Green Coffee Buying Club
Vendor Discussion Boards => old Traveling road shows => Topic started by: headchange4u on June 27, 2011, 12:07:14 PM
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The old thread was getting a little cluttered, so I thought I would keep the discussion thread separate.
Travel Order
1. headchange4u
2. milowebailey
3. Tex (2 week stay)
4. JasonG
5. Ray T
6. yakster
7. BoldJava
8. Sherman
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I've been using the Pharos every day since it arrived Last Tuesday. Here's may take:
Pros:
- Above all else the Pharos' grind quality is fantastic. It certainly rivals my Mazzer Mini and blows away any other hand grinder that I have tried. I know the main goal in bringing the Pharos to life was to produce a far superior hand grinder, and I believe they have achieved this goal with flying colors. Top notch throughout the grind range.
- The Pharos is built like a brick outhouse. No part of it feels dainty or flimsy.
- Stepless adjustments are nice.
- FAST grind for hand grinder.
- Cool looking
- Nice sound while grinding.
Cons:
- The coffee delivery mechanism (little funnel thing) is horrible. Hard to get grounds out at finer grinds and messy getting grounds out period.
- Adding beans to grind chamber is awkward.
- Somewhat awkward to hold on to while grinding.
- Needs to be able to hold more coffee in the grind chamber.
I been using the Pharos as my primary grinder since it arrived last Tuesday. Right out of the box, the Pharos is an impressive piece of eye candy. I used it a work for 3 days and everyone was interested in checking it out. Besides the almost standard, "What the hell is that thing?" response most people said it looked like a bomb. Good luck getting this thing to go through with your carry-on luggage.
The grinder is very well put together and feels like it would be here years to come. It's probably something you could pass down from father to son for many generations. The general shape and build of the grinder does make it a little unstable and awkward when holding the grinder in my hand, especially when you first start grinding. I have found that it's best to set the grinder down on its rubber feet while grinding.
As you could have guessed with 68mm burrs in the grinder chews through coffee like nobody's business. Turning the crank is pretty easy, but with finer grinds my arm go tired trying to grind a full grind chamber full of beans. With a coarse grind it's done in no time. The grind quality is outstanding. Very consistent throughout the grind range. I didn't pull any shots using the Pharos but I think espresso fanatics are going to really love this grinder. The adjustment mechanism, although not set up to be adjusted quickly, allows for very minute changes in the grind and I think these settings could be easily repeatable. One has to be careful to securely jam the adjustment knob against the grind arm/crank. If not the grinder will slip a bit and fail to engage the drive shaft as well as changing the grind adjustment.
It also does great with coarser grinds, but I think this is where the Pharos could stand to hold a bit more beans in the grind hopper. A larger press pot, like the 34 oz Nissan insulated press I normally use would require grinding 2+ chamber of beans. This also hold true for the just about any brew method making enough coffee for 2 or more people. Multiple batches wouldn't be such a big deal if loading the hopper was a little more user friendly. With the standard setup you have to add coffee little by little, all the while corralling beans that bounce off the metal top plate of the Pharos and go skittering across the counter. I found it's almost easier to take of the grind arm and add coffee using the funnel off my Aeropress.
With all its glowing attributes the Pharos does have one major Achilles Heal IMHO; getting ground coffee out of the grinder sucks. Removing the rubber plug at the bottom can be hard to do without some amount spillage. At finer settings the coffee seems to want to stick inside the funnel and requires some amount of beating and banging to get out. Even coarser grinds need a bit of violence to empty the grind chamber. All the beating and banging can send coffee everywhere. I ideally the grinder should be placed on top of a sturdy container and then tapped to get the grounds out. Still even then its hard to tell if all the coffee came out unless you are weighing it. Several times I thought the grind chamber was empty only to dump out stash of ground coffee while trying to reinsert the rubber plug.
On its way to Larry tomorrow .....
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Jason, did you measure how many grams it takes to fill the chamber? Does it still come with the hammer to get the grounds out?
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Jason, did you measure how many grams it takes to fill the chamber? Does it still come with the hammer to get the grounds out?
It includes a small metal rod, maybe 3" long with a rubber cap, and a long metal rod. One is to be used as a hammer and the other one as a breaker bar to losen the adjustment mechanism. Neither are sufficient for use as hammering devices in my opinion. The metal disks that compose the main body of the grinder aren't comfortable to bang with your hand. A rubber mallet would work great I think.
I didn't weigh how much coffee the hopper holds, but I think it's around 24 grams.
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I thought I saw Doug using a rubber mallet on one of the videos, something like a doctor would use on your knee to test reflexes. ?
The small capacity is probably due to the Pharos being designed as an espresso grinder.
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I packed the hopper full to the top and it held 28 grams.
I thought I saw Doug using a rubber mallet on one of the videos, something like a doctor would use on your knee to test reflexes. ?
The small capacity is probably due to the Pharos being designed as an espresso grinder.
Yes he did use one of the rubber "knee jerk reflex" mallets in one of the vids. That would have been a nice addition to the kit. Although not strictly stated on the OE site, I would have to agree that the Pharos is geared more for the espresso users.
I really wish I could have tried the turkish grind, but I didn't want to taint the grinder with cardamom. ;)
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I packed the hopper full to the top and it held 28 grams.
I thought I saw Doug using a rubber mallet on one of the videos, something like a doctor would use on your knee to test reflexes. ?
The small capacity is probably due to the Pharos being designed as an espresso grinder.
Yes he did use one of the rubber "knee jerk reflex" mallets in one of the vids. That would have been a nice addition to the kit. Although not strictly stated on the OE site, I would have to agree that the Pharos is geared more for the espresso users.
I really wish I could have tried the turkish grind, but I didn't want to taint the grinder with cardamom. ;)
We'll see hos it does with espresso, but I'll have to see how difficult it is to get grounds out of the chamber. I can hardly wait to take my turn!
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We'll see hos it does with espresso, but I'll have to see how difficult it is to get grounds out of the chamber. I can hardly wait to take my turn!
I've found the best way is to set the grinder on top of a heavy plastic container and slam the whole assembly down on the counter a couple of times.
Here's some pics of the Aeropress funnel on top of the grinder:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v704/headchange4u/c0759edc.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v704/headchange4u/5f874c02.jpg)
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We'll see hos it does with espresso, but I'll have to see how difficult it is to get grounds out of the chamber. I can hardly wait to take my turn!
