It appears Baratza has updated their base Virtuoso model with the same burrs as their Preciso Does this make the Virtuoso the best electric grinder for under $250? Is the Preciso worth the extra $100?
SeattleCoffeeGear did a couple youtube reviews discussing the 586, and even comparing it to Breville's Smart Grinder (which it seems to have edged out in a shot vs shot comparison)
I have this grinder, it is very consistent in terms of the grounds. There are 40 steps, and usually 10-0 is for espresso, and it definitely grinds fine enough for espresso. I would compare it to what people are saying about the Rocky: it's disadvantage is its lack of precise adjustment. But for 250 you can't really go wrong I don't think.
If you look around online, you can find the 586 for $200 w/ free shipping. That's what I paid for mine and I'm pretty happy with it. Eventually I want to upgrade to a stepless, but for the time being, my budget is happy with the Virtuoso Preciso.
ideally, i think i would like to spend $200, but I have to consider if I'd be happy with a $200 grinder in the long run i wonder how the new virtuoso compares to the gaggia mdf which used to cost ~300, the same price as the preciso... decisions decisions... :p
Christopher, since you've posted this under espresso grinders I'm assuming that's your intended use? I would absolutely say the Preciso is worth it. The steps of the virtuoso are too large to even come close to dialing in a grind.
I forgot to mention earlier but yes, espresso grinding is my primary intended use. I'd hate to find that the perfect setting is between two steps, so the Preciso looks like a choice I can live with in the long run. thanks for the feedback everyone
Just curious, where did you find it for $200 w/ free shipping? I already ordered a Vario, but Virtuoso 586 seems like a really good deal. The only issue is the lack of microadjustments, which may make dialing in grinds a little tough.
I guess the workarounds for having a grinder with fewer steps is to alter the dose and / or tamp pressure?
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