VBM Italian Professional Espresso Machines

VBM, formally Vibiemme, is an Italian espresso machine manufacturer founded in Milan in 1976 by Carlo Ernesto Valente. Alongside its professional bar machines, the brand also develops home and low-volume espresso systems under the Domobar name.

The VBM portfolio on Mutfak10 includes the Lollo, Black Moon, Replica, Replica Pistone, Tecnique, and Domobar series. These model families differ in group count, dosing method, boiler architecture, and target service volume.

The Place of the VBM 1961 Group Design in the Brand's Identity

The VBM 1961 distribution group, developed during the brand's founding period, is a structure aimed at improving the thermal stability of the classic thermosiphon espresso approach. The group design helps hot water circulate around the group head, keeping the metal mass at operating temperature.

It should not be assumed that all current VBM machines share the same group, boiler, or control architecture. The home-oriented Domobar, the traditional professional Lollo, and the more advanced Tecnique series can use different systems.

Group temperature should be evaluated together with water quality, boiler pressure, idle time, and the barista's flushing routine. The need for a short flush after a long idle period should be determined according to the model and recipe.

Lollo and Black Moon Series

The Lollo family is aimed at different café capacities with one-, two-, and three-group options. Programmable volumetric dosing helps the barista repeat specific water volumes via the group buttons.

Black Moon models are listed in two- and three-group professional configurations. A large steam boiler, two steam wands, a hot water outlet, and programmable dosing can be used in busy milk-based beverage service.

Volumetric dosing does not automate the entire espresso recipe. Grind, coffee dose, distribution, and tamping all change what ends up in the cup. The barista should regularly check the target weight with a scale.

Replica, Pistone and Tecnique Options

The Replica series combines a classic body design with a professional group layout. Replica Pistone models are aimed at lever-based extraction and require a different barista technique from pump-driven volumetric machines.

On a lever machine, the pressure profile is formed by a mechanical spring and lever movement. Portafilter preparation, lever safety, and group temperature require staff to be trained specifically for the model.

The Tecnique series is aimed at more current control and energy management options. The exact boiler, display, PID, or profiling features should be confirmed against the model code.

Featured Highlights

• VBM was founded in Milan in 1976 and has focused on manufacturing professional espresso machines.
• The Lollo and Black Moon series serve traditional café operations with different group counts.
• Replica Pistone is lever-driven, while many other models offer pump-driven, programmable-dose operation.
• The Domobar family is a separate product class for single-group and lower-volume espresso applications.

Group and Steam Capacity When Choosing a VBM Machine

Group count should be determined by the amount of espresso to be prepared simultaneously at peak hour. A two-group model can be sufficient for many cafés, while a three-group machine requires more barista space and electrical power.

In businesses with a high ratio of milk-based drinks, steam boiler and steam wand layout takes priority. In espresso-focused boutique bars, group temperature and managing different beans can be more decisive.

Installation requires planning for water treatment, drainage, an electrical line, counter load capacity, and maintenance access. On lever models, safe range of motion for the lever must also be left clear.

VBM Espresso Machines on Mutfak10

VBM Lollo, Black Moon, Replica, Tecnique, and Domobar espresso machines can be reviewed on Mutfak10 across different group and body options. To compare the model families, you can visit the VBM professional espresso machines page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between VBM Lollo and Black Moon?

Both series are aimed at professional volumetric espresso service; body design, boiler, control, and hardware options vary by model. Comparison should be made using the technical sheets for the same group count.

Why is the VBM Replica Pistone lever-driven?

On Pistone models, extraction pressure is created by a mechanical lever and spring system. This method offers a different pressure behavior and barista technique from pump-driven machines.

Should a water filter be used with a VBM espresso machine?

Water entering the machine must be checked for hardness, alkalinity, and chlorine. A suitable filter limits scale buildup and supports the repeatability of the espresso recipe. The system should be selected based on local water analysis.