I purchased this exact espresso machine a few woots ago…
I have to tell you, now after upgrading, with the single wall baskets (have to buy them extra) and a little practice, this espresso machine is very forgiving and will provide pretty good espresso (I’ve used that little hand burr grinder you find on Amazon for under $40 with great results).
Do some research if you are new to espresso. Be warned though, it is addicting and you will be bitten hard by the upgrade ‘itis’ bug, trust me.
Also, if you like Americano’s, don’t use the hot water out of the wand, not hot enough. Instead, put hot tap water in your cup and use steam out of the wand to heat water, then add shot.
Of course, mine is now sitting on a back counter after my case of upgrade ‘itis’. I have all the extras now too (anybody? Bueller?)
Luck all…