good starter grinder. Do not even think of using it for heavy use.
Positive Product Points
As a starter grinder it definitely has value. It looks great and doesn't cost much compared to other burr grinders.
Negative Product Points
Beans stick in the feed way too much. Cleaning is easy, but cleaning often is necessary. The model I have does not go course enough for french press.
Detailed Commentary
I have owned a solis maestro for 3 years. I use it as my home grinder exclusively. I have never had any mechanical failures. But I am often having to help feed the beans into the grinder by shoving the handle of a spoon into the feed area. I use oily beans typically and this makes the issue of bean feeding worse. I regularly clean the grinder after every pound because of this and find this annoying. The other thing I find annoying is grinding for french press. For my tastes I find it difficult to grind coarse enough to provide some level of tuning. For 6 cups of water I generally use 6 tablespoons of coffee. But if the bean is a little old or especially fresh I have trouble changing the portions of coffee because adding even a teaspoon more or less has a dramatic effect on quality. Maybe I am being picky.
I would only recommend this machine as a starter machine and only to combine them with forgiving espresso machines.
Buying Experience
Bought at WholeLatteLove. Had no problem with purchase. Found the reviews there almost as helpful as the reviews on coffeegeek in helping me make my purchase.
Three Month Followup
Same deal. I think the grinder is a great starter grinder but does not hold a candle to the rocky or fdm.
