I’ve gone through a few machines, first some Starbucks labeled OEM machine over 30 years ago, next a couple E61 group machines, a single boiler Quick Mill Andreja Premium followed by a double boiler Izzo Alex Duetto IV Plus. My daughter uses the Izzo and I am rebuilding the Andreja Premium for my son. The E61 group based systems have been around a long time, many manufacturers use the group, making parts and repairs readily available and relatively simple.
I still think an E61 group based system is a solid choice.
With the coffee/beverage bar my wife added when remodeling the kitchen, I negotiated a Slayer Espresso Machine, made right in my hometown of Seattle. My grinder is a KafaTek MC6, another product manufactured near Seattle. The convenience of having the water supply and drain plumbed has been a welcome addition. Using the Slayer and even my previous E61 group machines is like playing a record for me vs streaming some AI generated play list. I understand many like a software driven machine like the Decent but it was the last type of machine I wanted on our coffee bar. I enjoy the manual control of the espresso making experience and can’t imagine having a big iPad screen ruining my morning ritual Chi.
I have never owned a lever machine and should have planned for the possibility when we put in our coffee/beverage bar last year. I may still be able to find a way to make one work if I get the urge to try one.