It is actually possible to hear both cracks with the Imex. I only had to get used to the way the fan sounded. Still, it is harder than with a popper, and I would recommend buying a popper if you are a complete beginner. It is cheap and educational. If you live in Norway, you can pick up a princess popper at Glassmagasinet for about 200 kroner and modify it with an Illy can or the like. Search this blog for instructions.
Get the Imex for the automation. I love the chaff collection and automatic cooling process of the Imex! Looks like the timer will be useful as well. While roasting a couple of batches for my friend Audun up in Trondheim, I ended up at 6.5 and 6 minutes when doing espresso. Quite short roasting time, but not bad considering the temperature in my apartment was 28 degrees celsius. A popper would have done the same roast in like 3 minutes. I also appreciate the way the transparent lid makes it very easy to study the beans and judge roast color. 8/11/2004 09:34:00 AM
