- Edited
JHCCoffee IF I were to head down this path (there would need to be significant net benefits to do so
Despite all the magic and mystique surrounding those machines, a lever is no silver bullet - just be mindful of that to avoid disappointments.
If I were you… I’d visit a retailer, or a friend, or someone who has a machine you are looking to buy and try it out first. Easily said than done, I know.
Also, for what’s worth… I had a Gaggia Classic, Profitec 700, 2 La Pavoni(s) and the Elizabeth, in that order over the past 10 years or so. The Elizabeth is the one I’ve kept the longest. I do fancy an upgrade, but when I look out there for what the alternatives are, up to the £2k mark (so approx. twice the price of the Elizabeth) the only machine I’d buy is the Bianca. But then you have the E61 which no doubt is a great group, but it has its disadvantages compared to the simplicity of the Elizabeth’s ring group.
My two pence worth anyway.