Coffee, people. How do you prefer to grind and brew?

Do you get particular about how you make coffee or are you happy not putting much thought into it? Have you invested in a kick ass grinder or coffee maker and has it paid dividends?

I have stovetop espresso maker, a run of the mill grinder and a couple of middling drip machines. I’d like to just find something that works great every time without too much hassle or cost, but I’d be willing to negotiate on the hassle factor and ask for something fancy for Christmas or a birthday.

Please note that I’m only interested in the grinding and brewing—not in the milk, foam, cinnamon, or whip.