Forgiving is subjective on a lever, I find. There are fewer nannies and parameters you can adjust to pull that God shot. Having said that, there's something for everyone nowadays.
I would argue that the Cremina was (and still is???) the benchmark for a good, solid, and reliable lever machine for the home enthusiast. But the market has come a long way and customers are far more discerning and there is a lever machine for everyone. Nevermind the rise of people with disposable income.
Oh wait, that's just you.
