The Rocket Appartamento TCA is a sleek, updated heat exchanger espresso machine that combines modern style with advanced functionality, while maintaining the core elements that define Rocket Espresso. TCA, short for "Temperature Control Adjustment," introduces a new system that uses a variable pressurestat controller to regulate the pressure and temperature within the boiler. Externally, the TCA features a refined design, with streamlined panels encasing the machine, a Rocket logo pennant on the rear, and a distinctive angular E61 brew group.

Features

• Heat exchanger system
• Boiler Capacity: 1.8 liters
• Wider drip tray
• New designed portafilter
• Boiler cover for energy savings
• Vibratory pump
• Water tank capacity: 2.5 liters
• Tank reservoir sensor

Why You Should Get It

If you're after a stylish espresso machine that produces barista-quality espresso and perfectly frothed milk, the Appartamento TCA is a fantastic option. It's ideal for coffee lovers who don't want to turn it into a full-time hobby, as it strikes a perfect balance—providing enough control for consistently great shots without losing the appeal of its design.

Signature Style: Rocket consistently excels in design. The Appartamento TCA prominently features their distinctive “R” and “Rocket” logos in multiple areas of the machine. Its redesigned casing and new portafilter are valuable enhancements to the overall aesthetic, further elevating its classic appearance.

Minimalist Interface: In line with Rocket's dedication to creating espresso machines free from over-the-top displays and digital interfaces, the Appartamento TCA employs an LED light to convey information to the barista through color, with each hue representing various operational modes like programming, brew temperature, and more.

Temperature Control Adjustment: The machine's namesake feature, the temperature control adjustment, incorporates a multi-setting pressurestat with four preset temperature options that can be chosen to match your espresso brewing and milk frothing preferences. An LED light displays the selected temperature during the programming process.

Heavy-Duty Boiler: The Appartamento features a 1.8-liter copper boiler with a 1200-watt heating element. Its steel construction offers enhanced corrosion resistance, ensuring greater durability. Additionally, the boiler’s passive heat warms the removable cup warmer located on top of the machine.

Precision Brewing

The variable pressure feature allows you to choose between four preset temperature settings (Low, Medium, High, and Very High), which can affect both coffee extraction and milk steaming pressure (0.9 to 1.2 bar). To switch modes, lift the brew lever with the machine off, then flip the power switch. The LED flashes to show the temperature:

1 flash = 196°F,
2 flashes = 200°F,
3 flashes = 203°F,
4 flashes = 208°F.

You can also enable eco mode for low-energy standby after 30 minutes.

The Appartamento TCA espresso machine brews and steams simultaneously and has a coated copper boiler for better durability. Rocket has updated its design with a curved back panel, larger knobs, a new portafilter, and a redesigned cup tray, while retaining its signature circular cutouts and adding a "Rocket" stripe on the back.