An excellent grinder for the money, at least for drip.
Positive Product Points
A year and half ago I bought the Baratza Virtuoso. Upon receiving the unit, I had a great expectation because the previous grinder I owned was a (Solis maestro). The Virtusos did not work properly with oily beans, (Peets Major Dikason's blend). The beans just would not drop down properly. There was also a problem of extreme static issues. I finally set it aside and bought the (KitchenAid Proline), and have been using it since. The Proline is a very decent grinder for drip.
Krya at Baratza, recently e-mail concerning the bins static issues, (I've been testing these for her off and on throughout this time), but with this machine static was always a problem!! I told her that I was disappointed with the unit. She said, (Please try the newer model with much improved properties). It was sent to me, and I have been using it since. This newer model has been improved greatly! They reduced the motor speed, and thus now the beans move down in a much more consistent manner. Oily beans still might need to be coaxed slightly, (depending on the household temperature/humidity, but it really functions considerably better! I have not had any static issues with the supplied bin! The bin is painted black, (with some sort anit-static paint). I do have other bins to test, but I really don't see a need too. Kyra has been very accommodating concerning this product!! The black painted bin make the unit look very elegant, and I told her that. This newer Virtuoso needs to be considered again when folks are considering a new grinder or upgrade. The forty step adjustment is very precise, and ever though I'm not into expresso, it shoud be considered. The burrs look to be very precisely made, and lock in position accurately.
Negative Product Points
So far, the only issue I have with this unit, is the noise. It's a higher frequency sound that can be a little irritation in the morning. I'm comparing it to the (Kitchenaid Proline Grinder), which is less noisy due to the totally metal housing. Baratza should consider an all metal housing and call it (Virtuoso Professional).
Detailed Commentary
The Virtuoso is a much improved machine. I think that for the money, it should be considered, at least for drip. I don't have any experience making espresso. I did check the grind setting, at a much finer setting, and I seems to me that It could be a good espresso grinder! If you do decide to try this unit make sure you get the very latest model. Talk to Kyra at Baratza, she is very helpful!! If you have an older unit, and were not satisfied with it like myself, call them and she will sent out the newer model. I think I can speak for her?
The grind, ( at least for drip), does not have much power residue. This should make for less bitter cup of coffee. I use the technivorm brewer, and the coffee has been fantastic!! I set the grind at an indication of twenty. You need to experiment yourself concerning the grind setting. The Technivorm machine requires a finer grind. The micro-switch for espresso use is also much improved. You just need a very light touch to cycle the grinder.
