Nuova Simonelli espresso machines are well-known for industry-leading engineering and performance. When you’re on the search for a new machine for your commercial or home coffee bar, you can’t go wrong with a Nuova Simonelli. Two of the most popular options from this brand are the Oscar II and the Musica. Not sure which machine best fits your needs? We break down the key similarities and differences here:
Single Brew Group
Both the Oscar II and Musica machines are equipped with a single brew group. This means that just one shot of espresso can be pulled at a time, so these products are better suited for lower volume environments. Small, intimate cafés, business settings, or home coffee bars are ideal uses for these particular Nuova Simonelli machines.
Pour-Over and Direct-Connect Options
While we’re covering the similarities between these two machines, both are available with pour-over or direct-connect configurations. If you’re purchasing for commercial use, direct-connect may be the better choice. When connected to a water line, there’s no need to refill the reservoir, which frees up time for employees.
Dosing: Volumetric vs. Manual
The options for dosing is one area in which the Musica and Oscar II differ. The Oscar II only has volumetric dosing capabilities, so it will be simple to train new hires or learn the ropes as a home espresso enthusiast. For those who prefer a higher degree of control and finesse, the Musica offers manual dosing in addition to volumetric dosing–the best of both worlds.
Boiler Indicators: Light vs. Boiler Gauge
When it comes to the boiler indicator, the Musica offers more precision. This model’s boiler pressure gauge provides accurate readings of the pressure in the boiler, so you’ll know exactly when it’s ready to use. The Oscar II, on the other hand, has a simpler boiler indicator system. When the machine is ready to go, a light on the silicone touchpad will turn on. However, the lighting system doesn’t grant the user any detailed information about boiler pressure, so it’s more of an estimate (and may require more warm-up time).
Ultimately, both the Musica and Oscar II are excellent choices for home coffee connoisseurs and small commercial settings. However, the Musica’s more advanced features make it a more appropriate choice for cafés with higher volume. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly pick for home use or slower commercial environments, the Oscar II is a great machine that’s capable of performing on par with higher-end products. Regardless of your choice, we’re confident that you’ll love Nuova Simonelli espresso machines. If you have any questions, we’d love to help. Please contact our team to discuss financing options or learn more about the products we carry.