The Flair 58 is a fully-manual, professional-grade lever espresso press that redefines at-home extractions. This newest gold standard in manual espresso boasts Flair's first industry-standard 58mm portafilter, complemented by a more robust frame and lever for effortless extractions at higher pressures. With four customer-requested upgrades, the Flair 58 enhances both the preheating and workflow process. The Preheat Temperature Controller offers three heat settings for precise thermal control, while the new valve plunger with a puck screen ensures a smooth brewing experience. The angled elbow connector minimizes wiring, and the detachable preheat controller allows you to brew espresso anywhere. The Flair 58 caters to every home brewer's needs. Whether you prefer the chamfered, low-flow 18-gram basket or the straight-walled high-flow option, the Flair 58 provides flexibility and control. Unlock the true potential of your extraction with the Flair 58.
The Flair 58 is a fully-manual, professional-grade lever espresso press that redefines at-home extractions. This newest gold standard in manual espresso boasts Flair's first industry-standard 58mm portafilter, complemented by a more robust frame and lever for effortless extractions at higher pressures. With four customer-requested upgrades, the Flair 58 enhances both the preheating and workflow process. The Preheat Temperature Controller offers three heat settings for precise thermal control, while the new valve plunger with a puck screen ensures a smooth brewing experience. The angled elbow connector minimizes wiring, and the detachable preheat controller allows you to brew espresso anywhere. The Flair 58 caters to every home brewer's needs. Whether you prefer the chamfered, low-flow 18-gram basket or the straight-walled high-flow option, the Flair 58 provides flexibility and control. Unlock the true potential of your extraction with the Flair 58.
The Flair 58 is a fully-manual, professional-grade lever espresso press that redefines at-home extractions. This newest gold standard in manual espresso boasts Flair's first industry-standard 58mm portafilter, complemented by a more robust frame and lever for effortless extractions at higher pressures. With four customer-requested upgrades, the Flair 58 enhances both the preheating and workflow process. The Preheat Temperature Controller offers three heat settings for precise thermal control, while the new valve plunger with a puck screen ensures a smooth brewing experience. The angled elbow connector minimizes wiring, and the detachable preheat controller allows you to brew espresso anywhere. The Flair 58 caters to every home brewer's needs. Whether you prefer the chamfered, low-flow 18-gram basket or the straight-walled high-flow option, the Flair 58 provides flexibility and control. Unlock the true potential of your extraction with the Flair 58.
The Flair 58 is a fully-manual, professional-grade lever espresso press that redefines at-home extractions. This newest gold standard in manual espresso boasts Flair's first industry-standard 58mm portafilter, complemented by a more robust frame and lever for effortless extractions at higher pressures. With four customer-requested upgrades, the Flair 58 enhances both the preheating and workflow process. The Preheat Temperature Controller offers three heat settings for precise thermal control, while the new valve plunger with a puck screen ensures a smooth brewing experience. The angled elbow connector minimizes wiring, and the detachable preheat controller allows you to brew espresso anywhere. The Flair 58 caters to every home brewer's needs. Whether you prefer the chamfered, low-flow 18-gram basket or the straight-walled high-flow option, the Flair 58 provides flexibility and control. Unlock the true potential of your extraction with the Flair 58.
