Slayer Espresso Machines recently unveiled the Steam Single, a new one-group espresso machine that combines evolutionary design, accessibility, and premium quality. We talked about the new release directly with the company that explained the new technolocial andavancements of the machine.
What are the technological advancements incorporated in the Steam Single compared to its predecessors, the Steam EP and Steam LP? When exactly the idea of the new Steam Single was born?
“The development of the Steam Single began in earnest in late 2022, though the concept had been considered on and off since the release of the Slayer Steam range. This model marks a milestone for Slayer, as it is the first machine built on a new electronics platform that will serve as the foundation for future products.
A key innovation in the Steam Single is its ability to run from an internal reservoir, a first for the brand, making it more accessible to a wider audience, especially for home use. For those seeking a more traditional setup, the option to plumb in the machine is available through an accessory kit.
The Steam Single also introduces a unique dual flow rate system, enabling users to toggle between two distinct pre-infusion water paths. This level of control ensures a consistent, repeatable experience when brewing espresso, allowing baristas to save and replay their favourite shots throughout the day.
While it draws inspiration from the Steam LP, the Steam Single brings a fresh technical approach, combining user-friendly features with Slayer’s signature commitment to quality and precision.”
What were the primary design challenges faced during the development of the Steam Single, and how were they overcome?
“The initial concept of the Steam Single dates back to the development of the commercial Slayer Steam, but scaling down the proportions of a commercial machine to a smaller, more compact form presented several challenges. The commercial machine’s size and components didn’t translate easily into a smaller format, which required a complete redesign of the overall packaging and technological integration.
By rethinking these elements, Slayer managed to preserve the high-quality performance expected from the products, while making it more suitable for smaller spaces and individual users.”
Thanks to the machine’s compact intuitive barista dashboard, both home users and baristas are allowed to manually dial in their preferred settings, and record their desired shots. How important is for the Steam Single to be user friendly?
“User-friendliness is essential to the Steam Single’s design, and Slayer’s goal was to make coffee making an enjoyable and accessible experience for everyone. The intuitive barista dashboard allows both home users and professionals to manually dial in their preferred settings and record shots with ease, making it a pleasure to use.
The fun and satisfaction that comes from making coffee were key drivers behind the design, and Slayer has made sure that the machine offers both ease of use and the precision needed to craft exceptional espresso. By keeping the process enjoyable and straightforward, the brand reinforces its mission to “Make Coffee Better.””
Is the Steam Single machine capable of handling the high demand of chain stores, or is it better suited for smaller coffee corners?
“With just one group, the Steam Single has natural limits in terms of capacity. However, its professional-grade build, including commercial-grade boiler elements, ensures that it can deliver consistent performance.
The addition of an accessory plumbing kit allows it to be adapted for more demanding applications, but overall, the machine is best suited for smaller coffee corners, pop-ups, or even home kitchens. Its design aims to offer professional results in more intimate settings rather than catering to the high demands of chain stores.”
Does the Steam Single offer the ability to monitor its operation, anticipate problems, save energy, and utilize telemetry?
“At launch, the Steam Single does not feature telemetry capabilities, but it does include power-saving functions. These allow the machine to enter a low-power mode during scheduled times, reducing energy consumption when not in use.
If the user needs to operate the machine during these periods, it quickly returns to full operating temperature, ensuring minimal downtime. This energy-saving approach aligns with Slayer’s commitment to efficiency, even if telemetry and other advanced monitoring features are not yet available.”
How does the Steam Single balance innovation with the traditional aspects of espresso machine design and functionality?
“The Steam Single, like all Slayer products, is centered around the joy of coffee making. It integrates advanced technology, such as the dual flow rate system and internal reservoir, while maintaining the fundamental principles of espresso making that the brand is known for. The design ensures that every user interaction supports a seamless, enjoyable coffee-making experience.
Slayer’s commitment to innovation is balanced by the respect for the traditions of espresso, ensuring that the Steam Single remains true to the brand’s core values of craftsmanship and quality, while introducing modern features that enhance the process.”
How does Slayer plan to continue its legacy of innovation in the specialty coffee industry over the next few years?
“Slayer’s future innovations will continue to focus on making coffee better for everyone. The next generation of products, built on the same electronics platform as the Steam Single, will further explore new ways to improve the coffee-making process.
Slayer’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in specialty coffee remains strong, and the brand will continue to introduce new machines that make it easier and more enjoyable for baristas and coffee enthusiasts alike to craft exceptional espresso.”