I've found the best way is to set the grinder on top of a heavy plastic container and slam the whole assembly down on the counter a couple of times.
Here's some pics of the Aeropress funnel on top of the grinder:
:o
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Maybe I should rephrase that: firmly tap on the counter (not slam). :D
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snipped
That Aeropress funnel seems to be the answer to every filling need.
And if you don't have an Aeropress, one of these puppies will probably work.
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That a canning funnel?
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That a canning funnel?
Yes and it cost me ~a buck at the grocery store.
edited: Maybe someone could cut one down so the handle clears, and use some clear silicone to semi-permanently mount it?
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I used a canning funnel for the WDT before I adopted the "dropped basket" technique. I'm cheap like that! :icon_thumleft:
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Just noticed this appeared:
[youtube]OE Pharos Hand Grinder Tech Bulletin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yPeAMBMlUc#ws)[/youtube]
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This one?
OE Pharos Hand Grinder Tech Bulletin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yPeAMBMlUc#ws)
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Here's a drive attachment kit:
Parts List: 1/2" coupling nut, socket cap 1/2"-13x3/4", 1/2" flat washer, 3/8" hex bit socket. Parts available at HD or Lowes.
All stainless steel available at: http://www.stainlesstown.com/index.php (http://www.stainlesstown.com/index.php)
My 1/2 portable drill motor is crap, so the test was not very successful. ::)
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This one? ...
Classic Doug, but the stick-on OE sticker keeps getting hidden by the beard.
That plastic grounds funnel could get ugly once the furnace goes on and someone isn't running a humidifier in concert.
BJava
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I wonder if a plastic grounds catcher, Baratza Maestro comes to mind, might work better?
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Yea, not sure why the link says invalid now? I previewed and it was OK.
Pretty nice to see the different considerations paid to this fine machine.
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The Pharos arrived today.... my that's a big one.
Looks very industrial. I'm looking forward to see how it grinds.
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The Pharos arrived today.... my that's a big one.
Looks very industrial. I'm looking forward to see how it grinds.
Great gag gift for the nudist colony residents! ;D
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The Pharos arrived today.... my that's a big one.
Looks very industrial. I'm looking forward to see how it grinds.
Great gag gift for the nudist colony residents! ;D
I can just picture Larry showing up at one of those with the Pharos.
:o
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I've been tinkering with the Pharos for the last two days. Here is my 1st impression:
It has the cool factor, but has many short comings. Hard to hold, hard to empty, hard to put the beans in, hard to adjust (I had to use the tools to tighten the handle because if I didn't it would tighten the grind when I started grinding)... It should have marking on the top like a clock so you could have a gauge of how many degrees you've adjusted the grind. It should come with a bag or wooden box to keep the tools and loose part.
As for the grind, it does a good job. Very consistent size grind and not many turns to grind as compared to other hand grinders. If you have $275 to blow, get one..... me nope thumbs down. I have a few more days with it and will use it some more, but after using it I prefer all 3 of my other hand grinders to this one from a practical day to day grinder. Note: I don't use any of my other hand grinders for espresso.... This can grind espresso well.
Pros.
1) Very good grind (Edit) can grind very fine for espresso.
2) Takes way fewer turns to grind the same amount of coffee. Compared to the Hario, the grindripper and German wooden box grinders
3) Cool factor (in a Tim Allen way)l. It's more like a tool than a grinder.
Edit 4) grind knob fits the hand nicely
Cons;
1) holds only ~20 grams of beans. Not enough for a Chemex Kone pourover
2) Adjustment of the burrs is not precisely repeatable, You can get close, but not exact
3) Adjustment requires a tool to free and tighten the handle. PITA
4) I comes with a zip-lock bag of extra parts/tools. It should have a storage box for the price (wooden box with storage.
5) Difficult to hold onto for espresso grinding. There should be some sort of handle on the grinder
6) Difficult to empty, makes a mess every time. And if emptying in a glass container you could easily break the glass with it due to it's size.
7) too expensive for what you get. For $275 it should be better designed
Left to right
Hario, German Trosser, Grindripper, and Pharos
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Thanks for the review. Helpful. There is a gang of supporters at H-B. No one has come in with many con's.
B|Java
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snipped
Edit 4) grind knob fits the hand nicely
When I saw the Pharos in a picture for the first time I thought it needed a better handle - something like the Hurst shifter T-handle.
(http://www.challengertalk.com/forums/attachments/f18/30844d1303420045-mopar-short-throw-shifter-w-hurst-t-handle-shifter.jpg)
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snip
Cons;
4) I comes with a zip-lock bag of extra parts/tools. It should have a storage box for the price (wooden box with storage.
snip
I take full blame for the ziplock baggie. The tools came packed in corner of the box wrapped in tissue paper. I missed both of them when unpacking the grinder. Only after watching the video again did I realize that I didn't have all the parts present and accounted for, then went back to dig them out of the box. I figured I better bag up all the bits and bobs or they might get lost in the shuffle. Don't worry though; I cleaned most of the pot out of the baggie before using it for the Pharos stuff.
There is a gang of supporters at H-B. No one has come in with many con's.
B|Java
I was reading through the big Pharos thread on HB last night when I noticed the same thing. Hardly anything bad to say about the grinder. Not that it's a bad grinder by any stretch of the imagination, but after getting to know the grinder a bit i would have expected some mention of the unit's less user friendly aspects.
BTW, we have grinder #23
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It's probably ...
Part of it, also, can be wanting to support a retailer who may deserve the business or the chance to launch a business.
+1.
B|Java
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I don't know Orphan.. or the mad scientist in the video or even the photographer (probably his wife). I'm all about supporting local, USA made things if they are worthy. I was intrigued enough to jump in and try it. This grinder, IMO, is not a ready for prime time gadget. A prototype yes.
I was just reporting it as I experienced it. For $275 I can get a great used espresso grinder that will perform better.... and granted I'll need electricity but I'd need a shirpa to haul the Pharos for me. ;D
and to Jason's comment about the extra parts packed in tissue paper.... the baggie was a better choice.. and I still think, for the price, that Orphan should have included a cloth bag, wooden box or something to keep those part in.
