Rocket Espresso Appartamento TCA Overview
Modernized for both style and function the Rocket Appartamento TCA is a smart heat exchanger espresso machine that delivers several key updates while preserving the essential DNA that defines a Rocket Espresso machine. TCA stands for “Temperature Control Adjustment” and refers to the new system of regulation that uses a variable pressurestat controller to adjust pressure and temperature inside the boiler. From the outside the TCA’s housing is an evolution of the iconic look with more streamlined panels that wrap around the machine, a Rocket logo pennant on the back and an angular E61 brew group.
Features and Benefits
The inclusion of variable pressure delivers the ability to toggle between one of four preset temperature settings (Low, Medium, High and Very High). Changing the temperature helps to extract coffees of different origins and roast levels and will also affect steaming pressure (between 0.9, 1, 1.1, and 1.2 bar) if you use the machine to froth milk multiple times a day.
To switch between the four different temperature modes, start by lifting the brew lever while the machine is off, then flipping the power switch while the lever is raised. You’re now in programming mode. Each time you raise and lower the brew lever while in programming mode, the red LED indicator light will flash a number of times to indicate the current temperature setting:
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1 flash: ~196F (low temperature)
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2 flashes: ~200F (medium temperature)
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3 flashes: ~203F (high temperature)
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4 flashes:~ 208F (very high temperature)
While in programming mode, you can also turn on eco mode to power down to a low energy standby after 30 minutes.
As a heat exchanger espresso machine the Appartamento TCA is capable of brewing and steaming at the same time. Compared to the original Appartamento, the TCA’s brew temperature flexibility make it a better choice to satisfy a wider range of coffee preferences. The TCA also features an updated, coated copper boiler, which has a better resistance to tarnishing.
From the exterior Rocket has maintained the circular cutout panels that defined the original Appartamento while introducing several changes to streamline the design. The curved back panel now matches the contour of the feet while the new portafilter is monogrammed with the signature Rocket “R” on the chromed tip. The steam and hot water knobs have increased in size to show off more metal while E61 group features a new angular design unseen on other espresso machines. In a final touch the cup tray has been reimagined to do away with previous plastic cup railing and the back of the machine displays the word “Rocket” in a stripe down the center.
Why You Should Get It
If you’re looking for an undeniably cool espresso machine that delivers barista quality espresso and frothed milk, the Appartamento TCA is an excellent choice. For those who enjoy coffee but aren’t looking to make a full time hobby out of it, this machine threads the needle well, offering just enough control for consistently good shots, but not enough to distract from the charm of the machine.