Earlier quoted context omitted.
Wrong narative. I love espresso. But comparing it with 250 euro espresso machine, I highly doubt that it will make 500% better coffee, for wast majority of the owners, cleaning one And I am not saying that any other mentioned "mid range" espresso machine is worth that money.
You could make the same argument about a 250 euro espresso machine and a 30 euro moka pot. If the materials are better and the buyer likes it, it’s worth it to them at least. I think most people who own an espresso machine understand it’s a luxury.
And "understanding it is a luxury" is why the prices are extreme.