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I try to avoid cross posting, so I won't. But the discussion on H-B about motorizing the Pharos could be a great Saturday Night Live skit. Let's see -- buy a hand grinder and motorize it! How novel. Guys are modding it with drills, mixers, belts, pulleys, you name it. Heavens, I would just buy a Super Jolly and call it a day.
The nature of Geekdom...
B|Java
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I'm trying to figure out a way to add a doser, a motor and a step adjustment to it... did I forget anything?
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I'm trying to figure out a way to add a doser, a motor and a step adjustment to it... did I forget anything?
Front end loader.
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Oh yeh... it needs a hopper that can hold more than 29 beans....
Let me see what I can do!!
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I try to avoid cross posting, so I won't. But the discussion on H-B about motorizing the Pharos could be a great Saturday Night Live skit. Let's see -- buy a hand grinder and motorize it! How novel. Guys are modding it with drills, mixers, belts, pulleys, you name it. Heavens, I would just buy a Super Jolly and call it a day.
The nature of Geekdom...
B|Java
Geeks are notorious for being cheap, and a SJ sells new for ~$800.
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I try to avoid cross posting, so I won't. But the discussion on H-B about motorizing the Pharos could be a great Saturday Night Live skit. Let's see -- buy a hand grinder and motorize it! How novel. Guys are modding it with drills, mixers, belts, pulleys, you name it. Heavens, I would just buy a Super Jolly and call it a day.
The nature of Geekdom...
B|Java
Geeks are notorious for being cheap, and a SJ sells new for ~$800.
Hmm ... so what mod have you got planned for the Pharos Robert?
;D
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I try to avoid cross posting, so I won't. But the discussion on H-B about motorizing the Pharos could be a great Saturday Night Live skit. Let's see -- buy a hand grinder and motorize it! How novel. Guys are modding it with drills, mixers, belts, pulleys, you name it. Heavens, I would just buy a Super Jolly and call it a day.
The nature of Geekdom...
B|Java
Geeks are notorious for being cheap, and a SJ sells new for ~$800.
Hmm ... so what mod have you got planned for the Pharos Robert?
;D
None. Milo is turning the tables on me and won't send me the thing until I return his roaster. ;)
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...
I'm waiting for the price of 3D printers to come down so I can just print out my next grinder.
I am waiting for my turn with the Pharos to feed it the remaining pieces of the HP printer.
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I try to avoid cross posting, so I won't. But the discussion on H-B about motorizing the Pharos could be a great Saturday Night Live skit. Let's see -- buy a hand grinder and motorize it! How novel. Guys are modding it with drills, mixers, belts, pulleys, you name it. Heavens, I would just buy a Super Jolly and call it a day.
The nature of Geekdom...
B|Java
Geeks are notorious for being cheap, and a SJ sells new for ~$800.
Hmm ... so what mod have you got planned for the Pharos Robert?
;D
None. Milo is turning the tables on me and won't send me the thing until I return his roaster. ;)
:o
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...
I'm waiting for the price of 3D printers to come down so I can just print out my next grinder.
I am waiting for my turn with the Pharos to feed it the remaining pieces of the HP printer.
Would that be an HP-MilkWaulkiatto?
???
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I think I've come to the conclusion that the Pharos is the most over-under designed grinder on the market.
It does a great grind, but has too many idiosyncrasies to make it practical.
I brought it to work today so a few of my geeky engineer coffee drinkers could see/use it. Their first impression was:
"you can only make one cup of coffee at a time with that thing?"
"That's pretty cool"
"It's lighter than it looks"
"how do you hold on to it"
"how do you clean it out"
As for Tex's turn.... he can wait. He kept my sonofresco for a couple years.... ;D
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I think I've come to the conclusion that the Pharos is the most over-under designed grinder on the market.
It does a great grind, but has too many idiosyncrasies to make it practical.
I brought it to work today so a few of my geeky engineer coffee drinkers could see/use it. Their first impression was:
"you can only make one cup of coffee at a time with that thing?"
"That's pretty cool"
"It's lighter than it looks"
"how do you hold on to it"
"how do you clean it out"
As for Tex's turn.... he can wait. He kept my sonofresco for a couple years.... ;D
Let's say you could spend $250 on a Pharos or $795 for a K-10, which would be the better buy for an everyday grinder?
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If you could afford either, the K10 would be a no-brainer; a hopper to hold plenty of beans, easy adjustment for grind coarseness, extremely fast grinding...
Some people like the 'connectness' of a hand grinder, and wouldn't want anything else. Some people can't abide a doser. Some people don't want a hulking shop-sized grinder on their counter. So you'll have a few in the Pharos camp for those reasons.
But again, if the money's there, the K10 wins hands down. I use mine for press pot in the morning and espresso in the afternoon. Going from 39 on the grinding scale to 14 and back is a piece of cake, and I perceive it's a nightmare on the Pharos. My guess is that the faithful Pharos followers on HB use it primarily for espresso and leave it set for that.
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. Some people don't want a hulking shop-sized grinder on their counter.
The Pharos takes the same footprint as my commercial Santos Espresso grinder... ~ 1/3 the height, but still a monster, size wise.
A couple other things I noticed about the Pharos. The "tools" that come with it to loosen the jam-nut are made out of untreated steel... already rusting just due to humidity. They should be stainless or plated.
Here are some improvements I'd suggest for the Pharos
1) Make the hopper larger (taller) so it holds up to 50 grams of coffee (enough for a Chemex sized pourover)
2) By making it taller the posts would work as a handle... but one or all three could be made larger diameter so you could use them a a handle to hold the grinder while grinding.
3) countersink the top, inner screws so that the ring moves all the way into the hopper holes... would make it easier to get all the beans in
4) put some sort of indexing decal on the top so you could more easily adjust the grind with more precision.
5) make the tools out of stainless
6) make the exit funnel and stopper a larger diameter, so the coffee can get out easier
7) make the grind handle 1"- 2" longer.... leverage for an easier grind.
8 ) Include a storage box for the grinder and tools (could be an option)
Off to JasonG in the next day or so...
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If you could afford either, the K10 would be a no-brainer; a hopper to hold plenty of beans, easy adjustment for grind coarseness, extremely fast grinding...
