Decent Home Espresso Machine?

Q: Can anyone give me an opinion on what would be a decent home espresso machine? I've read the FAQ, and decided that a pump-driven machine is probably what I'm looking for, and would like advice on what specific brand to get/avoid, how much to spend, and where to buy from (I don't know of a store around here that actually has any real machines in stock. The best I've seen was a krups steam machine). I'd like to not spend a fortune on it, but I want something that will make espresso. My steam machine makes a decent substitue for capuccino and latte, but that just doesn't quite cut it. Any advice or opinions are appreciated.

A: Visit Coffee Journal's Web site for a review of about a dozen currently available home machines. The reviews aren't exhaustive, nor are they particularly informative, but they list features and sources and all the machines come highly recommended. Prices range from about $200 to $1,500. Brands to look for: Solis, Faema, Cimbali, Krups, Reneka, Rancilio, Illy, and many, many others. David Bogie hopeless espresso hound Keeper of the MiniFAQ on Home Espresso Machines I'd recomend the Estro Vapore or one of the Solis machines. The former can be found at many Starbuck's stores (on sale lots of times). I've had mine for over two years now and it is still going strong making great espresso. The best part is the cost on this one is around $249 even at full price. You'll also want to plan to get a decent grinder as well. That will likely run another $100-$150. Oh, and buy the machine at Starbucks but find a place that knows how to roast coffee to buy the beans from.

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