choose the linea classic s av if you want programmed volumetric doses. choose ee if your team wants to start and stop each espresso shot manually. neither version chooses the grind setting or tastes the coffee for you.
the letters describe how brewing is controlled. they do not tell you how many groups the machine has, whether it fits the counter or what electrical supply it needs. settle those questions separately, then compare the controls using the way your staff actually works.
what ee does
la marzocco calls ee the semi-automatic version. its operating instructions describe a brew switch that the barista presses to start extraction and presses again when the desired amount has been reached.
that means the person making the drink owns the stopping point. decide what they will watch while the shot runs and how they will check the result. if the bar uses a beverage scale, include it in the demonstration rather than discussing the machine on its own.
what av does
av is the automatic version. staff can program doses and use the brew buttons to repeat them. the instructions also describe stopping a brew manually by pressing the selected button again.
the programmed control is volumetric. it is not an integrated measurement of the espresso's weight in the cup. ask the trainer to demonstrate both normal programmed brewing and stopping a shot when needed.
program with the actual bar setup
la marzocco's quick-start guide explains that settings programmed on the first group can copy to the remaining groups, and that other groups can be programmed separately. have the trainer show which settings apply to each group, and record the approved starting settings and who may change them.
confirm the features on the quote
the current us product sheet identifies integrated shot timers for av. do not assume every feature in a general linea classic s description is included on both versions. ask the supplier to name the version, group count and selected options.
test the choice during a complete order
run through grinding, puck preparation, brewing, steaming and drink assembly. watch whether the barista needs to leave the shot to complete another task. i would compare av and ee using those movements rather than deciding that automatic always means faster or manual always means better coffee.
include training and installation
confirm the machine's exact power, water and drainage requirements with the installer. ask who handles startup, button programming and staff training, and which instructions will stay with the cafe.
couplet sells and installs la marzocco equipment in los angeles and southern california. bring the staffing plan and coffee menu to the comparison, then choose the linea classic s controls that fit the team running the bar.