Espresso
For the espresso novice, I recommend a simple Italian stovetop coffee maker. It is the solution many in southern Italy prefer for making coffee in their own kitchen. 
The best stovetop espresso maker is probably the Brikka from Bialetti. It uses extra pressure to extract the espresso, which is produced with the desired "crema" at the top--a good indicator for the quality of the brew.
Making the Espresso
1. Buy a whole-bean espresso blend. Coarsely grind your beans just before you drink to enjoy a fresh taste.
2. If you do not have a coffee grinder, buy a pre-ground blend.
3. Follow the instructions of your espresso maker. It will vary from brand to brand.
4. A single American-style espresso is composed of 2 ounces. Make sure to stick to these measures.
5. Serve in small espresso cups.
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REVIEWS & COMMENTS
BREVITY
jbviau | Tue, 11/15/2011 - 21:54A short article for a short coffee.
THEY WORK BUT REALLY JUST
intrepid510 | Mon, 10/24/2011 - 23:56They work but really just get a grinder too for whatever type of coffee you want to drink.
MY BIAS
Wakeknot | Wed, 10/05/2011 - 13:06My bias is against stove top espresso makers, but I would argue (having only read about it and not used it) that the best stove top espresso maker is the Bacchi. Then again it is not simple and the reason I haven't tried it is that it is quite expensive. I'd love to try one some day though.
TIMING IS IMPORTANT TOO
EricBNC | Sun, 08/14/2011 - 22:192 fl oz - in 25 to 30 seconds - makes for a properly extracted shot provided the temperature is in the proper range.
AS A NOVICE ESPRESSO LOVER,
espressom | Sun, 05/22/2011 - 14:43As a novice espresso lover, I bought the Moka stovetop maker and it works fine. Although after 3 months of daily use I need to get another one.