Have never made coffee on the stovetop before, but now I love it!  Was able to free up considerable space on the counter by finding a new home for the existing electric coffee maker.  The instructions included in the percolator are well-written and easy to follow.  We have an electric range, and this little percolator works just great!  A tad squat to cover the small burner on the stove, and not so tall that it doesn't fit easily in the cupboard.  A winner!