It is definitely easier to make a red-eye coffee with a super-automatic espresso machine, but a normal drip coffee maker and manual espresso machine can also achieve the same taste. A French press and a moka pot would even work well for making a red eye!  The key to making a red eye is to start with a strongly brewed cup of drip coffee. If you're using a regular drip coffee maker, this means using more grounds than usual. For a manual espresso machine, it means pulling a longer shot.  Once you have your strongly brewed coffee, add hot water until it reaches the desired strength. Finally, top it off with a splash of milk or cream and enjoy!