Approximately 200 degrees F is best. This is easiest to control with a cone drip system. If you have an automatic drip system, check the temperature setting. A fine grind works best at no more than 4 minutes. No more than 8 minutes for a regular grind.
Stainless steel is acceptable, but stay away from aluminum.
Coffee brewed in an aluminum pot will absorb traces of the aluminum and taint the coffee. A coffeemaker that has a capacity of 8 cups will perform best making 8 cups. Make sure you have ample coffee for the amount you are brewing. A good rule of thumb is 2 teaspoons for every 6 ounces of water. It will only make the new coffee worse.