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Cuprajake fill rate with the lever can be controlled, there’s virtually no drippage on incline, and then I sharp ramp to full pressure (which I’ve measured out past 30ml/s of ramp speed). I’ve found those two things make a massive difference to grind size needed. Can’t get those things the same way on a machine that both wets slowly and ramps to pressure gradually, even if headspace and puck depth is matched up.
Even Sheldon (Sworks) wont use his step-down basket on the DE1 - the Slayer he’s got outputs 20ml/s, so he gets shots he prefers from it.
I’m glad you love the DE1. It’s a great machine, but I get better tasting espresso from the Streitman, which is enough for me to sell the DE1 and be open-minded about there being other machines and levers that can do what I personally want, better than it can.