... One is coffee and the other is coffee ground "tea."
And, I'm by no means a coffee snob.
*sigh*
I don't want to argue the definitions of 'coffee' and 'espresso', nor 'objective' and 'subjective'.
I appreciate your enthusiasm for the drink, however, and also all the responses in this thread regarding how to heat water.
One of my requirements for the product is a somewhat low price. I'm afraid I can't spend $50 for a water heating strategy, even if it is the most efficient/fastest/adjustable.
I also require a little flexibility in use- hot water for things
other than coffee (egad!), for example. So you see, a dedicated espresso machine is out of the question.
@
larry818 The hot water 'pot' is an interesting angle I hadn't though of. I'll have to keep my eyes peeled for something that might work. They seem to be larger than the electric kettles, though, and I rarely would need capacity beyond a quart.
hmm more searching
Thanks very much for the replies!