Pro 500 PID

There are many recommendations here for some of the most expensive machines, but you don't have to go an spend that much money in order to get a good espresso machine. It also depends on what you want. A Decent machine will let you experiment with many variables, while machines like a Linea Micra or Linea Mini are notorious for being very reliable and looking aesthetically good, but they lack flow/pressure control. Other E61 machines such like a Lelot Bianca or a Profitec Pro 500 offer flow control, but it's manual (not auto like the Decent). However, for ultimate manual (pressure) control you should look at a lever style espresso machine. You should start coming up with a whish list, and go from there. Do you want a dual boiler? How important is a quick warm up for you? PID? (most likely yes), flow/pressure control? E61 group head? Lever? Automatic or manual flow control? Volumetric shots?

I always recommend used off marketplace. I’ve yet to purchase a lemon of any type of machine. 50% off new is such a great way purchase a machine that otherwise would be out of price range. As far as coffee goes, I’ve picked up a 1996 La Pavoni and a Profitec Pro 500 with PID, all at great bargains.

Yep, very similar setup. How much do you use your 600? Now that I have the lever machine I only use my 500 when I want a milk drink. I would like to find a deal on an Olympia Cremina. If I had that I would probably sell both my current machines.

I’ve also got a smart plug on my 500, but I’ve found I get a flavor I enjoy more out of the Pavoni than the 500. The steaming and the shot size are better though on the 500. So for me, straight shots are always on the Pavoni and my cappuccinos are on the 500

I picked up an LP from 1996 for $400 and now I use it way more than my $2k Profitec.

My parents'rocket is going on 20 years and they barely maintain it. Still does great coffee. Our profitec pro 500 is going on 6 strong

Was in a similar circumstance. Had previously owned a profitec 500 for years and wanted an upgrade. Was between the sync and mini. Ultimtely went mini as price wasnt a factor and I love the fact that almost anywhere they can be serviced. Profitec/ECM I could not find anyone to touch it locally. I have 0 regrets, love the mini. Happy to not have an e61 machine anymore, the burns from the brew group and super long heat up time are super nice not have anymore. I say go mini dont look back.

I guess I haven't really kept up since I bought my Pro 500... that naming scheme is certainly something.

I got my (barely) used Profitec Pro 700 for a bit more than that. You should be able to find used PP 500s within your budget. It has the looks you’re looking for and makes tasty espresso. It’s a heat exchange machine (unlike 600 and above, which are dual boilers). It’s got E61 grouphead, great steam power, optional PID. Could be a good option for you

Profitec Pro 500 with flow control. Cost around $2000 and it is well worth the money.