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boblam · Site Admin 註冊時間: 2007-05-04 文章: 294

Mahlkonig/Baratza Vario: 1 grinder from espresso to french press at one touch of a button!

I read with interest on this grinder which was launched in Europe under Mahlkonig Vario and in the US under Baratza Vario. In Asia, it will be Mahlkonig Vario

Strength:

1. SMALL: Only 5x7x14.5 inch WidthxDepthxHeight vs. Mazzer Mini 6.25x7.75x18.5 inch

2. FINE ADJUSTMENT: Over 200 steps adjustment (10 coarse and 20 fine adjustment, like TV tuner with fine tuning function). This allow the easy switch from french press to espresso

3. LESS GROUND RETENTION: Around 0.5 grams, according to coffeegeek vs. 10g for Compak K3
- Save coffee.
- No stale leftover bean in the grinder to get rid of next time which benefit home user more than commercial

4. CERAMIC BURR: should remain sharp for the ENTIRE LIFE of ownership for most home users, according to Mark Prince of Coffeegeek.com ***Addition on June 12, 09***

Weaknesses

1. AGENT IN HK?: I can't find one. The closest is in Shanghai. Imagine servicing this machine from Shanghai! Please help if anybody knows more about this

2. PF HOLDER: Some problem with portafilter (pf) holder, particularly with the naked pf, that does not seem to fit well. It is expected to be solved later.

PRICES: Mahlkonig Asia , based in Shanghai, indicated HK$4,500 to HK$5,000

REVIEW:
http://www.tristanstephenson.com/wordpress/2009/03/08/baratzamahlkonig-vario-grinder/
http://coffeegeek.com/proreviews/firstlook/baratzavario
http://www.home-barista.com/grinders/baratza-vario-grinder-first-look-t9604-80.html
http://www.home-barista.com/reviews/baratza-vario-grinder-second-look-t10195.html

AVAILABILITY: July 2009 (but I won't hold my breath)