OT: Espresso machines

As a first espresso machine, I recommend the semi-automatic Breville Barrista Express BES870XL. I use it daily and have found it to be a solid machine. After 20 years, I’ve only had to replace the pump for $24 and a few hours of my time. 
It has an integrated grinder which is pretty good. I weigh out the beans and fill the hopper for each serving.

These machines require a little practice to dial in the espresso shot. That’s a bit of an art unto itself.  There are better machines and better grinders, however, that’s a very slippery slope.
 

I have no doubt these machines appeal to a large segment of gear heads in this forum so you are likely to get some great advice.

Good luck in your search and please keep us posted as to your progress. 

Gaggia seems to be the gold standard for value and quality without whistles and bells.

It does not get simpler and narrower than this:  https://flairespresso.com/product/neo-flex which I have, as well as a DeLonghi. La Pavoni is also narrow. I tried fancy espresso machines, they were not reliable and insignificant quality differences. 

One of the best espressos I ever had was on an old simple hand pulled machine. I can't imagine those cost much. The other great one I distinctly remember was a glitzy coffee bar in Palermo, near the docks, that had Illy branded all over the shop-- assume the macchina was also Illy but don't remember. We have a quality burr grinder here but do pour overs- that's how I've been making coffee for 50 years at home. I think our current bean comes from Costa Rica- lots of flavor but not super high caffeine. 

@whart by hand pulled, you mean the one's that literally have a lever on them you pull to push the water through?

AHhh, ok so I don't want LED/LCD diplsays but I was thinking of something with a built in water tank, milk frother.  Not thinking about the mechanical types, but if others want to discuss sure.