Buy it - I beleive this is the best machine in its class
Positive Product Points
Easy to use Two preset Light or Dark Roasts Ability to customize roasting times and tempertaures End result is high quality fresh roasted coffee Very attractive product, "nice looking" machine, good design
Negative Product Points
The machine is loud Does emit some smoke 2 hour wait between roasts Can only roast 4 oz
Detailed Commentary
Living in Hawaii, the are numerous local coffee farms that produce well known Kona coffee. Quality coffee is also grown in other parts of Hawaii by small organic farmers. I usually bought high quality Kona coffee from these farmers and would seek out those who have won cupping competions that are held here several times a year. Having tried those coffees serves as a "benchmark" to compare against. Many of these farmers offer green beans for 35-50% less money. This is my first coffee roaster, and I read many reveiws before making my purchase. I am amazed at the quality of the roast, it's as good or better than any pre-roasted coffee I have ever purchased. I use a burr grinder and brew my coffee in a French Press. There are 2 idiot proof preset roasts - Light and dark. However, IMO, the best feature of the iRoast is the ability to ceate your own 3 stage roasting curve. You can roast coffee that is as good as anything you can buy anywhere. The only negatives, is that the IRoast is a bit noisy, and you need a well ventilated area to roast in. The IRoast does include an attachment to connect an exhaust hose,.. The capacity is approx 4 oz per roast, but this is fine as you can roast a half a pound in a short time. My only regret is that I did not buy something like this a long time ago!
Buying Experience
Hilo Coffee Roasters in Hilo HI, are experienced in all aspects of coffee production, wholesale and retail...They also offer many varieties of local and Kona Coffee, they are an excellent source with attentive, knowledgeble owners and staff that serve it up with Aloha...
