FLAIR 58 DETHRONED?: Superkop and Sonic S7 Review

Summary

In this video, Lance Hedrick explores if the Flare 58x espresso machine's dominance is over by comparing it with the Super Cop Espresso Machine and the MW3 Bomber Sonic S7. He discusses design, build quality, workflow, and performance, including temperature and pressure profiles. Lance finds the Flare 58x still holds its ground due to its thermal stability, built-in pressure gauge, and affordable price, despite the competitors' unique features and approaches.

Takeaways

• 🔥 Lance Hedrick discusses if the King of home lever espresso machines still reigns supreme or if it's been dethroned by new contenders.
• 🆚 Two competitors are evaluated: the Super Cop Espresso Machine and the MW3 Bomber Sonic S7, both around $800 compared to the Flare 58X at closer to $500.
• 🎥 A short sponsored segment for BetterHelp is included, offering a 10% discount for the first month of therapy services.
• 🆓 Lance received the MW3 Bomber for free to review, while the Super Cop was purchased after the Milan Expo.
• 🏆 Both machines will be given away through Patreon competitions, indicating Lance won't keep them.
• 🏷 The Sonic S7 is noted for its stainless steel construction and a unique lever mechanism similar to the Flare 58.
• 📏 The Sonic S7 includes a self-leveling tamper and two types of baskets for different coffee dosages.
• 🌡 Preheating is crucial for the Sonic S7 to achieve optimal brewing temperatures, unlike the Flare which retains more heat.
• 🔩 The Super Cop features a ratchet system for pressure application, differing from traditional lever mechanisms.
• 💧 The Super Cop does not require preheating and maintains temperature well, but the wooden base could be a point of failure over time.
• ☕ Despite the new machines' innovations, Lance concludes that the Flare 58X remains unbeaten in terms of performance, quality, and price.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is a comparison of two espresso machines, the Super Cop Espresso Machine and the MW3 Bomber Sonic S7, to determine if they can dethrone the popular Flare 58 espresso machine.

What is the significance of the Flare 58 in the espresso machine market?

The Flare 58 is considered a benchmark in the espresso machine market, sparking a renewal of interest in lever machines for home use and serving as a comparison standard for other machines.

What is the price range of the Super Cop Espresso Machine and the MW3 Bomber Sonic S7?

Both the Super Cop Espresso Machine and the MW3 Bomber Sonic S7 are priced around $800, which is higher than the Flare 58 that costs closer to $500 or $600 with a heating element.

What is unique about the design of the Sonic S7 espresso machine?

The Sonic S7 features a direct lever mechanism, a built-in monometer for pressure monitoring, a self-leveling tamper, and two different types of baskets for espresso preparation.

What is the workflow of the Sonic S7 similar to?

The workflow of the Sonic S7 is similar to that of the Flare 58, involving a lever mechanism to fill the chamber with water and press it down to extract espresso.

What is the issue with the thermal stability of the Sonic S7?

The Sonic S7 has a stainless steel brewing chamber that lacks thermal stability and requires extensive preheating to maintain optimal temperatures for espresso extraction.

What is special about the pressure application system of the Super Cop Espresso Machine?

The Super Cop Espresso Machine uses a ratchet system to increase pressure, which is a novel approach that makes building pressure easier on the user's arm compared to traditional lever systems.

How does the Super Cop Espresso Machine handle temperature without preheating?

The Super Cop Espresso Machine can maintain sufficient brewing temperatures without preheating, thanks to its design that doesn't rely on external heat retention like the Flare 58's silicone wrap.

What is the potential issue with the plastic water cup of the Super Cop Espresso Machine?

The plastic water cup of the Super Cop Espresso Machine is made from food-safe polycarbonate, but there's a concern about possible BPA leeching above 70°C and the long-term durability of the plastic.

What is the opinion of the presenter regarding the competition between these espresso machines and the Flare 58?

The presenter concludes that while the Super Cop and Sonic S7 offer unique features and are valid options, the Flare 58 remains unbeaten in terms of performance, quality, and price, retaining its position as the 'King' of home espresso machines.

What does the presenter suggest about the necessity of a pressure gauge on the Super Cop Espresso Machine?

The presenter notes that while the Super Cop Espresso Machine lacks a pressure gauge, users are still achieving good results, suggesting that the feel and technique can compensate for the absence of a gauge, although it adds a steep learning curve.