Some people like the 'connectness' of a hand grinder, and wouldn't want anything else. Some people can't abide a doser. Some people don't want a hulking shop-sized grinder on their counter. So you'll have a few in the Pharos camp for those reasons.
But again, if the money's there, the K10 wins hands down. I use mine for press pot in the morning and espresso in the afternoon. Going from 39 on the grinding scale to 14 and back is a piece of cake, and I perceive it's a nightmare on the Pharos. My guess is that the faithful Pharos followers on HB use it primarily for espresso and leave it set for that.
I guess what I'm asking is whether I should recommend the Pharos as an adequate grinder for the noobs? I usually recommend the Cunill Tranquilo for noobs because of the grind quality & price. Since the price for either the Pharos or Tranquilo is ~$250, that leaves the grind quality & convenience as determining factors.
I've used a Tranquilo and found the grind quality equal to the Super Jolly, MD50, & RR45. I passed on my turn with the Pharos because of shoulder problems or I'd have checked the particle size it produced against tests I'd done of 63mm flat burr grinders. I'd expect the Pharos to produce better results than the SJ, MD50, & RR45 I tested.
I'll probably be ordering a K-10 if the price deal holds for a while. Since it has 68mm conical burrs like the Pharos, I can test it against my previous results and draw a conclusion as to the Pharos' vs Tranquilo question.
I'm hoping to see more Pharos reviews about its ease of use - especially dialing it in for the first time and making minute changes to accommodate different beans. For instance, I just switched from a SO Brazil bean to a SO Bali, and had to lower the burrs 4 notches on the adjustment wheel. ???
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Let's say you could spend $250 on a Pharos or $795 for a K-10, which would be the better buy for an everyday grinder?
IMO K-10
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I've been thinking a lot about the design it seems to me that if the grinder used the same top plate, which is the slotted area where the beans are poured into the grind chamber, for the bottom of the grinder the ground coffee would just fall straight out the bottom. You could almost grind directly into a portafilter or Aeopress. It still might be messy, but I think that would be a lot easier (and neater IMHO) than the funnel/rubber plug setup.
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agree w/ most everything said about it so far.
Just want to add that filling the hopper w/ beans is easy for me. I don't use the ring, I lift/fold back
the rubber "lid" and expose 1 of the 2 slots and pour the weighed beans from the basket. Just as
easy as pouring them into the throat of the SJ.
for me, only pulling 2 shots a day, I think my SJ has lost its place on the counter.
Also, as difficult as it already is to empty the funnel, I don't think it'd be easier w/ a flat
plate and 2 slots. I body slam it sideway (ok lightly) on a thick mouse pad and empty, repeat several times until nothing else comes out.
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Whoever is next in line, please send me your home address offline. After reviewing UTubes on this, suggest we have a rubber hammer to accompany it.
B|Java
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JasonG should have it by now. I shipped it out over a week ago.
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JasonG should have it by now. I shipped it out over a week ago.
Tex, if you are next, PM me your home address.
B|Java
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JasonG should have it by now. I shipped it out over a week ago.
Tex, if you are next, PM me your home address.
B|Java
I took my name off the distro list.
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...
I took my name off the distro list.
Didn't know that. I will get Ray's address.
B|Java
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8 oz rubber hammer headed to Ray's. We can keep it traveling with the Pharos.
B|KnockedUp
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Is the hammer so you can smash a finger so you forget how sore your arm is from grinding.
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8 oz rubber hammer headed to Ray's. We can keep it traveling with the Pharos.
B|KnockedUp
Too bad it's not a silver hammer; they work so much better than rubber mallets!
Maxwell's Silver Hammer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIMGgBLOwfg#)
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I took my name off the distro list.
You seemed so excited to try out the grinder. What changed your mind?
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I took my name off the distro list.
You seemed so excited to try out the grinder. What changed your mind?
Trying to squeeze a few more miles out of the arthritic shoulder before the doc has to put in a hunk of stainless steel. I still would've liked to win it! >:(
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Photos on Google from a Pharos owner: different grind levels. http://tinyurl.com/3vkfhwf Note the press pot, largest grind. Very inconsistent. Seems to be a dedicated turkish/espresso grinder?
B|Java
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Hammer arrived. Haven't heard from who ever has the grinder yet so playing doctor with the hammer till then.
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Hammer arrived. Haven't heard from who ever has the grinder yet so playing doctor with the hammer till then.
Knew you had it in you.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OQ8xQKdupUI/TJwMhR5faoI/AAAAAAAAAVo/DVpTqnyOh6k/s1600/hackenbush.gif)
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Not sure where the machine is but here is a YouTube of Doug building a Pharos, focusing on burr alignment. Complete with dog barking -- gotta love it.
Pharos Tech Bulletin 4. Burr Alignment Procedure (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBlR6UL4scI#ws)
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Packing up the Pharos tonight to send on. Too bad I've been busy planning a wedding such that I haven't been too present around these parts.
OTOH, I did have a nice time demoing the Pharos for making drip and have to say that the grind was very consistent at the finer sized end of the drip range. Soon to be Mrs. JasonG even had a favorable comment one morning, "honey, that thing is really quiet and has a nice sound to it compared to that old thing." 8) You see, I have an actual old hand grinder from back in my great-great-granddaddy's time and I do pull it out and use it here and there. Also, apparently, the Barratza is a bit jarring in the early AM sound-wise.
Things I miss: Can't hold enough to do a 10 cupper in the Technivorm; Doesn't have a little drawer dohicky underneith to catch grounds out of the funnel.
The latter seems like it would be easy to create and add-on. To raise the capacity....hmmm...only way I see is to lengthen the clear bean holder part directly above the burr and/or possibly making it slightly conical.
Thing that can't be addressed: too massive to take backpacking.
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... Soon to be Mrs. JasonG even had a favorable comment one morning...
Whoa, congrats!
Thing that can't be addressed: too massive to take backpacking.
Pack mule.
B|Java
(http://rocketfuelcoffee.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/1149152702_6420.jpg)
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Wasn't it 'pack goat' you were wanting to post?
(http://www.highuintapackgoats.com/Legal_Stuff.jpg)
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I like the idea of a pack goat :)
Thanks for the well wishes; looking forward to it! Actually, one thing I'm also tardy on from my part in the planning is needing to find someone who'll do an espresso bar at the reception... ;D
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Wasn't it 'pack goat' you were wanting to post?
