Looking at acquiring a Ambex YM-2 I would like to know what members think of Ambex as a roaster andI would love to chat with anyone who has one or has used one. Thanks
A few members here have Ambex products. I bought a 2008 YM2 brand new to start learning on.
So far I have no complaints. The roaster has exceeded my expectations with not only the durability but also with producing a very nice, controllable roast.
If you haven't used a production roaster before you will have a learning curve, as usual.
I've found the roaster to be very dependable, never as much as a hickup. I clean it once a month which takes about 1 hour. Basiclly the fan blades need cleaning, vacuum chaff and grease the bearing - all which are easy to get to.
Allthough it's a 5.5lb roaster, the max for me is 4-4.5lbs. Anything over 4.5 lbs and you pretty much have to max the flames just to keep a slow profile, which also can cause scorching of the coffee and airlow issues. The smallest amount I roast is 16oz. I've heard of people roasting 8oz on the YM2 so I know it's possible, but the bean probe wouldn't be accurate. So the real range is 1-4.5lbs / batch for me.
The finish on the YM2 is very attractive, it's built solid and performs well.
If I had to recommend to change something, I would make the bean cooler smaller in diameter but deeper. When I dump roasts 2.5lb and under the beans don't cover the entire bottom of the cooler while the stir arms are on. As they stir some of the holes are uncovered which prevent the build up of airflow needed to cool. The best way around this is to stir initially, but then turn the sweeper off and spread the beans so they cover the bottom of the cooler completely. This will get them cooled fast.
I would recommend Ambex to just about anyone. I may be upgrading in the near future, and while I'm looking at other roasters, a new Ambex 10kilo is one of them.
I should also note their support is also very good. They are quick to get back to you with questions and advice. Most of the parts for the roaster are available at Grainger too, which makes things nice should something go wrong.
If you have any specific questions just ask away. Like I said there are a few members here that use an Ambex.
Ben