The postman delivered a new to me DF83 Gen 1 with SSP HU burrs. Just had fun dialing it in over lunch for espresso. It is a huge step up from the Niche Zero it replaces for espresso.
I would feel the same if somebody posted a p100 or Monolith Flat MAX, but then they also way more expensive like the DF83 with SSP burrs is vs. the Zero.
As a Canadian the DF83 with the SSP burrs is actually pretty close the Niche zero price wise due to how their distribution works. Essentially you pay UK tax and Canadian duties at least the last time I checked last year.
The zero is terrible value new in Canada in that case. I actually think that the zero is a bit over priced in the UK now due to cheaper options like the Ode.
It's poor value but for many years it was the only modern single dose style conical grinder especially one with very solid workflow so people gritted there teeth and paid for it.
I have a significant disdain for anything from Fellow after a few bad experiences.
The workflow on the Zero is best in class as long as you aren't trying to slow feed and/or hot start for better coffee. It gets painful to work around the lid closure detection if you do.
Most of the "budget/high value" grinders such as the DF83 have significant workflow problems compared to more premium rivals like the Zerno or even the Zero, but for a handful of shots per day you have to be pretty picky for workflow to be a higher priority choice than grind quality.
I do think the hype with it has sustained it so far, you even see people with Linea Minis with one as their only grinder, talk about back to front. I am expecting to sell mine for almost as much as I paid for my used DF83, which is just insane.
I don't rate the Ode as best in class, but with the right burrs it leaves the Zero for dead despite being less than half the price in the UK.