Starbucks quality espresso? Jesus, man. I feel sorry that you think espresso is supposed to taste like that. It always tastes like the ass end of the press to me.
I haven't dropped the coin on a Saeco, but my brother has one. It makes a sweeter espresso(more s a) than a regular Moka and it's done in less than 5 seconds. Of course, it costs 30x more than a Moka, but for most, that's less than they spend buying it on the go in a calender year.
And get better beans. Looks like LaVazza Super Crema in the cup above, which would be an excellent choice. Last time I checked, it was $23/kilo.
Anyone try the Brikka?