(http://oldtimeyjokes.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/monkey-goat.gif?w=500&h=375)
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I am all atwitter. My K10 Pro was not the $798 steal, unfortunately. Still, this will be an interesting comparison - 68mm conical showdown! 300RPM black R2D2 vs. stripped-down hand grinder. Everything that I've read so far touts it as an equal for espresso, but then again, HB is more strongly focused on espresso than anything else. Perhaps this accounts for the lack of comments addressing pourover, capacity, etc. Grinding one shot at a time seems SOP.
From the vids it certainly doesn't appear to be the most user-friendly of grinders, but I'm hoping that the overall grind quality will prove to be sufficient.
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Pharos made it safe and sound yesterday . Now to grind a little pound it a little with the hammer that B/Java sent me.
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Ground first pot loads (two for a 10 cupper). Grinds very easy, even and fairly fast, looks cool, the B/hammer helps getting the grounds out. So far the cool factor is the main event. To bad it doesn't hold more beans and easier to load and extract thegrounds . Great idea and workmanship but a lot of negatives also as previously posted. Will play around more with it later. So far not to impressed but it is cool ( B/grins)
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Love the feedback, keep it coming.
I was wondering what carrier and packing you are using to ship this. I guess I'm thinking ahead to when I'll have my turn and have to give it up again.
Let me know the best way you've found to ship this.
FedEx to business address is the cheapest by quite a bit. Home rates: USPS and FedEx are often dead heats. I have had good success with FedEx. UPS is much higher - some prefer Mr. Brown.
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Pharos should be in Yakster's hands tomorrow along with the B/Hammer.
If it only held more beans and easier to load the grind is great.
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Yakster,
Saw your post on HB.
a few days with it in stock form is a sure way to frustration, you will hate it if you need to make adjustments especially for espresso.
I use it for espresso only and once I did the jam nuts mod which allows precise incremental adjustments, it's displaced my Super Jolly on the counter.
$1 for 2 jam nuts will give it a fighting chance.
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Sure, only if you're buying the waffles :-)
Sorry but I was only on my annual summer visits to SJ/SF. I'm in Socal.
Picked up the jam nuts at my local hw store, McFadden-Dale, admittedly they specialize in all sorts of
fasteners, sorta like a mini McMaster-Carr.
You might want to try ACE, they usually have more fasteners than HD/Lowes, I've been saved
by ACE many times when a busted fastener kept the car from running again.
This morning I started with a new jar of beans and took me one adjustment, 1/12th of a turn (1/2 of an edge),
to dial it in.
Just a thought... I'm sure you'll be able to find the standard sized 1/2-13 nut but perhaps not the half-heights.
Perhaps adding just one jam nut between the adjustment nut and the crank might be better than none at all???
At least you're less likely to round out both the pin as well as the holes in the adj nut. I now use an allen wrench
and eventho it's not correctly sized, at least it's not tapered like the pin and works much better. If I get all fancy,
I'd tap the holes to accept the adj pin from the Super Jolly or just use a long bolt.
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sorry, I know nothing about the beans that came w/ that grinder. I'm not on the traveling show as
I'd purchased my own.
I have no use for the bean ring. Lifting the rubber flap to expose one or the 2 slots, I can pour
in the pre-measured beans (in a basket) as easily as pouring them down the throat of a Super Jolly.
Not sure which "jam nut" you're trying to source. You don't need one w/ holes in it, just
a regular nut and use an open ended wrench or crescent to tighten.
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I use 2 jam nuts; 1 above the adjustment nut, 1 below the crank handle.
If you can't find half-height jam nuts, I'm guessing that adding 1 jam nut might be better
than none at all?
how long will you have the grinder? If you can't find them, I can go get more and send them to you or
the next person in line. Unfor the store is closed on weekends so earliest I can get them out would be
Monday and then another few days for USPS to deliver...
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Chris the coffee was SM El Salvador Manzano Process Experiment http://www.sweetmarias.com/coffee.archive.new.php?country=El+Salvador about a (http://www.sweetmarias.com/coffee.archive.new.php?country=El+Salvador about a) about a 1/4 down the page,the one sent was the Wet process. I was getting a nice apple flavor I did a couple of pour overs with it ground with the Pharos .
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5 jamnuts, now you need to buy 2 more Pharoses to make use of them.
are they full heights or half height? SS?
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if you can fit 2 of them on... just looked up Olander, it looks like my local HW store.
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just posted this on HB's thread:
been having a heck of a time w/ the handle slipping while grinding
Panama Elida Natural roasted to the first few outliers of 2nd Crack (admittedly
darker than intended). The effort required to grind is really high for this
weakling (me, not grinder), the jam nut below the crank handle slips about half of the time so far.
The adjustment nut/jam nut combo seems to be holding up (but w/out the handle being
a reference point, can't truly know for sure).
have yet to try beans as hard as this Panama.
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Your very welcome Chris I enjoyed this one also. Fun to try other peoples roasts. I roasted it on the trusty old Hottop 15-20 seconds after first crack ended. I also liked the pulped the best of the 3
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Whoa, this bad boy is headed my way soon. Will have to gather 'da boys and put it to the test against the Macap. Stay tuned for a throw-down. We'll see if we can coax Sherman north of the 42'30 for the gathering and handoff.
B|Java
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fwiw, I use the OE dosing funnel and dump directly to the basket/funnel sitting on top
of a .1 gram scale. Usually I get a pretty nice heap and w/out doing anything more,
I tamp and go.
I've noticed that my .1g scale, while being very repeatable to the .1g, it isn't very
accurate when small amount is gradually added. I always lift off and put back on
at the end to verify true weight. It can be as much as .5g off.
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You don't have to convince me... you have to convince my wife! :o
PM sent re: timing. We'll be seeing each other soon, I think.
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Whoa, this bad boy is headed my way soon. Will have to gather 'da boys and put it to the test against the Macap. Stay tuned for a throw-down. We'll see if we can coax Sherman north of the 42'30 for the gathering and handoff.
B|Java
I'd be more curious to see it matched against a Compak K10?
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I'd be more curious to see it matched against a Compak K10?
In the offing.
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I'd be more curious to see it matched against a Compak K10?
In the offing.
