We have served several espresso coffee’s with great success, still fine tuning but quite quickly learning. Like that is not too noisy

Huge step up from the more appliance level machines, this is great to use and feels very sturdy and built to last. Portafilter and tamper feel a little cheaper, so those would be something to replace but the espresso and steam this machine produces is amazing for the price.

And yes, you need to install an OPV to have consistent shots. The difference is day and night. Even better if you can replace the OEM shower screen with a counter-sunk IMS screen along with a proper stainless-steel screw.

And, no, this does not have pre-infusion, so don't get it wrong. That 3-second pump sound before dispensing water is actually for filling the brew water tube inside the HX. Don't flush too much water before brewing or you will have inconsistent shot time.

And yes, you need to install an OPV to have consistent shots. The difference is day and night. Even better if you can replace the OEM shower screen with a counter-sunk IMS screen along with a proper stainless-steel screw.

And, no, this does not have pre-infusion, so don't get it wrong. That 3-second pump sound before dispensing water is actually for filling the brew water tube inside the HX. Don't flush too much water before brewing or you will have inconsistent shot time.

As a long time single origin coffee roaster, I am very fussy about my coffee.I had a lot of variations when brewing the same beans using a quality conical bur grinder,as did a friend who purchased a GSP and described over the top results. I balked at the price but as an engineer l knew the concept was correct.After some time I took the plunge and do not have the words(unless you would like to talk to me for many hours)to say how much better my coffee is.My wife who for convenience used a pod machine for years now complains if I don’t make her coffee every day before I go to work.In hindsight I would pay twice the price for this machine