[colonhyphenp]

I am in the same boat with the french press - I really can't tell that much of a difference between a cup of freshly roasted/ground french press coffee and a cup of coffee at Starbucks.

However, I recently switched to an Aeropress single cup coffee maker, and it is a HUGE difference - it makes a small concentrated cup of coffee with very little bitterness, and brings out the coffee's natural sweetness. Also, I find it easier to use and clean than a french press. See http://www.aerobie.com/Products/aeropress_story.htm

[tortilla]

Yep, I did the same. The French Press was great and all, but I couldn't produce a good cup consistently and it was quite messy. Didn't particularly like the grit either. Have been using the Aeropress for about 4 months straight and really love it. The flavors are great, clean up is quick and painless. Now I'm thinking about roasting my own beans. A local roaster recommended the Behmor: http://www.sweetmarias.com/prod.behmor.php

[xayide]

I’ve never had good results using a french press with a blade grinder. You need such a coarse grind for the press, and fine grit is just inevitable with a cheap blade. I got a burr grinder several years ago, and my french press coffee has improved immensely. Of course, the clean up still sucks - I only break out the press for fresh, interesting coffee that I happen in to.

[iron_ball]

What's wrong with the cleanup? I've never had a clog just rinsing the grounds right down the kitchen sink.

[roedog88]

I like that Aeropress is made by the same people who invented better Frisbees and yoyos. It's got that old school geek charm, which has motivated me to try it out. From a marketing perspective it seems that in addition to the stimulant use I'm using coffee as a way to define myself as a clever and discerning person.

[cvg]

Can't beat the Aeropress for the price. Saving tons of money by stopping my daily Peet's runs.