Hard to say but it could be either bad greens or an old roast. Both coffees OP mentioned appear to be sourced from the same regions insofar as Peets marketing states. Its just a guess its likely the same greens at either different blend, roast level or both. I have a difficult time imagining they have coffee sitting around long

There is one with a bottom adjuster out there that moves the motor up and down. There is mention of a DF64P at "Turin DF64P - Upgraded and updated DF64" It recently got some YouTube and reddit attention. I believe that Espresso Outlet was considering carrying it or one similar, but it did not meet their expectations

Had that happen countless times in recent years vs prior where it was like berry slamdunk after berry slamdunk. Even Klatch, Onyx etc I would reorder and be like wtf did berry go taste like acidic generic coffee now lol. I have no idea if roasters are having crop or machine/roasting issues, I know others have mentioned green crop issues

Why don't you call 1st Line Equipment and question them about problem? They are the U.S. distributor of Lelit machines/products. I would think if this is a documented problem, they would either make a new water softener just for the Elizabeth machines or update the one they are recommending

Anyone seen the images of the "premium" DF64 with a different grind size adjuster and wooden finishes? I wonder if there will be any discernable differences outside of aesthetic

Ach I wish I has deep pockets too. I'd go for a Londinium or the new ACS Vesuvius Evo Leva. There was an ACS Aventus on sale where I am and I almost went for it. The bad reviews about issues it has stopped me. Still, a beautiful piece of sculpture.

I'm new to espresso and bought this machine as it seemed a good starting point. I noticed the apparent channeling per the photo in the OP, so after a few months I had a proper look. (BTW I'm a retired engineer, so solving things like this is fun.) I thought it was likely due to the way water was