Commercial quality
Very  "forgiving"
No more Upgrade envy

Vibe pump version (what I bought) is a little loud at first, but you can find some modifications to quiet it down; move the water intake line, etc.

After one year with my Rancilio Sylvia, I was ready to take the plunge to a higher level machine. Mind you. there's nothing my 'ol Sylvia couldn't do, but I wanted a plumbed unit with auto boiler refill. When the price dropped on the vibe units, I pounced on it. They have gone up a little since then, but not too bad.

From talking with other owners with rotary pumps, they are very quiet. However, the vibe was in my price range. The packing and shipping was excellent. This is sometimes a major issue with machines this size. I was fortunate here. Out of the box this baby is *huge* compared with Sylvia. My wife was was out shopping when I got 'er out and set it on the counter. I cautioned her before she saw it with "after a few weeks you won't notice it" routine...so far so good. Although it eats up some major counter space, it justifies itself.

One feature worth noting is the option to use it plumbed or pour over. Although it has a small water reservoir, it is nice to have so you can use it before you plumb it in. I fired it up, waited about 30 minutes until it was up to temp, and pulled a double. very nice indeed. The E61 grouphead in this price range is awesome. I mentioned the Lyra is "forgiving" The only bad shots I have pulled were old beans I was try to use up. Major crema, full body espresso. The steaming wand is hot dry steam, that would cut off a finger if it got in the way. Lots of guests over? No prob here, zero recovery time, a real workhorse.

After 6 months use, I have not regretted this purchase. Since I keep it on 24/7, I rarely drink coffee out anymore.

I don't think Aabree Coffee Co. sells these anymore. That's why I got it so cheap. You will have to go to Espresso Parts Northwest. However, Aabree was very good. Great communication, timely shipping. Highly recommended.