Stove top machines are less than 20 bucks. Makes a fine cup of espresso.
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.