Profitec Pro 500

Pros

• I would absolutely recommend this machine for you, however its looks are similar to the Synchronika. ... The heaviest use I’ve put into my 500 is about 4 lattes back to back and it ran without a single issue.
• I own a Profitec Pro 500 and a Fellow Opus. I upgraded my machine coming from a Breville Barista Express in the last year. After multiple months of usage, I’m loving it!
• I got a refurbished pro 500 last year from Whole Latte Love and the machine came in perfect condition and has run flawlessly ... I got this machine on sale with FC for $1400 when they were running a sale on their refurbished stock and it...
• The P500 is a HX. Both are well made with best-in-class materials. ... The P500 can be fitted with a Flow Control kit. My P500 came with the FC kit. ... I guess the P500 also sports a larger water reservoir. For this, bigger is better.
• I stick to these to flushes and I get good tasting results. I mostly drink espresso and long black drinks. ... The HX can work just fine for you, unless you mostly drink super light roast black drinks where temperature variance is most n...

Cons

• I have a Pro 500 but in your range, the Profitec Go is regarded as one of the best single boiler machines.
• I was in a shop recently and they mentioned some potential issues with the Pro 500.
• While I love my Profitec 500, do know that modern HX machines are criticized for having a very restricted thermosyphon flow rate... I doubt you'll get 5 back to back shots without significant heat loss - could lead to sour shots.