There's always Synesso and Slayer if you want to go American...
Both are Seattle-based IIRC. There are showrooms there that you can visit and try them out.
Seriously though, for 2.5k, hobz should start looking at entry level dual-boiler machines. Profitec Pro 300 makes great coffee and can be had for around 2k. Throw in a nice home grinder at ~600, you've got a great combo. And if you are not messing around with some crazy light-roasted beans and pouring 10+ shots continuously, I don't see the benefit of Slayer or Synesso. These machines are expensive because they've got a lot of commercial-grade parts that don't come cheap. But they offer consistency more than anything.