Last updated at 06/08/2026 12:40:47
Flair 58 Espresso Maker
Buy Flair 58 Espresso Maker | Pro Manual Espresso at Home
Free delivery
Flair 58 Espresso Maker – Brew Perfect Espresso
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originally posted on flairespresso.com
For the price point, especially on sale, it is hard to think of a better at-home espresso solution. With a bit of effort and tinkering this machine can absolutely make top tier espresso.If a revision is ever released the following items should be addressed:1) I would have appreciated having a portafilter funnel included by default, like they are in their lower-end models.2) Even though the assembly bolts that connect to the two main parts of the body where as tight as I can get them with the included hex tool, the stand can still pivot when applying torque while installing or removing the portafilter.3) The pre-heating control box seems very cheap. I find it VERY hard to believe that the 3 heat levels can accurately hit the temperatures commonly associated with ... MoreFor the price point, especially on sale, it is hard to think of a better at-home espresso solution. With a bit of effort and tinkering this machine can absolutely make top tier espresso.If a revision is ever released the following items should be addressed:1) I would have appreciated having a portafilter funnel included by default, like they are in their lower-end models.2) Even though the assembly bolts that connect to the two main parts of the body where as tight as I can get them with the included hex tool, the stand can still pivot when applying torque while installing or removing the portafilter.3) The pre-heating control box seems very cheap. I find it VERY hard to believe that the 3 heat levels can accurately hit the temperatures commonly associated with brewing light, medium, dark roasts. I've tested pouring 90 C water into the chamber and leaving it for 1 minute. When I inserted a thermometer the temperature had climbed to around 95 C on the lowest power setting. It seems also that the heating element is located in the top of the chamber, which causes a few problems. 1) The top of the chamber is significantly hotter than the bottom even when left to heat up for 10 minutes. 2) The water towards the end of the brew will be significantly hotter which will negatively effect the extraction. 3) When installed, the portafilter won't get enough heat to be brought up to temperature even when I left it on high for 10 minutes, and I've had to result to running it under a hot tap for a minute or so to heat it up effectively.So, as is the case with manual espresso machines, thermal management continues to be an issue that requires some testing to figure out. Though the heating element does add some convenience, it by no means solves the issue it attempts to fix, especially given the added cost for this option.If I had purchased the version without the pre-heat element, I would absolutely give this machine 4-5 stars, but given the lack of value the pre-heat chamber provides for the added cost I had to be more critical. Like I said, this machine can make excellent espresso and it's an excellent choice for someone looking to upgrade to an intermediate espresso solution without breaking the bank.
originally posted on flairespresso.com
It wasn't the caffeine that was keeping me up at night. It was the daunting question: What would happen if the power grid went down and I couldn't get my morning shot? After getting myself a nice hand grinder, my search moved on to manual espresso machines. The Flair machines caught my eye, mainly because of the superb design. Simple, unpretentious and functional. I started with the Classic, but found that plucking a hot boiler out of a mug of hot water lost its roll-up-your-sleeves appeal after a couple of months. Also, the shots weren't quite big enough for my needs. So I upgraded to the 58 and I'm pleased with my decision. I like the 58mm portafilter for its size and simplicity (my old Gaggia's portafilter retained water and took ages to shake out - The 58's is ... MoreIt wasn't the caffeine that was keeping me up at night. It was the daunting question: What would happen if the power grid went down and I couldn't get my morning shot? After getting myself a nice hand grinder, my search moved on to manual espresso machines. The Flair machines caught my eye, mainly because of the superb design. Simple, unpretentious and functional. I started with the Classic, but found that plucking a hot boiler out of a mug of hot water lost its roll-up-your-sleeves appeal after a couple of months. Also, the shots weren't quite big enough for my needs. So I upgraded to the 58 and I'm pleased with my decision. I like the 58mm portafilter for its size and simplicity (my old Gaggia's portafilter retained water and took ages to shake out - The 58's is lighter and way easier to wipe off for the next shot). I've found the capacity is perfect for a 2 OZ shot. The handle is sturdier and leverage is better, and I've found the pressure gage to be an essential guide. The shots, although faster than other machines I've used, are consistent and yield good crema. I'm still experimenting on different beans and grinds, so couldn't say I've arrived at perfection yet. Criticisms?The brew head and gage feel a little sloppy when you move the lever and inserting the portafilter when the lever is down gets a little awkward. But putting those nits aside, this device is as easy to use as a regular electrical machine only it doesn't have the potential for weak or failing pumps - or power outages, for that matter.