Attaboy! That will be a good mano-a-mano matchup of conical burr grinders; one cheap and the other not so cheap.
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Attaboy! That will be a good mano-a-mano matchup of conical burr grinders; one cheap and the other not so cheap.
Patience. It will get rolled out.. It will be like vintage Roller Derby.
(http://www.rollerderbyfoundation.org/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/GammonOConnell.jpg)
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...
Wish I could hand-deliver the grinder and get in on the fun in Lake Cheddar.
You already are a honorary Lake Cheddarite. Plenty of pics for vicarious presence pending.
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The Pharos has been boxed and taken for shipment.
It should arrive in Lake Cheddar on the ninth if the river don't rise.
Godspeed.
We have out-of-towners coming, just to gawk at it.
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...
We have out-of-towners coming, just to gawk at it.
Lake Cheddar has become a closet-haven for Illinoisey folk.
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...
We have out-of-towners coming, just to gawk at it.
Lake Cheddar has become a closet-haven for Illinoisey folk.
Sherman's lucky that he came highly recommended. We let him pass through the Cheddar Curtain.
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Short, Reader's Digest version?
Once dialed in, I found the shot from the Compak 10 and the Pharos a dead-heat. More details from me tomorrow. Jeff has some good pics. Sherman is a delight and it was nice to have him up in these parts.
Others can chime in. I have some pics as well.
B|Java
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I guess what I'm asking is whether I should recommend the Pharos as an adequate grinder for the noobs? ...
No.
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There are some new parts available from OE that might make adjusting the Pharos a bit easier.
http://www.orphanespresso.com/Pharos-Top-Adjustment-Upgrade-Kit_p_4245.html (http://www.orphanespresso.com/Pharos-Top-Adjustment-Upgrade-Kit_p_4245.html)
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There are some new parts available from OE that might make adjusting the Pharos a bit easier.
[url]http://www.orphanespresso.com/Pharos-Top-Adjustment-Upgrade-Kit_p_4245.html[/url] ([url]http://www.orphanespresso.com/Pharos-Top-Adjustment-Upgrade-Kit_p_4245.html[/url])
Yakster contributed a couple of lock nuts to the cause. I will put picks up tomorrow night.
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Peter and Sherman were the hands-on boys on the Pharos. They were less intimidated by the hardware stacked on top of the grinder than I was. We spent a good 3 hours with it, the Compak 10, the Spaz, and the Cremina. For what it is worth, here are some initial impressions. They mirror what has already been reported in the thread. (Note: Jeff's pics to follow this weekend).
Very impressive out of the box. I love the hands-on appeal to it. That fleeting feeling soon ebbed for me as I watched Peter attempt to dial it in (the Compak 10 admittedly was waiting in the wings for some serious competition). Back (too large) and forth (too small), back and forth. I got impatient and I wasn't even driving.
Con:
^ No immediate points of reference; no markings for adjustment. Best you can do is mentally imagine a clocks' hands and use the handle as a reference point.
^ The back and forth of "too fine, too large" seems to rule this out as anything more than a "set it and forget it" espresso grinder. (Maybe I don't understand the lock nut arrangement. Long thread on HB. I will see if there are less futzy ways of arranging them.)
^ At the espresso level, getting the grounds out of the grounds reservoir is an effort in endurance. A full 60-second of whacking on it with a hammer is needed. Would drive me crazy.
^ Just too high of a putz factor.
^ Difficult to load the beans. There is no pouring into it. You have to schumtz the beans into the openings. (Peter remembered at the last minute that an Aeropress part fills the bill, or in this case, the grinder).
^ Small capacity. 25 grams <?> on a good day.
^ Difficult to keep stable as the beans are being ground. Needs some work.
Pro:
^ The grind size begins to become consistent at pourover grind and points finer.
^ Great Turkish grind in it.
Conclusion?
^ Once dialed in, we concluded that the grind was indiscernible in the shot from the Compak 10. I wonder if the conical burrs aren't Compaks?
^ I am looking forward to playing with it this next week but the high putz factor isn't my way of grinding. Pass. If I win it, look for it to come back onto the board re-sale. At that point, I will attempt to convince you what a great grinder it is with a couple of home-grown mods that you can certainly do <grins>.
Fun evening with Peter, Jeff, and Sherman. Ended with a Lake Cheddar fish fry. Great coffee, friends, and food. Life is awfully good.
B|Java, looking forward to Jeff's pics
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I've never seen my name written so many times in one post. Kind of creepy. I got these done a lot sooner than I thought. I will post them here, but post them later on Picasa where all pictures of all events from the last year and a half are.
Sherman talks about our perception of tastes and how we relate this to each other.
Peter chimes in.
Dave (Bold|Java) listens intently.
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Sherman is extremely enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
Peter gets working on the grinding.
Dave takes a picture with his great new Canon PowerShot. Expect better latte pour pictures.
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Adjusting, beans flying, close up of top.
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Pharos, then Compak FWIW. 1:1 macro cropped a little. This may be worthless because there's no way to know if the grind is the same level on each grinder.
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LaSpaziale (sp?) pour as it comes together. (This may have been from two pours. I can't remember.)
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The Lever with beans in the background and in action.
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Adjusting that thing drove Peter nuts.
Talking after making 4-6 comparative shots.
That's all. If this is too much for the server, I can just put them on Picasa after a few days and leave a link here.
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Funny how your lens only makes me and B| look pudgy and not Sherman.
Other than that, those are some mighty fine photos Jeff. My favorite is the Cremina pull looking down into the cup and the reflection of the drip tray on the the cup (I'll do you a favor and not call it a demitasse).
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Funny how your lens only makes me and B| look pudgy and not Sherman...
Speak for yourself.
B|Slim
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OK, ladies and gentleman. Play ball.
Tonite's starting pitcher, #23...
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from Athens, Ohio, Fred Pharos...
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Pharos has a few curves to throw at the opponents...
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Catching behind the plate is an old veteran, Schneidlly Schmidt, managing the Pharos as no other catcher can.
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Scheindly goes out to the mound, looks over his shoulder at the ump, and slips Pharos a secret pitch, the knuckler.
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First batter for the opponents, B|Hammer, known to whack it around a bit. The team would be up the creek without it.
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Wait, the ump has seen the knuckler. The ump bends over, leans near the catcher's ear and asks Ol' Schneidly if he knows anything about Pharos's knuckler?
