Take off the top if the vacuum breaker does not have a clear tube to the discharge valve going into the drip tray and is not leaking then it's probably a bad opv valve. If it has a silicone tube from the vacuum valve into the drip tray it could be a bad vacuum valve . If both

Not good QC, both nuts might just need to be tightened a bit. Unplug and tighten. If still leaking contact the vendor for assistance

Ouch...$21.75 lb

I'd contact Pat Boyt at boytenterprises.com to see if he has a rebuilt gicar box. See if he can replace/fix the control box. He's a member here and has done great work for lots of members

Notmilk in the US offers a regular and a new Barista version that froth's ok, you can add a dash of plant based heavy whip to the regular non barista version for a creamier texture. Next Milk has been discontinued here. I've tried some on your list, Oatly Barista is easier to find, price has gone do...

I've tried them both, Notmilk 1 quart barista is pricey, steams well, slight chicory aftertaste. Regular Notmilk steams ok, I add a bit of next milk plant based heavy whip cream to smooth out the frothing, and is cheaper. Silk next milk was cheaper easier to find but recently discontinued. Oatly bar...

Med-slight dark with chocolate notes, syrupy. I found your jack rabbit blend to be too bright

Tried their Prana espresso not the AB roast with a coupon code, it was OK. Didn't have the mouthfeel & chocolate notes I favor. It was better and less expensive espresso than most of the other vendors i have tried that advertise here

The new larger basket probably has more holes, allows more water thus the fast shot at same grind setting. Try grinding finer, good distribution/tamp and retry