just got back from italy, and have been looking for a midrange espresso maker (capuccini for me) 
Briel Chamonix Espresso Maker
it was just $149.99 last week, but they lowered it to $129.99 just a few days ago, cheapest i have found it. too bad there arent any coupons available.
you could also go with krups, but i heard briels are really good at making european style espresso/capuccino.
and for good beans, illy (www.illy.com) beans have a really good reputation for some reason over there.
Briel Chamonix Espresso Maker
it was just $149.99 last week, but they lowered it to $129.99 just a few days ago, cheapest i have found it. too bad there arent any coupons available.
you could also go with krups, but i heard briels are really good at making european style espresso/capuccino.
and for good beans, illy (www.illy.com) beans have a really good reputation for some reason over there.