Pontevecchio Lusso Lever Espresso Machine Chrome

Hands down the best espresso I have ever had... My wife agrees and she can tell between Lusso and e61 in blinnd test, between the e61 and the Lusso. Its a bargain and a workhorse, simple, easy to use and maintain. I have a single boiler e61 58mm and this provides better flavor, clarity, complexity, body, amazing for light roast and specialty coffees, amazing Ristretto!!! It not a chain shop cup of coffee, its espresso excellence. I've had espresso at local roasters, independent shops, and chains and this machines excels at making awesome espresso consistently; temp stability due to large boiler, consistent temps, amazing steam power, can leave on for hours if you choose, heats up in 15 minutes.... I have the 2 group. A simplistic work of art and design, not fancy but simple perfection. Dont regret it a second and not looking to upgrade...nothing in this price range compares.... I have 2 mid-level prosumer espresso focused grinders 63mm conical, 64mm flat currently, this pairs well with a clarity focused conical, ime, imo, but works great with all the grinders I ahve used with it. I have used this with 2 different conical and several flats and we always prefer to conical ....but may be our preference...

I love this machinetta. Paired with an HG-1 manual grinder and freshly roasted coffee it makes music. That is how I modified it: -Vacuum breaker valve. -LED backlighting for water gauge. -Custom car grills and edge protect drip tray cover and drain kit. -Machined feet. -3M Ferrari red automotive wrapping and -red bicycle handles. -naked PF -Old PF piston removal tool conversion (my first job with the tap set). Five years later it runs strong with seal lubrication every six months. Who said an Olympia Cremina or Strietman is my future? Better not tell the wife.