IMS NanoQuartz Competition Shower Screen for Rancilio RA200NT

I have a first version Silvia and have been using it for many years. I’ve made a few upgrades over the years, but never thought of replacing the screen. I really like this addition, and is totally worth it simply for ease of clean-up. I do think there’s better water distribution, but I still get dents in the puck at the first ring of holes. It does change the espresso shot since I had to adjust the grind after installing it. Perhaps the most striking change is how clean the water in the tray is compared to the OEM screen. Makes backflush and deep cleaning easier, plus almost nothing left behind to go rancid and affect flavor. I think the difference in the cup is subtle, so don’t expect a dramatic flavor change.

I have been using a Rancilio Silvia daily for 17 years and previously replaced the screen with the OEM screens, which work reasonably well when new and also right after the machine has been cleaned/flushed, but the quality and consistency of espresso shots noticeably deteriorated soon thereafter. Read some reviews of the IMS Nanoquartz screen and decided to give it a try despite the significantly higher price. Wow, what a difference. Dispersion is far more even and fine with the IMS and, so far, the Nanoquartz coating seems to keep the screen much cleaner than the OEM, so the water dispersion remains very even, shot to shot. There even seems to be far fewer instances of "tunneling" and extraction seems significantly better and more consistent, despite no change to beans used, grinder setting or the VMS filter basket used. Will have to see how long the screen coating lasts with daily use but as of now, I give it "five stars" and I have no plan to go back to the OEM screen.

IMS really did the work. I installed it on Bezzera Hobby and it's improving my extraction and espresso shots. Less coffee residue stick to the shower and the shower screen drips evenly on the whole portafilter surface.

It does help a little, but not near as much as the IMS baskets, the baskets are wonderful

Not even get a chance to try, return immediately.

I have a 17 year old Rancillio Silvia espresso machine. Fits and works perfectly. Easy to clean, does not leave grounds adhering to it. A nice piece of equipment.