Hello,
I remember when I used to get confused with the 6 oz. versus the 8 ounce cup. It can be very frustrating trying to find the right coffee and water ratio that's right for your taste. However, once you figure it out, then if you do it the same way each time, you'll be happy with the results.
I could never rely on the water level markers on the drip coffee makers that I've had. They were all very inacurrate. I finally resorted to measuring the water in a large measuring cup and pouring it in the coffee maker. I would multiply 6 x 6 ounces and measure 36 ounces of water, and pour it into the coffee maker. That way, if I wanted to have enough coffee for 4 eight-ounce mugs, (32 ounces) I'd have plenty of coffee, with a little to spare.
If you base your coffee measurements on using the 6 ounces of water per cup, then you should measure the ground coffee accordingly. If you like your coffee mild (like most restaurants serve it) then use one level tablespoon for each 6 ounce cup of water that you put into the coffee maker. If you use 36 ounces of water, then you'd use 6 level tablespoons of ground coffee. Then, if you find that the coffee is too weak, add more coffee the next time that you make it. Maybe try using 8 tablespoons of ground coffee to 36 ounces of water and see how you like it.
It will take some experimenting in order for you to get your coffee to turn out right. Also, as time goes on, you may need to make adjustments based on the kind of coffee that you use. There is a difference in taste when you use darker roast verses a lighter roasted coffee.
I know a lot of people say that when you use a drip coffee maker, you should adjust the volume of water that you use and not adjust the amount of coffee. I tried doing it that way with little success. I prefer to adjust the amount of coffee that I use rather than the amount of water.
I hope this helps you.
Good luck.
Rose