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Funny how your lens only makes me and B| look pudgy and not Sherman.
Other than that, those are some mighty fine photos Jeff. My favorite is the Cremina pull looking down into the cup and the reflection of the drip tray on the the cup (I'll do you a favor and not call it a demitasse).
And it makes the others look like they've actually got hair. ;D
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Now, as we enter the 7th inning stretch, a fan has run out on the field, hoping to catch a close-up. It is the fan phenom from Frankfurt, Ût'er Shutter.
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Scheindly goes out to the mound, looks over his shoulder at the ump, and slips Pharos a secret pitch, the knuckler.
Boy, if you made that out of oak it'd be a mean knuckle duster! :o
(http://www.greencoffeebuyingclub.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=11933.0;attach=10930;image)
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With the game going into extra innings, relief catching is sought from the bullpen as Ol' Scheindley's knees have given out. He is soaking them in the locker room.
The manager signals to the bullpen -- It is Shure Sherman, the only left-handed catcher since Jack Clements. Sherman sprints onto the setting-sun drenched summer field...
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Bottom of the 11th, Lake Cheddar wins. The table stands as a metaphor for how the entire game went.
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Great pictures and write-up. I really wish I could have been there with you.
Somehow, I sense you would fit right in.
I just thought I might chime in with what worked for me with the Pharos.
...
Thanks, I will open your list on the laptop some evening this week on the dining room table with Pharos when I need to forget work for a spell.
B|Java
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I just thought I might chime in with what worked for me with the Pharos.
...
I am convinced you held off on that list until today, simply to get me consternating yesterday. >:(
B|Java; I need an 8x11 glossy of that pic you took of me leaning on my elbow.
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You guys are clearly having too much fun :P and, yes, I wish I could join the party....
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I came into this event with no research, no preconceived ideas and hopefully no bias.
Unfortunately, there was also no instruction manual, so attacking the Pharos was a bit of a monkeys-pounding-on-obelisk scenario. Eventually, we were able to dial in a solid espresso grind. In retrospect, I should have done SOME research to learn how to operate this beast.
The good:
- Grind Quality: In our shortened round of testing, we were able to get very similar tasting shots out of Peter's S1. To go much further, I suspect that we would need two groups and a blind cupping setup, but that seems to be out of the scope of this thread, so we can leave it alone for now.
- Build Quality: parroting what others have said, this thing is built like a tank.
The bad:
- Grind adjustment: I'm not sure where to lay fault, and will certainly accept my fair share for not reading up, but this thing is definitely not the most intuitive to calibrate, nor is it easy to adjust unless you have the appropriate tools (e.g. pliers)
- Exit Path: I don't know if this was OEM, but someone drilled a hole and added a plug. We ended up tapping it with a plastic headed mallet to try and coax out the grounds, and it took longer than was comfortable (upwards of a minute).
I'll have to wait until B|Creminiac ships it down and I can spend some time with it going head to head against my K10.
Thanks to BoldJava, Peter and Jeffo for not running me out of town on a rail. Next time, come south to Civilization and we'll do it up.
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This is worth a link from H-B for those of you who have played with the Pharos: http://www.home-barista.com/grinders/owner-experience-with-pharos-manual-coffee-grinder-by-orphan-espresso-t17714-440.html#p222088 (http://www.home-barista.com/grinders/owner-experience-with-pharos-manual-coffee-grinder-by-orphan-espresso-t17714-440.html#p222088)
The gent has modded it by not using the spacers or springs. Great pics. Look at the parts he has left over.
Doug reflects on mods right after the OP -- as Sherman said, give OE credit for the "open source" approach they have taken to this product. I find the mods fascinating but as a LTMIT ("less than mechanically inclined type"), pronounced "lit-mit," this grinder frustrates the dickens out of me. If it were mine, I would look for a simplex form of adjustment mechanism (haven't discovered it) and leave it.
Sherman, need your address. I will ship it on to you on Monday.
B|Java
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Quick review of the Pharos before it crosses into Lincoln-Land with Sherman for his group review. My opinion has gone up since our Friday marathon, but more on that later.
Bean Opening. (Photo 1)
Round plastic ring is used to corral beans and slide them into gaps (photo 2)
Silicone cap keeps beans from popcorning. (photo 3)
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Difficult ergonomics. Unable to grind well in seated position. Do best in standing up and using weight/strength to bear down directly onto the Pharos.
1. Backed off both lock nuts and used the retaining ring for adjustment. Needle points to it in photo 4.
2. Can turn retaining ring -- black, below two lock nuts (see photo 5) with fingers to adjust to a KONE grind (between espresso and pourover grind),
3. Excellent, fluffy grind at KONE grind level. (photo 6) Consistency in size of grind. Few fines.
4. Very easy to release this particular grind from unit. Pulled the plug and wrapped it with my palm twice.
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Just a bit shy of a vacpot grind, medium fine, extremely uniform and fluffy. See photo. 17.6g in => 17.3 grams out with two raps on the side with edge of hand. Used the handle as my anchor point for mentally imagining clock. For KONE grind to vacpot, I moved the retaining ring about half hour on the hour hand. Finger manipulation only -- no pliers, no locking it down. Set it and forgot it. Did not move during grinding.
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Regular pourover grind was accomplished with about 40 minute movement imagined on hour hand of the retaining ring. All these adjustments are being made by finger. The grind adjustment ring stays in place during the grind without bringing the lock nuts down and into contact with the retaining ring. I think we were trying to make it more difficult than it is during our marathon a week ago.
The grind at the pourover size begins to introduce more fines. 17.9g in, 17.8g out.
Compared it to the pourover grind on the Macap (58mm blades). 17.8 in, 17.8 out.
The Pharos is fluffier and there is more uniformity of size with the Pharos grind.
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Espresso grind. 16.1g in, 15.3 out. Nicaragua COE, Las Flores, full city.
Three hammers later, two drops on the table yields a total of 16.0g.
32 second ristretto, 25g. I am comparing this to a shot I had this morning. The shot from the Pharos/Cremina is more structured, more layered, more nuanced than the Macap/Cremina. The Macap's was smoother, creamier, less distinct. Both shots were very good. Just different.
