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I have had my Gene Cafe for at least 3 years. I have been impressed with it from the beginning. The heating element is still the original. I do preheat barrel for 5 min. It took us some time before we decided on what coffees we like. Kenya for its brightness and Columbia for its body. That's 2 different roast profiles. We are still learning as we go, but yes, we think this roaster is well engineered and user friendly. Size and batch are ideal for a home roaster. I've roasted a lot outside but found that roasting inside gets a consistent ambient temp. I roast under the kitchen vent with a 3 inch diameter aluminum extension off the top of the chafe collector. It just takes time to know what to expect in the final taste test. That's what makes our hobby so much fun and an ongoing education.
Hope that answers a few questions.......... Ron and Shirley....... Concrete WA