Mignon Brew Pro

Probably the cheapest best option is Baratza encore esp or eureka mignion

As a former barista I think you will be most comfortable with a Gaggia Classic E24. It will feel closest to the commercial machines you've used in the past. Don't forget to budget for a good grinder. When brewing espresso, the grinder is much more important than the espresso machine. lf you really have a budget for $1K, an E24 for $450 will leave you $550 for a grinder. Spend as much of that as you can stand. If you want to single dose, Timemore 064s would be a great choice. Get it at one of Amazon's frequent 20% discount sales. If you want to grind-on-demand with a hopper, then one of the Eureka Mignons.

Ja mám už roky delonghi dedica s vlastným sitkom a pákou (neviem, ako sa to po slovensky správne volá) a eureka mignon mlynček. Do 500€ by si sa mal vojsť.

The Eureka Mignon series will grind to the 190-195 micron range depending on which model.

Yep, my Mignon is also quiet. I've found that much of the sound it does produce, is through motor's resonance with my kitchen cabinets, which then act as speakers of sorts. If I lift it up, it's really quiet as far as grinders can be (that is with hopper lid and bean valve closed, which makes a difference). Sound is low-pitched too. Note: I don't actually lift up the grinder in daily use 😆 I also happen to have an E55 Pro and while it's not exactly loud, it does produce a relatively high-pitched noise compared to my Eureka (my gf finds it annoying, but doesn't mind the Eureka). Other than that, great grinder!

Yes, I think they are great. Much less retention than the Mignon we originally bought & then returned. Easy to adjust, reliable. We use it for decaf, V60 & filter in a small cafe.