dutchy101 I haven’t taken off the cover yet - not sure if this is normal or whether it’s indicative of a leak?
If it’s as soon as the steam boiler reaches approx. 100C - you’ll hear it and no more hissing afterwards, then it should be normal.
If you see condensation afterwards, then it’s not normal.
So you could let the machine warm up and then place the cup and see if it collects anything afterwards.
As you said yourself, take the top off and go from there.