Melitta cones are one of the best kept brewing secrets. They are fast, rugged, portable, and easy. They are invaluable to anyone who has trouble finding good coffee while travelling.
Negative Product Points
It takes some playing with to get really good at using one of these. Otherwise, the device is so simple, its hard to say anything negative.
Detailed Commentary
I discovered the Melitta while trying to find a coffee maker I could travel with. I have a hard time finding good coffee in a number of places I visit, so I've always wanted a way to brew coffee on the road. Taking my own machine is bulky and messy, but the filter cone, coffee, and a grinder are simple to pack and clean up.
Brewing couldn't be easier. Put in a #2 cone filter, add a measure of coffee, and pour hot water over it. A relatively fine grind is needed to get a slow enough extraction. I've found that pouring in just enough water to cover the grounds, and then letting them bloom for a few seconds, makes the whole process go smoothly. The coffee that is produced is on par with what I can do with my press pot. Once you find the correct water temperature and the right grind, you can make clean, bright coffee. I home roast and like to use the cone to test my roast before brewing with any other method. The quick brewing seems to work well with freshly roasted beans.
My wife, who is definitely not a coffee snob, also loves the Melitta. She likes to make an afternoon cup, and until recently has used (gag...) Folger's coffee bags. The cone has made a coffee convert out of her, and she's starting to really enjoy better coffee.
Buying Experience
I purchased it at a kitchen supply store - paid for it and walked out. These cones are available in many places, and have recently started popping up in Target, Kmart, etc.
