DF83V

Yes I would say something like the Mazzer Philos, a $1400 grinder, definitely sits in that diminishing returns point. But it’s pretty and you do get the sense that it is worth the price tag because of the precision and materials. The most optimal value for grinders currently is probably around $400-

the DF83V from MiiCoffee is kinda where you want to be at if i’m being honest

For the long term, I would go with an Option-O Casa or a used Niche Zero. Easy to service and fix, and very good at what they need to do, consistently. If it was for the short term, expecting to sell and upgrade in the near future, then a used Turin/MiiCoffee DF83V.

The Profitec DRIVE is the sister machine to the ECM Synchronika II. You might also consider the Profitec RIDE, which is a little less expensive. When choosing a grinder you first want to decide between a "Hopper Style" grinder (Specialita) and a "Single Dose" grinder (Oro). Some people want a hopper

If you have the funds, a dual boiler is more likely to give you a longer term solution you absolutely love. Especially if at least 50% of your coffees are with milk. Others have said the Lelit Elizabeth, the breville dual boiler is another option for features but with less longevity. Even the Rancil

The two sources for Errors and Omissions is design (materials, functionality) and assembly line inconsistencies (ie. you might get a "good" one or you might get a "bad" one). You can try to rule out assembly line inconsistencies by returning your unit and getting another (in the hope that it's far l