Great for the do-it-yourselfer who is willing play a little to find the best settings.
Positive Product Points
I have enjoyed using this roaster and drinking the fresh roasted coffee. It is easy to use and maintain. The small quantities mean your coffee is even fresher!
Negative Product Points
The only thing I wanted to add to other users comments was that after about 14 months of use (about two roasts per week) my glass roasting chamber developed a crack in the plastic base.
Detailed Commentary
The cracked base didn't prevent use. Then about a month later the glass itself developed a crack. I am ordering a new one from Fresh Beans, Inc. for $17.95 using the form included with the roaster. The glass chamber is not covered in the one-year warranty, so I'd be on my own if it had failed during the first year. The manufacturer should consider improving this design if it is typical for the chamber to fail after this relatively short time.
I always operate my roaster on the front porch or back step because the smoke and smell are a bit much for my wife and daughter. Since I live in a mild climate, that isn't a problem.
The roast is controlled by the timer and a sliding vent damper (?). Small adjustments to the slider can make a big difference in the roast, so be careful not to change it accidentally.
Buying Experience
I purchased it from the Williams Brewing (of San Leandro , CA) catalog as part of a kit including a starting supply of fresh beans. No problems.
