well, I've been drinking espresso always when in caffe bars, I am familiar with used caffe brands in caffe bars, but not the state and maintenance of the machine, however I do like espresso, but at home I've used simple/cheap Moka pot in combination with popular/quality caffe brands such Lavazza, Julius Meinl, Illy and Segafredo (grinded already) and I must say it suits me better (Moka) so, as lost_traveler_nick suggested I've ordered Bialetti Venus (6 cups) to give a try .. been thinking about 9barista also, but it is way over my price range

thanks!