very good grinder, will do the job for anyone, needs frequent cleaning
Positive Product Points
Looks good, grinds consistently, has infinitely variable grind adjustment-can grind anything from turkish on up.
Negative Product Points
Knobs are not well made; rest of grinder seems to be well made. Coffee builds up in shute-needs to be cleaned regularly. Not easy to access.
Detailed Commentary
This grinder is considered "semi-professional"; it is used in espresso bars as a secondary, "small" grinder-e.g., for grinding decaf and not the "regular grind". About 15 inches in height. Hopper holds up to 500 grams. A serious grinder for serious coffee making. The burr setting is infinitely adjustible in very fine increments.
My espresso (made with a Gaggia "Espresso") has been quite consistent and good since I started using this grinder.
The model I own has a "timer", not a doser (A sister model comes with a standard doser, instead of the timer). I‘ve set the grinding time for one standard dose of espresso-ground coffee, so all I have to do is place the portafilter under the spout and press once for a one shot dose and twice for a two shot dose. Very simple and efficient-no "playing around". Works every time unless I use a radically different type of bean, and then I need to adjust the timer.
I got a deal on it-$100; it can sell for as much as $160.
Buying Experience
No comment
Three Month Followup
After experience with this machine of several months, I am adding 3 comments (keep in mind that overall I am quite happy with the machine): 1) The infinite adjustments are inconvenient if you switch types of brewing often b/c it is difficult to "get back" to a previous setting. I use this grinder only for espresso and still use my previous, simpler grinder for the occasions when I use a moka pot or drip maker.
2) Ground coffee gets stuck in the exit and will build up there if not taken care of frequently. It is not designed for easy cleaning. Not a problem if you take a minute every few shots to do a quick clean, but if you don't pay attention buildup will occur.
3) The grinder has difficulty grinding very oily beans. I don't usually use such beans, so for me it's not a problem.
If I ever win the lottery I will probably buy a full commercial grinder, but this one is more than adequate for quality espresso in the home.
