Flair 58 Series

Flair 58. Heats up super quick really, and you get the benefit of flow control.

58+2 (own this already), timemore sculptor 64s, morning dream steamer. This is my end game.. I love manual lever machine, hate manual grind, and still cannot steam milk properly on my stove steamer.

I don't get it, doesn't using a 49mm stepdown basket (like the billet basket from SWORKS) on the Flair 58+ II produce the same exact results? That's my current set up. Or this is for those who don't own a flair and this can be a first purchase option?

I'd be mostly concerned with adequate, consistent, and stable brew temps. The Flair 58 is better than the Robot and other Flair models for back-to-back shots IMO, and you have access to more accessories. The Robot can also be difficult to come by.

Go with a Flair58+2 and an 1Zpresso J-Ultra. 😎👍 Total control and excellent results, plus you learn a lot more. You’ll need a Nanofoamer for milk though.

Flair 58+2 and a good kettle. I just saved you $1000 and if you have a good grinder your back in the high 90’s. 😎💪

I ordered an Odyssey Argos spring lever at the top end of your budget. I’d recommend a Flair58+2, good kettle and a Nanofoamer (if you like milk drinks). Then spend the rest on the best grinder you can afford. You will get unbeatable shots and learn a lot.

A manual lever is like driving a stick vs an automatic car. The lever gives you all the control and the best shots I’ve ever had are with profiles only possible on a lever (or very expensive computerized machines). If you are a little adventurous go with a lever machine. Starting with a Flair/Cafelot/LaPavoni/Odyssey will let you learn a lot and make unbeatable extractions. If you don’t need to steam milk then a Flair58 is an excellent choice (I love mine!) and no temperature management like an LP. If a steam wand is important then LaPavoni or Odyssey Argos. If you just want you push a button and get a decent shot easy, then Bambino is for you. And don’t forget there is no good shot without a good grinder.

Have you considered the Flair 58+2? This thing feels like it could survive a nuclear war, and there isn’t a whole lot that can break. The only maintenance I do is a a monthly disassembly and re-lube of the gaskets.

58+2 represent! I now grind with an 1zpresso J-Ultra, and like you, I was middling for years on a subpar machine. I'd still drink the shots straight from my Dedica, sour or bitter as they were. Now, the tasting notes on the bag actually mean something. I had a note calling for smoke, and I tasted it and it differed from just bitterness. Melon notes come thru. It's eye opening really. I'm sure Flair won't work for everyone, but as the only coffee drinker in my home doing 2-3 pulls a day, it definitely works for me.