Great value. Quality product. Solid warranty support
Negative Product Points
Not ideal for very dark roasts
Detailed Commentary
Used product for only a month but have ran enough loads to realize that I am happy with my purchase. The roasting experience: My first load I almost torched the beans. By this I mean you really need to pay VERY close attention to the last few minutes. I am used to hearing a well defined first "crack" and then some time later a second "cracking" period, but with the Behmor the first "crack" is almost indistinguishable and the more violent "cracking" you clearly hear is actually the second crack. You do not want to go into the second "crack" too far or you will have flames coming from your beans. Trust me. Drawback of this machine: Those who want a really dark roast will need to "cheat" and be vigilant at the end of the roast cycle. There are several ways to cheat but one would be to put 3/4 pound of beans and set the machine on one pound. Sweet Maria's has a good "write up" on this. Warranty: Had one minor problem from start which could have been caused by shipping. Behmor took care of it immediately with no hassles. I have been in the service business for 30 years and have dealt with a slue of manufacturers and RARELY do any of them exceed my expectations as Behmor has done. Top marks here!! Summary: Overall it's a great machine for all roasts but the darkest, even though you can still get there. If all you roast is very dark then get a different machine. Value - I have to rate this tops also. Look around and you will see that for $300. this is a very fair price. Must do: As Sweet Maria's recommends have a little vacuum handy and vac out the chaff inside the machine after every use. Tips: I use a roll of 3/4" wide painters tape to set my drum on when I'm filling it. This is the blue or orange tape sold at any home supply store.
Hope this helps someone and enjoy the roast!
Terry
Buying Experience
Great! -- Sweet Maria's
Three Month Followup
xxx
One Year Followup
Well, it's actually been 1.5 years since I purchased this product and all is good. I have roasted 3 pounds a week on average and this machine keeps working well. Mind you I vacuum out after every use and clean with simple green after about every 6 roasts. Just have to keep an "ear" out at the end so we don't have a little camp fire going on like my first roast! I improve my roast flavor by roasting one batch lighter and then one darker; then blending together. Great product here-- well done Joe.
