I was not an Espresso drinker until my son purchased the KitchenAid coffee grinder, so i decided to purchase this matching Espresso machine.  Sooo many different machines out there, and this one appeared to be a quality machine, matched our coffee grinder, and voila!
I am still experimenting...all espresso machines are high maintenance.  A matter of getting accustomed to it, if you want a great cup!