Variac Model

[threechrome]

What does everyone think about this model of Variac: PHC Enterprise SC-3M 300 VAC Max, 0-130v output. 3amp? Is there a newer version or better version to get? Trying to get it right the first time.

[SusanJoM]

My personal opinion is that any Variac is overkill.  I used mine for 2+ years.  Now it's a doorstop.
Save your money for beans.  GregR has recommended it from the get-go, and ....he was right.  Now I have one too.    It's so much cheaper and does what needs to be done.  Sorry I don't have a link handy.

I know, I know, I know.  We all said Variacs were important, but remember we were all beginners at the same time, and now some of us know better....

[threechrome]

Thank You! I just found the thread with GregR about  Variac vs dimmer. 

[brew]

My personal opinion is that any Variac is overkill.  I used mine for 2+ years.  Now it's a doorstop.
Save your money for beans.  GregR has recommended it from the get-go, and ....he was right.  Now I have one too.    It's so much cheaper and does what needs to be done.  Sorry I don't have a link handy.

I know, I know, I know.  We all said Variacs were important, but remember we were all beginners at the same time, and now some of us know better....

I still use a variac but is only because that is what I started out with.  I don't pay much attention to the power applied to the exhaust fan as much as I do the sound it generates.  Long story short, I don't think having fine grained control over the fan is that imperative to my roasts.