The Gaggia Classic Pro Evo is out! Click here for a full review. This is a 2023 revision on the much loved Gaggia Classic Pro which also punched far above its price class. The Evo is around $500. If you're looking for a deal, now might be a good time to snatch up a refurbished unit of the older model. I found one for $375 with a web search.
Here is a separate video of the differences between the two models in more detail. The title post is a full review/overview.
Edit: I just realized you can't have both an image and a linked video unless you put the link in the body. I added the actual full review link at the top.
Been really thinking about buying a classic pro to mod, hopefully this makes it easier
A buddy of mine was shopping for a machine and I suggested he look for old classics on eBay.
I'm shocked at how much they have shot up in price. Almost certainly because of modders, but still. I got mine 5 years ago for something around $100, but when we checked a few months ago it was hard to find proper ones under $350.
Then again, I installed a PID kit on mine and don't regret it.