You are right. I’ve gone through a couple of those-wonderful espresso, but the rubber ring keeps deteriorating on me. I may get another when our never ending kitchen renovation is finally done. I have a Chemex for plain coffee and the special filters must reduce the caffeine because I don’t get jittery with coffee made in it. I do love an espresso, though.
When your reno is done and you have some extra coin:
I’ve had mine for over 20 years and love it. Use it daily for our lattes. Wife and I have them each afternoon. I did purchase it in Italy though ... at about 1/2 the current price.