originally posted on flairespresso.com
It makes espresso as good as my previous machine which was a Breville dual boiler. I was tired of frequent maintenance services and leakages here and there of typical espresso machines. Flair solves these kinds of problem in a great fashion. I can imagine needing some o-rings down the road at some point but that's about it apparently. I had a Flair Classic before 58 which I didn't end up using. After a few tries, it sat in the cabinet for the entire duration of its ownership. Heating up the the brew chamber was just too cumbersome for my preference. 58 hits the right spot here. It heats up the chamber and I heat up the water in a small pour over kettle. The additional level of effort (compared to a semi-automatic machine) does not bother me. My 4 star rating is a ... MoreIt makes espresso as good as my previous machine which was a Breville dual boiler. I was tired of frequent maintenance services and leakages here and there of typical espresso machines. Flair solves these kinds of problem in a great fashion. I can imagine needing some o-rings down the road at some point but that's about it apparently. I had a Flair Classic before 58 which I didn't end up using. After a few tries, it sat in the cabinet for the entire duration of its ownership. Heating up the the brew chamber was just too cumbersome for my preference. 58 hits the right spot here. It heats up the chamber and I heat up the water in a small pour over kettle. The additional level of effort (compared to a semi-automatic machine) does not bother me. My 4 star rating is a reflection of my overall satisfaction with the device and its workflow. There are however a number of issues to be addressed:- The beep is too loud and obnoxious. I thought I am getting an absolute silent espresso maker but got disappointed when I realized about the beep that cannot be turned off. Unfortunately, this restricts the times when I can make espresso as I live in a not so big house with other people. So imagine not being able to make an espresso in the early morning because the beep wakes up other people. That's how it is now with Flair 58.- After removing the device out of its package and putting it together, I realized there were some scratches on the base. I don't know if it happened while I was assembling it or, it came out of the box with scratches. I did the job on a plastic mat though so the scratches should have not been there anyway. Since I am in Canada and I purchased this directly from Flair in US, I decided to not bother with a formal complaint. It wasn't worth the hassle or a replacement even if it was approved by Flair. However, I noticed the black paint is only powder coated not anodized which means it easily gets scratched if the user isn't careful. This is certainly a disappointment.- Why only available in black? Imagine the main competition (Cafelat) is available in all those nice colors for those who love lively colors. Considering that the Flair design is so so as it is almost purely function oriented, it would have been nice to have it available to alternative colors. Not everybody is a fan of the boring black paint. Cafelat looks much nicer in comparison in both design and color.- I wished it was possible to disconnect the cable from the device when I want to store it. Flair has been aware of this issue and the new improved model addresses it. Unfortunately, they have jacked up the price.-As an average man, using this device to make espresso is not hard at all but I can see a weaker person may have difficulty particularly one accidentally grind the coffee to fine. There are solutions to improved this though.There are other issues to mention here but I don't want this review to get too long.
| Portafilter Capacity | 16-22g |
| Brews | Approx 50-60ml |
| Pressure | Up To 12 Bars |
| Power | 48 watts |
| Assembled Weight | 3.6kg |
Flair 58 Espresso Maker
Buy Flair 58 Espresso Maker | Pro Manual Espresso at Home
Free delivery
Flair 58 Espresso Maker – Brew Perfect Espresso
Free delivery
