I really like the modular idea. Call me crazy, but I would like the opportunity to add on a bean storage device/hopper that would let me have single charge aliquots lined up ready to be dropped by a machine and maybe even a bean storage locker. This would add to the remote possibilities. I could roast from work with the better half watching for a fire or, having Comcast, an internet outage. Hahaha
For cost concerns and simplicty, a base manual roaster with manual controls and the ability to add on a computer control module that allows for complete variable control. You could log roasts and reproduce them similarly. These logs with enough variables might make for trends between beans to emerge, accounting for elevation, location, varietal, density, processing, moisture content, and all roasting site variables furthering the crazy database idea on a suggested ideal roast profile based on bean.
Perfect Roaster:
-Quality material, low price is great, but more important is that it doesn't keep costing money for repairs every month
-I like a 1lbs+ size roaster
-Gas powered for me because it is far more responsive
-Solid/perforated options, Joe's quick convert sounds awesome as well
-Adjustable drum speed
-Adjustable air flow
-Temp probes (bores at least) are a must for me and my OCD
-A view window or trier
-Chaff collector
-Simple base design (easy to repair and work on)
-Add on modules (remote access, etc...)
-I am not so worried about obscene bulk, but let's get the colors right
-Oversized cooling tray for quick temp drops
