DF83V

I have a df83 v2. Older version now. Modded it with a better chute and it has been fantastic. Very low if non existent retention. Recently put 151 mazzer burrs on it. Better in many ways than the philos

Zerno z1 or z2 if you can wait. I personally use the DF83V and that is massively underrated, but still if you have the budget, Zerno.

I have Mignon Specialita and it's OK, but if I had the knowledge that I have now when I bought my first grinder, I'd buy DF64. Now I'm eyeing a DF83V as an upgrade, but I'm currently out of money... The things that piss me off the most are: \- Freaking small adjustment wheel. You only touch it and the grind size difference is huge. (can be modded if you have 3d printer) \- Has dumb burr size. They have their specific diameter and specific hole spacing so you can't buy different burrs then form Eureka. \- Struggles with lighter roasts (my burrs are almost touching almost every time I try to dial in any light roast) \- kinda high retention if you don't tilt your grinder with 3d printed base and don't slap it few times after grinding.

SSP terminology is confusing and changes across sizes. HU in 83mm seems to be filter focused and produces high clarity brews. I’d start with that and then compare and contrast the others. It’s a very personal thing.

I'm happy with my DF83 v2. Also have the bb plus.

I’d go with a single dose grinder and both of you get beans you love. If they’re going to go stale before you get through the bag, go ahead and dial a shot in, put doses in the freezer and remember or write down the grinder setting that worked for you. In my house that looks like the super light coffees I enjoy in little glass cork top vials weighed out to 19g and either my mom’s or dad’s coffee (they live in my guest suite) in a set of vials with a different colored top so they know they’re theirs. I’d go DF83v because if you do some studying you can see how different RPMs will lead to awesome results for both of you, even with different tastes. It’ll seem like a lot of work at the start, I know, but after a few weeks it’ll be absolutely second nature and you’ll both be so damn happy with your individual coffees.

If you can afford it, the DF83V is a beast! Also, the MHW 3-Bomber F74 Navigator would be in you budget and punches above its weight imo, almost on par with a Mazzer Philos for over 1k.