The specialty coffee world is, like the wine world, full of much baloney. However, there is a very real difference, if, you hit it. Only way to tell is to try the various offerings and see which one grabs you.

I do suggest a new machine. I bought a Presto Scandinavian Design Coffee Maker a year or so ago and it is both fabulous and cheap. I read many reviews of various makers before I bought it and I think it is a superior machine. Evidently the big difference is that the water is heated twice, once right at the spraying head so it is exactly right when it hits the coffee. Be sure to buy a gold plated filter element. Machine is $40 or less around Xmas or on sale, filter around $20.

Also, a good grinder makes a big difference. Freshly ground coffee is better coffee. The coffee lovers usually suggest a burr grinder, but I have a blade which is good enough for the moment.

Bottoms up!