That's another advantage of the vacuum pot... the water is forced up the tube at _exactly_ the correct temperature for brewing. Check out the Bodum Santos Electronic...
Go to coffeegeek.com for a lengthy education :). http://www.coffeegeek.com/guides/presspot You should also check out pressure (vacuum) pots... They are easier to clean and everything is in one unit. The coffee is easily on par with a French press.