Hoping to get some advice on buying my first semi-automatic machine.

I have been using the Flair Pro for the last couple of years but would prefer to not deal with the issues with temperature regulation (especially as I like a lighter roast). I am now also really enjoying milk drinks so would like a steam wand.

Relevant bits of information:

- Likely 2-4 drinks most days

- Would like to work on my milk steaming and latte art

- I have a good enough grinder (but may upgrade for single dosing in the future)

- I am in an extremely hard water area and haven’t decided how I’m going to manage that so any guidance (or notes on machines super prone to scale issues) welcome.

- Budget: sub £1000, preferably sub £800

- Would be willing to buy used but would rather not mod.

Thanks for any help!

    Welcome to the forum…I think with the budget you have in mind a used machine would be a sensible purchase, many good machines come up regularly on here.

    Contact me

    Seriously, please consider using bottled water,….much as I’m not a fan…. having to tear down my Mara X after moving from a soft water area to Limestone Country has modified my attitude….
    Now using distilled water with Potassium Bicarbonate ( the Late Dr R Pavlis recipe courtesy of Home-Barista) Or if you’re in the UK, an Osmio seems a sane option.
    As a Flair Pro owner for my work travel, I can heartily endorse the Mara X after 2 previous trouble free years of home use (personal roast profile preference for espresso being the light side of medium).
    It’s a very decent machine offering highly reliable performance and temperature stability….but please read Dave C’s intro for using it carefully first, you will be a happier person.

    I’d consider remineralising zero water or reverse osmosis, zero water works out as more expensive in the long run but you only need a jug rather than a full RO machine which will cost more up front. Saves the plastic from buying bottled and means you have more control over the water’s properties - lots of simple recipes on here too so you don’t need a chemistry degree to understand them!