For the price point, especially on sale, it is hard to think of a better at-home espresso solution. With a bit of effort and tinkering this machine can absolutely make top tier espresso.If a revision is ever released the following items should be addressed:1) I would have appreciated having a portafilter funnel included by default, like they are in their lower-end models.2) Even though the assembly bolts that connect to the two main parts of the body where as tight as I can get them with the included hex tool, the stand can still pivot when applying torque while installing or removing the portafilter.3) The pre-heating control box seems very cheap. I find it VERY hard to believe that the 3 heat levels can accurately hit the temperatures commonly associated with ... MoreFor the price point, especially on sale, it is hard to think of a better at-home espresso solution. With a bit of effort and tinkering this machine can absolutely make top tier espresso.If a revision is ever released the following items should be addressed:1) I would have appreciated having a portafilter funnel included by default, like they are in their lower-end models.2) Even though the assembly bolts that connect to the two main parts of the body where as tight as I can get them with the included hex tool, the stand can still pivot when applying torque while installing or removing the portafilter.3) The pre-heating control box seems very cheap. I find it VERY hard to believe that the 3 heat levels can accurately hit the temperatures commonly associated with brewing light, medium, dark roasts. I've tested pouring 90 C water into the chamber and leaving it for 1 minute. When I inserted a thermometer the temperature had climbed to around 95 C on the lowest power setting. It seems also that the heating element is located in the top of the chamber, which causes a few problems. 1) The top of the chamber is significantly hotter than the bottom even when left to heat up for 10 minutes. 2) The water towards the end of the brew will be significantly hotter which will negatively effect the extraction. 3) When installed, the portafilter won't get enough heat to be brought up to temperature even when I left it on high for 10 minutes, and I've had to result to running it under a hot tap for a minute or so to heat it up effectively.So, as is the case with manual espresso machines, thermal management continues to be an issue that requires some testing to figure out. Though the heating element does add some convenience, it by no means solves the issue it attempts to fix, especially given the added cost for this option.If I had purchased the version without the pre-heat element, I would absolutely give this machine 4-5 stars, but given the lack of value the pre-heat chamber provides for the added cost I had to be more critical. Like I said, this machine can make excellent espresso and it's an excellent choice for someone looking to upgrade to an intermediate espresso solution without breaking the bank.
It wasn't the caffeine that was keeping me up at night. It was the daunting question: What would happen if the power grid went down and I couldn't get my morning shot? After getting myself a nice hand grinder, my search moved on to manual espresso machines. The Flair machines caught my eye, mainly because of the superb design. Simple, unpretentious and functional. I started with the Classic, but found that plucking a hot boiler out of a mug of hot water lost its roll-up-your-sleeves appeal after a couple of months. Also, the shots weren't quite big enough for my needs. So I upgraded to the 58 and I'm pleased with my decision. I like the 58mm portafilter for its size and simplicity (my old Gaggia's portafilter retained water and took ages to shake out - The 58's is ... MoreIt wasn't the caffeine that was keeping me up at night. It was the daunting question: What would happen if the power grid went down and I couldn't get my morning shot? After getting myself a nice hand grinder, my search moved on to manual espresso machines. The Flair machines caught my eye, mainly because of the superb design. Simple, unpretentious and functional. I started with the Classic, but found that plucking a hot boiler out of a mug of hot water lost its roll-up-your-sleeves appeal after a couple of months. Also, the shots weren't quite big enough for my needs. So I upgraded to the 58 and I'm pleased with my decision. I like the 58mm portafilter for its size and simplicity (my old Gaggia's portafilter retained water and took ages to shake out - The 58's is lighter and way easier to wipe off for the next shot). I've found the capacity is perfect for a 2 OZ shot. The handle is sturdier and leverage is better, and I've found the pressure gage to be an essential guide. The shots, although faster than other machines I've used, are consistent and yield good crema. I'm still experimenting on different beans and grinds, so couldn't say I've arrived at perfection yet. Criticisms?The brew head and gage feel a little sloppy when you move the lever and inserting the portafilter when the lever is down gets a little awkward. But putting those nits aside, this device is as easy to use as a regular electrical machine only it doesn't have the potential for weak or failing pumps - or power outages, for that matter.
