Alex,
I've had my Monolith for 4.5 months (from the 1st batch). It was to replace my Versalb. I loved my Versalab, but when Denis offered me a Monolith I jumped at it, figuring I could sell the M3 for a decent price....nope, no takers. So I decided to move my HX machine to my vacation home with the M3. Then I spent a month debating what to get for home. I didn't want to get something too big, and I did not really want something with complicated electronics like my old GS3. My friend has a Faema Lambro and told me about the great deal on the L1 because of the current exchange rate with England. I've only had it for two days. Never had a lever machine, so this is a big change. So far it's great, and the espresso is superb...can't wait to get up tomorrow and make some more espresso. I think I'm really going to like this machine.
Rob

Rob!!!!! Well done. Enjoy your new toys in good health!

Awesome. I'm definitely sold on the Monolith - just not sure which one! Conical to replace my Hg-1 or Flat to sit beside it...

Still not totally sure on the L1. Believe it or not I'm also considering a LMLM and a DE1+ - all very different animals but they all get me excited for different reasons. The L1 is my current top choice but I change my mind pretty regularly.

Thanks for the thoughts.

Was out visiting my parents in Seattle this spring and stopped at LM. Great people. Got to pull some shots on the LMLM. Really liked it!
Rob

Good choice I hope you have many good pulls . I have my lever in a similar spot. I placed it so that the lever is directly aligned with the center of the cabinet doors. Since mine's lined up with the hinge it needed to be exactly in the center to not impede opening the cabinet doors.

rbh1515 wrote:...using non-lever machines for over 20 years.

Sweet. Get used to leisurely 45 second shots.

rbh1515 wrote:Alex,
I've had my Monolith for 4.5 months (from the 1st batch). It was to replace my Versalb. I loved my Versalab, but when Denis offered me a Monolith I jumped at it, figuring I could sell the M3 for a decent price....nope, no takers. So I decided to move my HX machine to my vacation home with the M3. Then I spent a month debating what to get for home. I didn't want to get something too big, and I did not really want something with complicated electronics like my old GS3. My friend has a Faema Lambro and told me about the great deal on the L1 because of the current exchange rate with England. I've only had it for two days. Never had a lever machine, so this is a big change. So far it's great, and the espresso is superb...can't wait to get up tomorrow and make some more espresso. I think I'm really going to like this machine.
Rob

Rob,

Enjoy the L1. The Milwaukee area is becoming a lever lovers delight.

Enjoy the journey,

Jack

another_jim wrote:Sweet. Get used to leisurely 45 second shots.

I'm learning a lot about levers from my friend nearby with the Lambro. Those long shots are beautiful to watch, and are so delicious! I came very close to buying a Bezzera Strega. I watched your videos and was impressed. So far, I am very happy with the L1. Never thought I would buy a lever.
Rob