I asked my wife if it tasted better than drip and she said it tastes the same to her. Maybe it is just being able to control how long the grounds steep?

I can't contribute an opinion since I don't even like the smell of coffee. At least I don't have to put up with my ex-boss making a pot of 'flavored' coffee; that smell was nearly enough to make me ill.

I get my kicks from Diet Coke, but I can't stomach cold fluids in the morning so I just drink it at room temperature much of the time. I try to keep to about 3 cans per day (I'm not a fan of caffeine-withdrawl migraines).

I also took amphetamines for years (time-released, by prescription). My controlled dose was better than caffeine -- fewer side effects. But it would allow sleep deprivation to get out of hand, which eventually leads to major side effects (only once for me).

I'm going to try Vitamin C (in water) and see if it gives me a boost. Linus would be proud.

-- Zippy