It makes espresso as good as my previous machine which was a Breville dual boiler. I was tired of frequent maintenance services and leakages here and there of typical espresso machines. Flair solves these kinds of problem in a great fashion. I can imagine needing some o-rings down the road at some point but that's about it apparently. I had a Flair Classic before 58 which I didn't end up using. After a few tries, it sat in the cabinet for the entire duration of its ownership. Heating up the the brew chamber was just too cumbersome for my preference. 58 hits the right spot here. It heats up the chamber and I heat up the water in a small pour over kettle. The additional level of effort (compared to a semi-automatic machine) does not bother me. My 4 star rating is a ... MoreIt makes espresso as good as my previous machine which was a Breville dual boiler. I was tired of frequent maintenance services and leakages here and there of typical espresso machines. Flair solves these kinds of problem in a great fashion. I can imagine needing some o-rings down the road at some point but that's about it apparently. I had a Flair Classic before 58 which I didn't end up using. After a few tries, it sat in the cabinet for the entire duration of its ownership. Heating up the the brew chamber was just too cumbersome for my preference. 58 hits the right spot here. It heats up the chamber and I heat up the water in a small pour over kettle. The additional level of effort (compared to a semi-automatic machine) does not bother me. My 4 star rating is a reflection of my overall satisfaction with the device and its workflow. There are however a number of issues to be addressed:- The beep is too loud and obnoxious. I thought I am getting an absolute silent espresso maker but got disappointed when I realized about the beep that cannot be turned off. Unfortunately, this restricts the times when I can make espresso as I live in a not so big house with other people. So imagine not being able to make an espresso in the early morning because the beep wakes up other people. That's how it is now with Flair 58.- After removing the device out of its package and putting it together, I realized there were some scratches on the base. I don't know if it happened while I was assembling it or, it came out of the box with scratches. I did the job on a plastic mat though so the scratches should have not been there anyway. Since I am in Canada and I purchased this directly from Flair in US, I decided to not bother with a formal complaint. It wasn't worth the hassle or a replacement even if it was approved by Flair. However, I noticed the black paint is only powder coated not anodized which means it easily gets scratched if the user isn't careful. This is certainly a disappointment.- Why only available in black? Imagine the main competition (Cafelat) is available in all those nice colors for those who love lively colors. Considering that the Flair design is so so as it is almost purely function oriented, it would have been nice to have it available to alternative colors. Not everybody is a fan of the boring black paint. Cafelat looks much nicer in comparison in both design and color.- I wished it was possible to disconnect the cable from the device when I want to store it. Flair has been aware of this issue and the new improved model addresses it. Unfortunately, they have jacked up the price.-As an average man, using this device to make espresso is not hard at all but I can see a weaker person may have difficulty particularly one accidentally grind the coffee to fine. There are solutions to improved this though.There are other issues to mention here but I don't want this review to get too long.
I have had the Flair 58 for a couple of months and am really enjoy it. My previous espresso experience is with a La Pavoni Professional where I am proficient, but far from expert, and some limited use of a Flair Pro 2.All three can produce excellent espresso, though I find the Flair 58 the most intuitive overall and easiest to produce consistent results.The heating element is great and I’ve found it sufficient for my tastes. It heats up much faster than the Pavoni and it’s nice not having the manual heating step like the Flair Pro.As stated by Flair and just about everyone else, a quality grinder is not optional here. I am using a J-Max which is working out great. The ultra fine adjustment is useful as even a couple of clicks can make a noticeable difference in ... MoreI have had the Flair 58 for a couple of months and am really enjoy it. My previous espresso experience is with a La Pavoni Professional where I am proficient, but far from expert, and some limited use of a Flair Pro 2.All three can produce excellent espresso, though I find the Flair 58 the most intuitive overall and easiest to produce consistent results.The heating element is great and I’ve found it sufficient for my tastes. It heats up much faster than the Pavoni and it’s nice not having the manual heating step like the Flair Pro.As stated by Flair and just about everyone else, a quality grinder is not optional here. I am using a J-Max which is working out great. The ultra fine adjustment is useful as even a couple of clicks can make a noticeable difference in the pull and the final output.I can’t think of any major flaws or anything I’d necessarily change. Just a couple of items of caution. It can feel a little unstable when pulling at high pressure (approaching 10 bars or more). I’ve never had an actual issue, but it keeps me on my toes. Also, the puck cap is critical. I’ve made the mistake of leaving it off a few times and it is a pain to clean up. I never use a cap with my Pavoni and it’s never and issue.I’d recommend the Flair 58 to anyone interested in a lever espresso machine. Pavonis are fun, but this offers a faster workflow with more control at a much lower price point. And I would personally only go for the Flair Pro for travel purposes.
