[SkyPuncher]

This is inline with entry level setups. My setup costs this much.

The thing is the expectations for these machines are sky-high. They're built like tanks, last forever, are servicable, and generally very high quality.

[0xffff2]

If you think this is an "entry level" setup, you're in too deep!

[SkyPuncher]

No, I don't believe I am. I had a retail-level setup and I can absolutely tell the difference.

It's not so much that I can make better espresso, but it's far easier, quicker, and more consistent to make not-totally crap tasting espresso.