. Just like real evolution the Classic Evo Pro has undergone a series of small but vital changes that elevate its performance and relevance among an increasingly coffee savvy user base.
Before going any further it’s important to note that the version of the Classic Pro being sold by Whole Latte Love in North America is unique to our market and is equipped with an updated OPV that is different from Evo Pros sold elsewhere in the world.
What’s New
The OPV
By far the most exciting improvement to the Evo Pro is the ability to achieve prosumer style 9 bar extractions thanks to the inclusion of a new OPV. It’s no secret that modding the Classic Pro with a lower pressure OPV spring is one of the most common aftermarket upgrades that people perform on their machine. After much research and testing an OPV was selected for inclusion with the North American Evo Pro. That means “no” to voided warranties and more importantly “yes” to brewing at 9 bar of pressure.
New Portafilters
One of the more subtle changes, the Classic Evo Pro comes with a new polished stainless steel 58mm commercial portafilter instead of the previous chrome-plated brass one. Between the two, there’s roughly a 1g difference in mass with the new portafilter feeling just as hefty in your hand. It comes with the same stock single and double commercial baskets as well as a 2-way pin and a commercial double basket. It’s also compatible with our premium baskets from Baristapro, BIT and IMS.
Where things differ between the two is that the new steel portafilters are highly polished and free of the visual imperfections sometimes present after the chrome plating process.
The Brew Group
Gaggia’s update to the brew group is a perfect example of putting emphasis on design over dollars. To preserve the aesthetics of the brew group which was previously made of chrome-plated brass that could flake or peel over time, Gaggia opted to design a new polished steel cover that wraps around the brass group. Not only is the visible brass behind the cover a visual treat, but the steel cover extends to the inside of the machine as a mounting plate for both the boiler and pump to reduce noise while brewing.
Anti-Scale Boiler Coating
An unseen but not unsung improvement, the boiler on the Evo Pro now features an inert and food safe coating designed to reduce corrosion and scale buildup. This improvement aims to extend the longevity of the machine and ensure better long term performance by reducing the likelihood of scale buildup and all of its associated issues.
Wrapping Up
The Classic Evo Pro is a welcome update to an already legendary machine. Refreshed for the needs of modern home baristas and built to last, it’s a machine that will pave the way for a new generation of coffee enthusiasts. The Gaggia Classic Evo Pro is available now for pre-order at Whole Latte Love and will be shipping 07/07/2023.
$649.00
Be sure to follow us on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram for even more ways to level up your barista setup and skills!