I received my 58 recently, and so far I think it’s great. I was able to get excellent results almost immediately. If you don’t have much experience brewing espresso, it might take a little more practice, but the results should be good before too long, especially if you have a quality grinder. I bought the 58 for use at home, and overseas. It was important to me that it works with 110 and 220 voltage. I already had a Flair pro, which I like, but the 58 is a big step up in every respect except for portability. My main espresso machine is a Decent, so I am used to working with the standard 58 mm portafilter. It’s great that the new Flair 58 has that since it makes puck preparation techniques easily transferable between machines. It’s fun to use an espresso brewer that ... MoreI received my 58 recently, and so far I think it’s great. I was able to get excellent results almost immediately. If you don’t have much experience brewing espresso, it might take a little more practice, but the results should be good before too long, especially if you have a quality grinder. I bought the 58 for use at home, and overseas. It was important to me that it works with 110 and 220 voltage. I already had a Flair pro, which I like, but the 58 is a big step up in every respect except for portability. My main espresso machine is a Decent, so I am used to working with the standard 58 mm portafilter. It’s great that the new Flair 58 has that since it makes puck preparation techniques easily transferable between machines. It’s fun to use an espresso brewer that relies completely on manual pressure. You will find it takes a bit of effort, but the leverage is excellent and the handle and arm are well-designed. It’s great to see the flow and to get the pressure read out on the gauge. Combined with a scale, you get nice control of the shot. I expect soon to connect a better scale by Bluetooth so I can use a phone app to track flow rates more precisely. I’ve had my eye on the Flair 58 before it hit the market, and I’m glad I got one now. Also glad I waited for this updated one, which includes a couple of nice improvements in the brewing mechanism. Bottom line, you can get café – quality espresso with the Flair 58, and it’s hard to say that about any other machine under $1000.
Right out the box my handle didn’t align with the logo on the centre of the base. Straight away I’m wondering about the quality of this comparatively expensive press. Next I find the handle mechanism has a ridiculous amount of play. I can wiggle it about by 10mm either way. This is seriously shonky engineering. Also out of the box, the mechanism squealed something awful. That’s because there are no bearings, no bushings - not even any grease on the pivots!! It’s like an engineering student’s prototype! Not surprisingly with all the play, the small silicon seal got nipped after a couple of weeks. 10c part but no spares included. The electrics seem like an afterthought - very clunky and there’s a big ugly transformer box. But it works so far. Another big complaint is ... MoreRight out the box my handle didn’t align with the logo on the centre of the base. Straight away I’m wondering about the quality of this comparatively expensive press. Next I find the handle mechanism has a ridiculous amount of play. I can wiggle it about by 10mm either way. This is seriously shonky engineering. Also out of the box, the mechanism squealed something awful. That’s because there are no bearings, no bushings - not even any grease on the pivots!! It’s like an engineering student’s prototype! Not surprisingly with all the play, the small silicon seal got nipped after a couple of weeks. 10c part but no spares included. The electrics seem like an afterthought - very clunky and there’s a big ugly transformer box. But it works so far. Another big complaint is the pathetic rubber ring you get to stop the water spilling out. It snags on the mechanism and won’t stay in place. My “premium espresso maker” now has a zip tie. As for actual operation, you really need to be a coffee nerd who’s happy to spend a lot of time fiddling. Grind is critical. And even once you nail it, you’ll probably have to start all over if you change your coffee. Next, it’s easy to let the pressure off for a moment and get a scalding explosion of hot water in your face (especially as the seals inevitably fail). Oh and I’ve discovered after 15 cups or so, the plunger rotates slowly - again, might be due to all the slop in the mechanism. If you don’t pay attention the slots line up and your pressure gauge pops out leaving you with a boiling hot stuck cylinder and no morning coffee until it cools and you can disassemble the whole cursed thing. So why don’t I give this the one star FU? Because no matter how much the Flair 58 scalds me, and frustrates me, and chews up inordinate amounts of my time and coffee, it does make REALLY good espresso. I just can’t understand how the engineering could be so bad on such a simple mechanism. At the price point it should feel smooth and high-quality even if the grind etc is a fiddle. Just a couple of bushings and washers would fix it. I’m adding hacks as I go to try to fix the play, but seriously, it should be built in and look and feel slick for this money - not hacked or held together with zip ties.
