I first posted this page in May of 2003, then updated it in late 2004. I've learned a lot since then, and realize that I have almost nothing to say that hasn't already been better said by others.

After struggling with (and wearing out from over-use) no less than three consumer-grade espresso machines, I finally broke down and invested in a decent prosumer machine with a heat-exchanger (HX) and E-61 group head.

Originally, my wife was not happy with the fact that I took out of commission one entire worksurface in our relatively small kitchen... However, now that she's had more than a few of my espresso drinks she's learning to live with the configuration.

I continue to humbly pursue excellence in my own espresso-making. Please follow these links for excellent coffee resources:

• Gimme! Coffee - Excellent educational PDFs. If you make it to Ithaca or Brooklyn from time to time, stop in to their espresso bar and have some of the best drinks in the eastern United States. Did I mention that they do mail-order beans as well?
• David Schomer - An espresso sage. Be sure to read his MSNBC story.
• Coffee Geek - Once you get serious about coffee you'll spend hours (days) here. See my review of the Anita and the Quick Mill doserless grinder.
• Whole Latte Love - Check out this tutorial on the golden rule of espresso.
• Home Barista - How I Stopped Worrying and Learned to Love Heat Exchangers