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IMS Competizione Filter Baskets
A few weeks ago I had a couple of new toys arrive for the Londinium I. A pair of IMS baskets, a Competizione B70 2T 26.5H and one called simply 'The Single'. The B70 basket is the one I've spent most time getting to know.
My regular basket before this was a ridge-less Synesso double basket which I found quite easy to get my distribution and dose right. I have been quite happy with this basket, preferring it to the VST double which I have around the place. I found the VST quite finicky to get used to with the limited times that I'm making espresso (probably 4 -5 a day during week days). I was hoping that the IMS basket would give me the best of both worlds, the ease of the Synesso and the flavour distinction of the VST.
So far my hopes have been proved right. It is more finicky than the Synesso, but a lot less than the VST. While the flavours aren't quite as good as the VST, the extra attention required for the dose and distribution have been worth it, as the flavours are quite superior to the Synesso IMHO. Funnily enough I've gone back to a style of distribution and tamping that I last used when I owned a Giotto.
Physically, the ridged IMS basket sits between the straight sided VST and the gently curved Synesso, and I think this has a lot to do with the improved favours that I'm tasting, as it compares well to the VST (when I get that one right!). IMS have their own propriety way of sizing, locating and shaping the holes in the bottom of the basket which would also play a part in the way it delivers the flavours.
I've just replaced the seals in my Londinium I today so I'll be going back and revising myself across all three baskets and see if my initial observations over the last couple of weeks still ring true.
In the photos attached, the order from left to right is, the IMS B70 2T 26.5h, VST 20g and Synesso double. I've also included a quick shot of 'The Single'. 'The Singles's claim to fame is that it doesn't require a change in grind setting when swapping between a double basket and itself. I haven't played all that much with to see if that claim is accurate yet, and probably won't for another couple of weeks while I play with the other three baskets.
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