OK - here are my thoughts. Currently have ExpoBar Brewtus IV rotary pump, Mazzer grinder HG grinder, Mocca Master Brewer. Gene Cafe roaster. Sooooo, I live the espresso maker - reason why I am switching, is that my Expobar has been down for awhile, and getting parts has been a big hassle. Also, just started asking myself if there was another way to do this, rather than having a big, honking 70 pound machine on the counter all the time. So, boiled down the coffee making process - I already roast, so that doesn't change. Already weigh my coffee so that doesn't change I already grind, so that doesn't change. So, basically heating up water, and physically pressing is what changed. I LOVE the speed at which the brewhead heats up. I use a NESCAFE foamer for making lattes ... MoreOK - here are my thoughts. Currently have ExpoBar Brewtus IV rotary pump, Mazzer grinder HG grinder, Mocca Master Brewer. Gene Cafe roaster. Sooooo, I live the espresso maker - reason why I am switching, is that my Expobar has been down for awhile, and getting parts has been a big hassle. Also, just started asking myself if there was another way to do this, rather than having a big, honking 70 pound machine on the counter all the time. So, boiled down the coffee making process - I already roast, so that doesn't change. Already weigh my coffee so that doesn't change I already grind, so that doesn't change. So, basically heating up water, and physically pressing is what changed. I LOVE the speed at which the brewhead heats up. I use a NESCAFE foamer for making lattes or foaming milk. So, getting the flow down has been a bit of a challenge, but a first world problem eh? I haven't noticed much difference in the shot quality, for me it's more about the coffee in the shot, and whether I am using a blend or single entity. I do play around a bit with the volume of water in the receptacle, but have figured out a little trick to increase that a bit. But, other than that - no big whoop. I like it! Simple, great quality. and yeah, it works for me.....
I purchased a non-electric version, the Flair 58x. I think a lot of people would have bought a 58 instead of a Flair 58x. So I write mainly my impressions of the 58x compared to the 58. First of all, it's neat because there are no electrical wires. The slim Flair 58 can't hide the power cable and adapter behind it. I resolutely gave up those that spoiled its aesthetics. Heating up the brew cylinder can be a chore, but it's one more pleasure that a manual espresso machine can provide. It fits exactly on top of the Fellow Kettle, so you don't even need to use the Kettle Preheat Cap with it. Both the Flair 58 and 58x have a removable pin and latch that holds the hook in place. It does the job of holding the hook better, but unless you're a delicate person, taking it ... MoreI purchased a non-electric version, the Flair 58x. I think a lot of people would have bought a 58 instead of a Flair 58x. So I write mainly my impressions of the 58x compared to the 58. First of all, it's neat because there are no electrical wires. The slim Flair 58 can't hide the power cable and adapter behind it. I resolutely gave up those that spoiled its aesthetics. Heating up the brew cylinder can be a chore, but it's one more pleasure that a manual espresso machine can provide. It fits exactly on top of the Fellow Kettle, so you don't even need to use the Kettle Preheat Cap with it. Both the Flair 58 and 58x have a removable pin and latch that holds the hook in place. It does the job of holding the hook better, but unless you're a delicate person, taking it off every time to warm up the brew cylinder may make you regret not buying the 58. Of course, you can use the method of warming the brew cylinder with hot water instead of removing it every time. However, even if it is cumbersome, it will feel more romantic to heat it on a kettle. If you're a delicate person like me, you might prefer to take off, heat, and clean the brew cylinder every time. Anyway, this is a very beautiful machine. I'm still gazing at this beautiful thing and I'm sure I made a very good purchase.
