After all the advise I went to order my machine, and the salesman really really felt the Elektra was a much better constructed machine (It had better be for the significant price difference). I know he had a financial bias toward the machine but I felt his advise and reasoning was sound. Although I started really liking the modern look of the PV, I ended up throwing my $$$ at the Elektra micro-casa in the end and holding off on the grinder. I was prepared to up my budget if the grinder became a must.

The Elektra arrived today but my RB tamper did not. I figured I would try to make a Capo just for fun realizing that the plastic tamper is a total joke and may ruin my chances at a successful first attempt at a lever. I did happen to get some really good fresh beans today.

First grind, first pittiful plastic tamp, first "pull", first "Fellini", first steam of milk...the best god damn capo I have made to date. No joke. Microfoam was easy. Shot had decent crema, but what stood out the most was the full flavor and smoothness. No bitterness at all.

It could have been luck, but I expect a great relationship with this machine. So far I would call it less "picky" than my Gaggia Classic. That may change as the beans age. At this point the MDF grinder is adequate.

Stoked on the Lever! Quiet, simple, and soulful. J