I need to replace my 15 year old La Pavoni Europiccola. I've grown to love it and would consider another lever action machine. I would like some recommendations from this crowd on a "step up" machine be it lever action or semi-auto. So far nothing I have tried under a $1K beats the shot quality I get from my La Pavoni. Some things I liked about the Europiccola are the short warm up times and ease of use. What I don't like about the machine is that the portafilter isn't big enough and the base of the machine rusts out under the drip tray where the screw fastens the bottom cover to the base. I've replaced it a couple times. I also want a bigger water reservoir. I drink mostly Latte and an occasional straight shot. Like to keep the price around the $1k price point. Thanks.

Cremina on Ebay right now for $699.00 Buy-it-Now price.

Update 4:10 PM... Sold at 1:22PM for $699.00...

I've had a europiccola for 12 years, and still love it. I came across a cremina 67 over a year ago and now that is my primary machine. So for me the cremina is a step up. But creminas are hard to find, and rather than wait around for one to appear on ebay (since chances are you might not win the auction) you could just buy a new millenium europiccola. It is new, has a larger group and basket and is, in some respects, a step up.

In other words, if you like pavonis just stick with them, especially since they are ubiquitous, easy to repair, find parts and info on etc.

water reservoir - how about upgrading to a pavoni professional? doesn't help with the rest of your problems though.

Alternatively. I wholeheartedly recommend buying a honking great commercial lever. You'll soon wonder why your friends look strangely at you and your wife is perpetually mad that the fridge has to live in the dining room. Personal experience only, yours may vary. Closed course, do not attempt.