Gig103 Senior Member Joined: 12 Feb 2012 Posts: 204 Location: Arizona Expertise: I like coffee
Espresso: Crossland CC1 Grinder: Baratza Vario Drip: French press!
Posted Sun May 13, 2012, 11:17pm Subject: $300 grinder that isn't from Baratza?
Hi all, I've documented my ongoing Preciso issues elsewhere, so for this thread I'm just wondering if there's an alternative grinder for $300 that will do what the Preciso is supposed to?
Sashas Senior Member Joined: 2 Nov 2011 Posts: 19 Location: Vancouver, BC Expertise: I live coffee
Posted Sun May 13, 2012, 11:32pm Subject: Re: $300 grinder that isn't from Baratza?
Like many on this forum I went with used commercial grinder and never looked back (La Pavoni Zip in my case). Highly recommended if room is not an issue.
Posted Mon May 14, 2012, 4:48am Subject: Re: $300 grinder that isn't from Baratza?
Pharos is a good one if you don't mind a little more effort. I've had both and would choose Pharos over Preciso anytime given my low volume usage. At least it won't get out of calibration and the taste was said to match titan conical grinders. Otherwise, for espresso-only grinder, most used commercial grinders like SJ, or even La Pavoni zip as mentioned above will do pretty well (and fall under $300).
Posted Mon May 14, 2012, 3:37pm Subject: Re: $300 grinder that isn't from Baratza?
We have the Breville Smart Grinder that retails for $199.99, and it does a great job. Apparently a shim kit can be had for free from the manufacturer if it doesn't grind fine enough for your espresso. Seattle Coffee Gear did a review on it here.
Posted Tue May 15, 2012, 8:33am Subject: Re: $300 grinder that isn't from Baratza?
With the burr carrier and grind adjust problems on the Precisio, to me it's not ready for prime time. (at least not for espresso.) Look at the tre-spade conical burr grinders for reliable consistent entry level. My Lelit PL53 has been a solid performer for over 4 years of daily use.
Gig103 Senior Member Joined: 12 Feb 2012 Posts: 204 Location: Arizona Expertise: I like coffee
Espresso: Crossland CC1 Grinder: Baratza Vario Drip: French press!
Posted Tue May 15, 2012, 11:48am Subject: Re: $300 grinder that isn't from Baratza?
Thanks to everyone for the responses!
I worked with Baratza this morning to trade in my Preciso for a Vario. Sure it costs more money but the reviews are that it's a great grinder without any of the problems the Preciso has, so I'm going to stick with the company for now. I do know that the flat burrs aren't as great for french press, but that's not my primary coffee drinking these days so I'm fine with it.
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