In my home town almost every espresso-shop has a KvdW Mirage, and they sure do look good, nothing wrong with that. It is just that when I read the OP, I couldn't help but think of this one:

http://www.astoriaespresso.com/sibilla.asp#

Does anyone know these? Only my two cents...

Whoa, guys, the dude is never gonna be able to buy anything with all of you lot throwing these pornographic machines at him... ^^

My money is on the Elektra with the electric groups, in busy bar environment all the help you can get is good, and the volumetric is really one of those.

Styling and performance wise you just have to go with the Mistral, I've never seen a more beautiful machine in my life. I have no clue how hard it would be to use, but I'm guessing quite a lot compared to the Elektra if you aren't a trained full-time barista.

well....I pulled the trigger. after tons of your great advice, I ordered (today) a Mirage triplette in the veloce styling. I decided to go for the triple head...and I just loved that veloce look.

so...thanks to all. I will post pictures as soon as it arrives. Luckily, the euro to dollar rate helped me get it for a little less than I originally budgeted! here it is: (except I got the 3 group, this is the 2)

http://www.keesvanderwesten.com/mirage-veloce.html

Congrats! Great machine -- if the shots I've had are any indication -- and a real beauty!

If I'm ever in Pennsylvania, it will be worth the detour to have an espresso at your cafe . . .