For baristas and coffee enthusiasts alike, the Nucleus Coffee Distributor (NCD) has long been a trusted tool. This simple, manual device has been a global staple for achieving an even coffee bed, reducing channeling, and ultimately, pulling a better shot of espresso. But what if you could take that trusted tool and elevate it with a dose of modern technology?
The team at Nucleus Coffee Tools has done just that. They’ve gone a little crazy and put electronics into the classic NCD, creating a game-changing device that's set to revolutionize your workflow. Say hello to the NCD Pulse.
Jump straight into our video.
What's the Big Deal? The NCD vs. the NCD Pulse
At first glance, the NCD Pulse looks similar to the original NCD, but it’s a little deeper. You still have the familiar adjustable height, allowing you to perfectly dial in the depth for your specific dose and basket. But the real magic is on the top. The NCD Pulse features a set of buttons that control an integrated electronic device.
This device introduces a new dimension to coffee distribution: pulse vibration technology.
When you activate the NCD Pulse, the unit spins and creates a range of vibrations. These subtle pulses work in tandem with the spinning motion to help settle the coffee bed, ensuring your grounds are perfectly level and free of air pockets. This dual-action approach of horizontal distribution and vertical settling creates a more uniform density from top to bottom, which is crucial for a consistent and delicious extraction.
A Cafe Workflow's Dream: Simple to Use, Packed with Tech
Using the NCD Pulse is incredibly intuitive and designed to be a seamless part of your barista workflow.
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Turn it on: Press the power button, and you'll feel two gentle vibrations, letting you know it's ready to go.
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Choose your intensity: The device has two vibration settings—a mild vibration for a gentle settle and a more aggressive option for a firmer bed. Simply press the single or double button to select your preferred mode.
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Spin and Settle: Just like the original NCD, you place the Pulse on your portafilter and give it three quick spins.
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Dock and Charge: The best part? As soon as you lift the Pulse from its dock, it automatically starts spinning and vibrating, ready for action. And when you’re done, simply place it back on the dock. The magnetic locators will instantly recognize the unit, stop the vibration, and begin charging the battery.
This is a game-changer for a busy cafe environment, where every second counts. The workflow is streamlined, efficient, and consistent, shot after shot.
Durability, Battery Life, and What's in the Box
The NCD Pulse is built to last. The unit feels as durable as the original, with a robust build quality designed to withstand the rigours of a high-volume cafe. It comes with a USBC rechargeable dock, which features a plastic cup and silicone cover to protect the unit’s special anti-static coating. This coating prevents coffee grinds from sticking to the blades, making cleanup a breeze.
Speaking of the battery, it's a powerful lithium-ion unit. Nucleus estimates it can handle over a thousand uses on a single charge. This means it can easily keep up with a massive cafe pumping out espressos all day, and with its convenient docking and charging system, you’ll never have to worry about running out of power mid-shift.
The NCD Pulse is available now for $299 and comes with a 12-month warranty. You can find it on our online store at artisti.com.au, along with our delicious coffee and other goodies to complete your home barista kit.
The Verdict: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
While we can’t say for certain if the NCD Pulse will lead to a better TDS reading or a more flavourful shot without extensive side-by-side testing, it's clear this is a serious tool for anyone looking to gain a competitive edge. It's a device that’s already being used by top baristas in competitions, and for a reason—it offers a level of consistency and precision that was previously unattainable.
The NCD Pulse takes the proven manual distribution method and elevates it with smart technology, reducing human variables and streamlining your workflow. It's a tool that's as "sexy looking" as the coffee shots it helps produce.
Have you had a chance to play with the NCD Pulse? Let us know what you think in the comments below!
