verybarista IMS Big Bang 58mm Precision Filter Basket H23.5 — 18–20g Double, Concentrated Center Flow for Sweeter Extraction

The IMS Big Bang H23.5 is a precision 58mm espresso filter basket engineered to concentrate flow toward the center for a more even double-shot extraction and sweeter cup profile.

This IMS Big Bang basket rethinks hole placement to steer liquid flow from the puck center outward, offering a flatter bottom and a dense central perforation pattern that changes how coffee extracts in bottomless portafilters. Built for 18–20 g double shots and designed for 58–58.5 mm tampers, the H23.5 model emphasizes sweeter, more uniform extractions while minimizing channeling. It’s manufactured by IMS in Italy and fits a wide range of E61-style group heads.

How does the hole pattern affect extraction?

The Big Bang basket shifts many more perforations toward the center and reduces the spacing between those holes. That concentrates the initial flow through the puck’s core, encouraging a consistent extraction front and limiting early peripheral washouts. The outcome is a more uniform draw and a perceptible increase in sweetness for many blends.

• 585 centrally grouped holes for focused flow
• Reduced distance between central holes for even saturation
• Flat bottom design supports stable puck bed and consistent contact

Will this basket work with my machine and portafilter?

The H23.5 Big Bang is made for 58–58.5 mm tampers and has a 70 mm border, so it fits most E61 group head portafilters and many commercial home machines. IMS lists compatibility across a broad range of brands and E61-style systems, but always confirm the portafilter diameter and ridge profile on your specific machine. The basket is ridgeless, so check that your portafilter accepts ridgeless or standard baskets without interference.

• Designed for 58–58.5 mm tampers and E61 group heads
• 70 mm external border — measure your portafilter lip before purchase
• Ridgeless profile — ensure your holder accepts ridgeless baskets

What grind, dose, and coffee types suit the Big Bang H23.5?

This model is calibrated for double doses of roughly 18–20 g and performs best with medium-to-dark or naturally sweet coffees where enhanced sweetness is desirable. Because it tends to mellow acidity, very bright or citrus-forward light roasts may lose some of their lively character if used with this basket. Dialing grind and dose to achieve balanced resistance is important to realize the basket’s uniform extraction benefits.

• Optimal dose: 18–20 g for double espresso
• Best with balanced, chocolatey, or naturally sweet beans
• Use caution with light, highly citric coffees to avoid flattening brightness

How does the Big Bang change everyday workflow and maintenance?

Using the Big Bang does not require new brewing mechanics, but you may need small adjustments to grind size, dose, and distribution to find the best shot. The ridgeless form and central-hole focus work exceptionally well with bottomless portafilters to visually monitor extraction. Routine cleaning is the same as other stainless steel baskets; backflushing and periodic soaking remove oils and fines for consistent performance.

• Minor dial-in of grind and dose typically needed
• Excellent visual feedback with bottomless portafilters
• Standard stainless-steel cleaning: backflush and soak as needed

Who this is for: The IMS Big Bang H23.5 suits home baristas and pros using E61-style machines who want more even extractions and a sweeter-tasting double shot without changing their machine. It’s particularly appealing to users who pull shots with bottomless portafilters and those using medium-to-dark roasts that benefit from reduced channeling and heightened sweetness. If you favor very bright, citrus-forward single-origin light roasts, test carefully — the Big Bang can soften acidity and alter flavor balance.