UP stands for UPDATED! These units are updated with a 3 way solenoid valve, adjustable overpressure valve, and aluminum tamper. The boldest outline, a wink to the past and a best to the future. The Dream UP Versatile espresso and cappuccino machine is the flagship of the Ascaso line. Its classic retro look is combined with the best that modern technology has to offer in a traditional style machine.
This series is dubbed the "Versatile" machine because the Dream UP Versatile machines can use either ground coffee or proportioned single serving espresso pods, also known or labeled as E.S.E.. This offers a lot of versatility in the way you brew your coffee or espresso. Not only does this machine look great in any kitchen, but it also allows you to make cafe quality espresso drinks, lattes, cappuccino, and cafe mochas.
We like the Ascaso Dream UP espresso machine for the internal design, as well. We evaluated the Ascaso line in the 2003/2004 time frame, and at that time, these machines were very anemic in the steaming department. One reason was the lack of the brass boiler that is now part of this machine.
We also like the aluminum body! Unlike other machines made of steel and painted enamel, the Ascaso Dream UP has no chance of rusting. Remember, we are using water and steam to make our favorite drinks, so steel machines will rust at some point.
In addition, the heating element is on the outside of the boiler. The benefit to this is that if your boiler runs out of water, there is very little chance of damaging the heating element - which occurs on machines with the heating element on the inside of the boiler. This feature is really important in an office environment!
