Solid, reliable, looks cool, stores a pound of coffee, grind is right for drip after performing the mod.
Positive Product Points
Solid, heavy, relatively quiet, consistent, no mechanical problems in ~2 years. After performing minor modification the grind is just right for my drip purposes (I don't use it for espresso) Stores a pound of coffee.
Negative Product Points
Chute needs regular (every time) cleaning with included brush. Beware of raising the chute cover during grinding!
Detailed Commentary
I am a veteran of innumerable whirly grinders, and this was my introduction to burr machines. I bought it based on the looks (I love retro kitchen stuff) and KitchenAid's reputation. When the machine arrived I was pleased with the apparent build quality. I had to adjust my preparation routine to accommodate this machine's apparent inability to grind fine enough; in order to make coffee as strong as I like I found myself using a LOT of beans ground coarser than usual. The results varied from so-so to great, but consistently tastier than my previous work with any whirly.
I recently became dissatisfied with having to put up with the coarse grind and was just beginning the R&D cycle leading to another grinder when I came across Erik Francey's review in this section detailing the mod that allows a finer grind. After trying this I'm quite happy with this machine.
Buying Experience
I bought this grinder from ABT Electronics, and the buying experience was just fine; reasonable price, item was in stock as advertised, shipping was prompt, and the item arrived unharmed.
