I too did a lot of research before buying this one. So far I am very satisfied with this product. It is very well built, no problems yet with the handle or cover. The base is very heavy gauge steel suitable for heating water. I have a gas stove range and this sits well on my burners. Depending on the heat (instructions say to use low heat.) I use med. to low.... it takes 7 min or less to completely brew. One quick note regarding the 6 cup model. It brews about 8 0z of espresso which is suitable for two people. If you are one person, you will probably end up throwing a little extra away. You may want the 4-cup model for just one person. If you are preparing espresso for a dinner party then you may want larger than a 6-cup model. Also you can make a regular American cup of coffee by adding hot water to your espresso, at approx. 1:1 ratio depending on your taste. The straight espresso is great as a topping for ice cream, try it.