Espresso Machines

[Lateralus]

Ok then 5punkers, anyone else here love espresso? I've lived with a guy for three years who had one of these and I've developed quite a taste for espresso. Due to the recent celebration of my birth, I now have a little money and I think I'd like to get myself an espresso machine. I'm currently thinking of getting the Kenwood Retro Coffee Maker as my old housemate had, but I thought I'd see if anyone has a different model they'd particularly recommend?

I'm not interested in any of the recent "pod" type ones where you have to buy a special coffee pouch like the Nespresso or Phillips Senseo, but a proper one where you make it with proper coffee. The higher the pressure and power of the machine the better, but my budget is up to about £120. What does the collective 5punk reckon?

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm, coffeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

[MIkkyo]

Italian coffee pots are quite good and really cheep, does teh same job straining it and all.

[Lateralus]

Do you mean those 2-part stove-top things? Had one and I didn't like it I'm afraid. Far too easy to burn the coffee, no crema at all, and taste was generally pretty poor. In my opinion, of course. Had a mate who loved his, but each to their own.

[Lateralus]

I'm currently thinking of possibly the Gaggia Cubika.