How to Program Shot Volumes on a La Marzocco GB5 (Step-by-Step Guide)
The La Marzocco GB5 is one of the most reliable commercial espresso machines in the world — but getting your dose volumes dialled in correctly is essential for consistency across every cup. The good news is that programming shot volumes on the GB5 is straightforward once you know the steps.
This guide walks you through the exact process, whether you’re setting up a new machine, retraining staff, or recalibrating after a grinder change.
⚠️ Before You Start
Make sure your machine is fully warmed up (at least 20–30 minutes), your grinder is dialled in, and your portafilter is loaded with your desired coffee dose.
Step 1: Enter Programming Mode
On the left side of the machine, locate the Master Vortex button (the rotary dial/button on the far left group).
- Press and hold the Master Vortex button
- Keep holding until the display screen shows the water volume programming screen
- Release the Vortex button
- Press the Vortex button again — the display will begin flashing, confirming you are now in programming mode
✅ You’ll know it’s working when the screen flashes. If it doesn’t flash, repeat the hold-and-release step.
Step 2: Program Your Desired Volume
- Choose the button you want to program — either the single cup or double cup button on the group you’re setting up
- Load your portafilter with your desired coffee dose and lock it into the group head
- Press and hold the cup button you want to program (single or double)
- The machine will begin dispensing espresso — keep holding the button while the shot pulls
- When you reach your desired yield (e.g. 36g for a double), release the button to stop and save the volume
✅ The machine has now memorised that volume for that button on that group.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a set of scales under your cup while programming to hit your exact target yield. Aim for a brew ratio of 1:2 to 1:2.5 (e.g. 18g in → 36–45g out).
Step 3: Exit Programming Mode
- Press the On/Off button to exit programming mode
- The display will stop flashing and return to normal
- Run a test shot to confirm the volume is saved correctly
Programming Multiple Groups
The GB5 will theoretically copy the programmed volume to the other groups automatically. However, for the most accurate and consistent results across a busy café environment, we strongly recommend programming each group individually using the same steps above.
This ensures every group delivers the exact same yield, regardless of minor mechanical variations between groups.
| Group | Auto-copied? | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|
| Master group (left) | N/A — programmed directly | ✅ Always |
| Other groups | ⚠️ Theoretically yes | ✅ Program individually for accuracy |
Quick Reference: GB5 Volume Programming Summary
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Hold Master Vortex button until screen shows volume programming |
| 2 | Release, then press Vortex button again — screen flashes |
| 3 | Lock in portafilter, press and hold single or double cup button |
| 4 | Release button when desired yield is reached |
| 5 | Press On/Off to exit programming mode |
| 6 | Repeat individually for each group for best accuracy |
Is Your GB5 Not Responding or Behaving Erratically?
If your GB5 won’t enter programming mode, the display isn’t responding, or volumes aren’t saving correctly, it could point to a deeper issue with the control board or volumetric components. We stock genuine GB5 parts and offer professional service and repair across Australia.
Need help with your GB5? Our technicians specialise in La Marzocco service and repair in South Sydney and Eastern Suburbs. Bear Coffee machine specialize in La marzocco coffee machine.
📞 Contact Our Technical Team →