I'd suggest popping into the
Coffeegeek Forum and do some research there. I unloaded my espresso gear last summer after realizing that I wasn't using it anywhere near as much as I thought I would after having it for a couple of years. I had a Paquini Livia 90 Semi Auto and a Macap M4 Stepless Grinder. The grinder you use is the most important part of making espresso, and to get anything usable it's gonna run you $300+.
As far as the stovetop route. The only pot I would recommend is a Brikka, as it brews with some pressure behind it. It's not going to be "espresso" by definition (no stovetop pot will produce real espresso), but it'll make a nice brew that may likely satisfy the urge you're trying to quench. Most people don't realize how frustrating it can be trying to make good espresso. Behind all of the equipment purchases, technique comes into play. Even on the best of days...you may grind/brew 1-3 sink shots, before getting everything dialed in for something palatable. Think this one through very carefully, because you can spend a lot of money on equipment, that could easily buy you shots at the local shop for
several years.