On the amateur coffee forums, not a day goes by without some poor schlep wondering why their brand new espresso machine gushes out only sickly thin, 15 second shots. And not a day goes by without somebody informing them that a quality espresso grinder is absolutely necessary to make good espresso.
Well, after a couple days of using the new 3 phase Robur instead of my old Mazzer Mini, I gotta paraphrase that nutty Steve Balmer guy: I LOVE this grinder!
The shots are thicker, longer, and tastier than before. The bottomless pours are a visual feast. Those big 83mm burrs, turning at a cool 420 rpm, make a soulful whirring sound as they slice through 17 grams of beans in less than 5 seconds.
This is really fun.
I'm more interested in how you got three phase power into your house than the actual grinder...
ReplyDeleteSheesh. As I told you back in March 2006, I use a variable frequency drive. It converts single phase into three phase, and allows you to vary the motor speed, too. Also, if I ever figger out how to register for Portafilter 2007, maybe I'll bring the grinder rig down.
ReplyDeleteJust drop me an e-mail and I'll send you the packet.
ReplyDeleteThanks, I took the obvious guess at your email address at JSI.
ReplyDeleteAndy, how would you say it compares to the Versalab grinder? I realize speed is no comparison, but shot quality?
ReplyDeleteJohn
> how would you say it compares to the Versalab grinder?
ReplyDeleteI haven't done that comparison yet, but when I do I will post it here.
How is the Kompack K10 WBC standing up? I have not found much in the way of detailed reviews anywhere.
ReplyDeleteRegarding the Compak K10: I have been using one for nine months in a lower volume bar environment. The build quality is positive (the exception is the hopper vulnerable to cracking due to a poorly designed lock-pin). Sturdy dosing lever is smooth and ergonomical.
ReplyDeleteGrind quality is definitely on par with the Robur and the distribution chamber delivers CLUMP-free, easily-settled grounds. LOW-speed RPM is gentle and precise.
The K10 easy to clean - I use microfiber towels and a little pick. Since we disassemble everyday, I can tell you that 10 minutes a day will keep one of the Espresso Variables lined-up. (Do you really like the rancid oils building up and touching your fresh coffee?)
Dollar for dollar, this is a Great value...even if it a Guest Blend Grinder.
I simply can not use a flat-burr grinder again. The conical design produces a superior extraction. A couple years ago I read a Tacy comment that has proven true - he "had" to choose between a best-n-class Machine or Grinder, He would take the grinder because it was MOST important. Concluding that a competent barista can make do with the Espresso Machine.
I am happy to read about Andy's discovery. This is what has most significantly enabled my quest for the ESPRESSO BULLSEYE. The Conical Grinder!
Sincerely--
Ron in Virginia
Brew Mountain
I have to concur with Ron on the Compak K10. It's an impressive grinder. We've had the K10 since April and it's been an impressive performer. Ditto on the lock pin that tends to shatter the very thick neck of the bean hopper.
ReplyDeleteIt's a great grinder for all the things that Ron mentioned. Some of the downsides are the rather unattractive look of the grinder when you remove the dosing chamber cover (like we do with Mazzers) and I don't know if I like the power switch so low on the chassis.
Some of the other advantages is the relative light weight of the unit. Move one of our Mazzer Majors and you're heaving it. Move the K10 and it seems light as a feather.
I've read about bits breaking on the Compak before :(
ReplyDeleteWondering how hard any oils or sticky grinds are to clean - my dream grinder can simply be vacumed?
Apart from that (minor) comcern, I am interested to learn if the K10 WBC can handle a morning rush without heat impacting on coffee; say grinding up to 3kgs an hour for 1-2 hours straight?
I've been working both and i am glad to say i think i made the right choice to go for the robur:
ReplyDeletethe compak makes more noise, seems slower and grinds less evenly. The grinder setting on the Robur also seems to be more accurate and easier to adjust.
Yeah the robur is heavy, but to me that means stable and reliable more than inconvinient.
@Andys.
ReplyDeleteWhat brand is this variable frequency drive Andy? And how much it costs?
And finally, what is the total cost of the Robur-this drive combo?
Theodore.
I love this article.
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