Bought this as the least expensive yet highest quality way to enter the world of home espresso. There is NO shortage of experts who highly recommend lever espresso machines and as far as I can tell, they tend to prefer the Flair over other options. I can think of NO better way for a novice to literally "get the feel" of making espresso than with the best lever machine on the market that isn't thousands of dollars: The Flair 58LE.Also got a Niche grinder (as recommended by the same experts) and off I go figuring out how to dial it all in. Still learning. LOTS to learn, but after pulling a dozen shots or so, I think I might finally be "on the field" at least and on my way to being "inside the baseline," so to speak. So far, I think all of my flops come from poor puck ... MoreBought this as the least expensive yet highest quality way to enter the world of home espresso. There is NO shortage of experts who highly recommend lever espresso machines and as far as I can tell, they tend to prefer the Flair over other options. I can think of NO better way for a novice to literally "get the feel" of making espresso than with the best lever machine on the market that isn't thousands of dollars: The Flair 58LE.Also got a Niche grinder (as recommended by the same experts) and off I go figuring out how to dial it all in. Still learning. LOTS to learn, but after pulling a dozen shots or so, I think I might finally be "on the field" at least and on my way to being "inside the baseline," so to speak. So far, I think all of my flops come from poor puck prep (no distribution tool yet, etc.). I suspect that once those new toys arrive, I'll have a quantum leap in quality.My "okay" rating for "the quality of the espresso you brew with your Flair" question is 100% my fault for sure. It's a no-brainer that this machine is the bomb-dot-com and that I'll soon be making excellent espresso as my learning curve and workflow improve.Finally, the choice to buy the Flair 58LE took a while because I wanted to figure out whether to wait and buy a Decent for $3600 or the Flair for $600. Decided that it would be better to learn espresso the old-fashioned way NOW and get the fancy machine later when I save the $$$, versus wait a year or more and learn nothing. Will likely add a pressure profiler later to fake the Decent experience and learn more. Furthermore, I may decide that the Decent isn't worth it and spend that money on other things. Bottom line, it's a win-win for me regardless of what the future holds in expensive coffee toys, which one can never have too many of. Also, I'm a Physics Professor who wants to make an experiment/demonstration or two for my students -- lever machine makes way more sense in that regard.
My first espresso machine was a Gaggia Classic Pro which I eventually modded with a PID temperature controller and a different OPV pressure spring. I had used this setup for over a year and obtained tasty espresso from it. The idea of a manual lever machine always interested me, especially when hearing reviews about manual pressure profiles that machines like the Gaggia just can't replicate. While I am still learning it has been a bunch of fun and I've begun to get good shots over the few weeks I've been running it daily. The GCP still gets plugged in for occasional milk steaming since this device naturally cannot do that portion. The operation is not inherently difficult and it is generally very easy to maintain.My one and only complaint is the incredibly loud ... MoreMy first espresso machine was a Gaggia Classic Pro which I eventually modded with a PID temperature controller and a different OPV pressure spring. I had used this setup for over a year and obtained tasty espresso from it. The idea of a manual lever machine always interested me, especially when hearing reviews about manual pressure profiles that machines like the Gaggia just can't replicate. While I am still learning it has been a bunch of fun and I've begun to get good shots over the few weeks I've been running it daily. The GCP still gets plugged in for occasional milk steaming since this device naturally cannot do that portion. The operation is not inherently difficult and it is generally very easy to maintain.My one and only complaint is the incredibly loud obnoxious beep that occurs when 1) plugging in the device and 2) the device comes to temperature. Given the temperature controller shows lights that stop flashing when the device comes to temperature I do not find the beep necessary (especially on plug in), however in a scenario where it is helpful to have that audible beep I would prefer it to be far less grating to the ears.
| Portafilter Capacity | 16-22g |
| Brews | Approx 50-60ml |
| Pressure | Up To 12 Bars |
| Power | 48 watts |
| Assembled Weight | 3.6kg |
