SJM posted above about the Mahlgut and it is phenomenal. I scored mine for 365$ off another HB'er. If money is an issue I would go manual and get a Pharos, Mahlgut, Felgrind, or Helor. The Mahlgut is my first grinder but I think it performs on par with a lot of 1000$+ grinders. I'd imagine Huky owners like to be hands-on and a manual would fit that bill.

https://www.hukyforum.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=1129.0;attach=3304;image

Doesn't that show two? So one extra?

Braden;

I'm a long time Behmor user who recently switched to the Huky and went through a similar investigation of the pro/con of Quest, Hottop and Huky.  I decided on the Huky because I think it gives the most potential for controlling the roast.  But that's a subjective statement since I never got to use the other roasters.

That said, you need to realize the Huky is likely more of a kit/DIY project than those roasters.  If you aren't willing to take the time to set up, customize and calibrate it you will not be happy.  I also strongly believe you should have a dedicated cart/space due to the design of the roaster; you won't want to be moving/taking it apart every roasting session.  I knew these limitations going in and I'm happy with my choice.

I suggest you spend a few hours on this forum doing a LOT of reading so you know what you're getting into before taking the plunge.  There is certainly something to be said for having a more out-of-the-box and self-contained roaster that doesn't need gas.

Steve

P.S.  I am a bit OCD, but for example see the list of things I did before doing any roasts at all with the Huky.  (Arguably some tasks will/may be needed with the Hottop/Quest too.)

1- Made a cap for the damperless T-pipe I ordered with the Huky.
2- Built a custom cart with chaff collector and an outdoor exhaust solution
3- Integrated a DC fan via an Arduino/Artisan for better airflow control, and then calibrated the airflow using an anemometer.
4- Replaced stock gas gauge on IR stove with lower pressure gauge for more control over gas flow.
5- Installed a variable pressure gas regulator because I didn't like the way the stock one connected to tanks here in the U.S.
6- Set-up and calibrated the thermocouples with the phidget
7- Worked through grounding/ground loop issues that surface with multiple electronics.
8- Read lots of books/sources on the craft of roasting/Artisan since the Huky won't guide you at all on creating successful initial roasts.

Ah, I replied to your other thread just now, but here goes.
The order looks good. The only thing that I have found out to be a good extra item is an extra Thermocouple at about $20.

The Phidget connects very easily, just get a case for it.

For the IR burner you do need a tank. I use the smallest propane tank available (about a US gallon size), but anything will do. Apart from that you may have to find a gas pressure regulator with just a bit more oomph than a standard BBQ regulator. 50mBar/20inH2O will do nicely. (It's the same idea as with this one at MillCityRoasters, but I guess there are cheaper ones available.)

Last, try to find some kind of voltage regulator for the exhaust fan. Again, a router controller will do nicely, while a light dimmer is a bit too small for the job.

Huky500T 1180$
Replace ET analog with digital
72rpm motor (what are the pros and cons of a higher rpm)
Solid Drum

IR Stove 99$
Extra MET 18$
Extra Tray 16$
Extra Fan 48$
Extra Bowl 49$
Extra Funnel 14$

I like rhawea's setup for the independent cooling. I will also get Phidget. Is it easy to connect probes to phidet? Is there anything I'm missing that will allow me to get that extra oomph? Also this could be a stupid question...is the IR Stove independent or does it connect to a tank? Final question: is there anything I need to make repairs or replacements along the way?


Thanks,

Braden