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32 second ristretto, 25g. I am comparing this to a shot I had this morning. The shot from the Pharos/Cremina is more structured, more layered, more nuanced than the Macap/Cremina. The Macaps was smoother, creamier, less distinct. Both shots were very good. Just different.
That's pretty much what I noticed when I went from the Macap M4 to my Compak K10, nuance and detail was easier to discover, and figure it is the conical burrs vs. flat.
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...
That's pretty much what I noticed when I went from the Macap M4 to my Compak K10, nuance and detail was easier to discover, and figure it is the conical burrs vs. flat.
I had to experience it to believe it. "I belieeeeeeeeeeeeeve..."
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Reflection of my two-hour efforts with the Pharos.
Simple directions:
- It is easier than it appears. Don't make it hard. Ignore all the 43 pages of the H-B thread. Back the lock nuts way off, giving yourself manipulation room on the handle stem for the retaining ring so you don't have to disturb the lock nuts. (Doug refers to the retaining ring as a "thumb nut" if you want to order a second one here. It is their approach rather than use additional lock nuts: http://www.orphanespresso.com/Pharos-Top-Adjustment-Upgrade-Kit_p_4245.html (http://www.orphanespresso.com/Pharos-Top-Adjustment-Upgrade-Kit_p_4245.html)
- Use that amount of handle stem thread to move the retaining ring up and down with your fingers. Don't bother with pliers. The retaining ring will stay put during the grind.
- Imagine an hour hand on a clock and use that as your mental reference point.
- Very small adjustments make a visible/tactile difference in the grind size.
Observations: Superb, fluffy grind. Remarkable.
- The coarser the grind, the more the fines appear.
- Very hands on. Too much so.
- Impossible to grind in a seated position.
- Difficult to grind, even standing up.
- Best effort comes from pressing down and holding with thumb on top and fingers on the reservoir.
Tentative Conclusions:
- Superb grind. Equivalent to the $1300 motorized, 68mm grinds.
- For me, too difficult to manipulate
- Needs some kind of platform to secure grinder for better grinding
- Emptying grinder at espresso grind too difficult - needs work
- Needs compass/hourglass reference points
Would I buy one? No
For whom might the Pharos make sense? An experienced geek, seeking a superb grind, who finds futzing as a needle-mover on the happy meter.
On to Chicago.
Goodbye Mr. Pharos. May your life outlast us all.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z3TZEK2SKtc/Tj0KeSo_wBI/AAAAAAAAAqI/OmYGN6j7jw4/s1600/Lowongan+Kerja+Pharos.jpg)
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Burr Alignment 201 for Uber Geeks. He even uses a bicycle torque wrench with "newton <?> meters." New tech bulletin that came out over night.
OE Pharos Tech Bulletin 5 - Burr Alignment - Back to Basics (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdpJXsO1sl4#ws)
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Delivery received. Now the learning begins...
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It starts with unlearning everything you've read about the Pharos and just getting your hands on it.
This is one grinder that you have to make your own way with.
All I know is, I was out-smarted by a hand grinder. :-[
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Maybe it should have been dubbed the Sphinx.
Would that make the person using it a sphinxter?
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Maybe it should have been dubbed the Sphinx.
Would that make the person using it a sphinxter?
It would totally depend on which muscles were used to grind.
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I thought yesterday that a gent had a brilliant mod for the grinder. Opened it up for easier access to the grinds instead of the funnel. Wrong, or as he says, "FAIL!" Static. Great pics.
http://www.home-barista.com/grinders/owner-experience-with-pharos-manual-coffee-grinder-by-orphan-espresso-t17714-470.html#p222894 (http://www.home-barista.com/grinders/owner-experience-with-pharos-manual-coffee-grinder-by-orphan-espresso-t17714-470.html#p222894)
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One day in, and yakster is dead-on. After thinking about the machinations that we went through, I was skeptical about this beast.
After dis- and re-assembling it twice and watching the latest OE tech bulletin on burr alignment, I saw the light. The notion of using a floating upper burr and relying on tight tolerances for the upper and lower bearings as a means of burr alignment amused me at first, because I didn't understand the underlying principles. After teardown and rebuild, it made a heck of a lot of sense. From an engineering standpoint, it's a pretty exciting thing.
I just pulled some shots from Peter's Guatemala CODECH, using the Pharos and my Cremina. It's as vivid as the K10, and now I'm wishing that I had done this while with Peter and BoldJava. I'm warming up to it pretty fast, and can see how it has garnered such positive attention.
The one sticking point is grinds extraction. I understand that it's not feasible given the current build, but it would be so nice to have a better method of getting the grinds out. At FP/drip setting, there is no issue because the grounds are coarse enough to eliminate static as an issue. At espresso setting, I have to forcefully thump it on the countertop a few times to get everything out.
More to come this week...
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this has helped me to monitor any turn-down issues (both grind adjustment as well as crank handle)
or make small grind adjustments, less than 1/12 of a turn.
(http://)
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There is a much better way to get the grounds out of the Pharos and it's called Version 1. It was discontinued very quickly, but can single dose to a portafilter or anything else without any extra steps.
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just curious but the latest FAIL mod on HB showed that there's significant static all around
the axle (looking at the pics again, grind clinging all over the bottom plate as well).
I'm not convinced V1 is better/worse than V2...
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Thanks to ecc (who has the patience of a saint), I spent this past week testing the Pharos against a Mazzer Robur, Nuova Simonelli Mythos prototype, Compak K10 Pro and Macap M7.
All in all, I'm extremely impressed by the engineering and function of the Pharos. Its grind quality equals that of the Robur & K10. The Mythos and M7, being big flats, produce slightly different profiles, but no better or worse. If I held grind quality as the ONLY requirement, then the Pharos would get my wholehearted recommendation as the best value of ANY grinder, bar none.
Unfortunately, there are other considerations. Ergonomics and grind retention are sore points in my book. I realize that OE supports the modding community and encourages any hacks/additions/tweaks, and am sure that someone out there is upping the ante by adding their own spin to it. That's all good and fine, but it's not a user-friendly out of the box experience. I'll be packing it up this week and sending it on to its home in Indy.
Testing this thing has been a good time, and I'm grateful to have had a part in this version of the travelling road show.
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The #23 Pharos has arrived in Indy, home after a nice trip around the GCBC.
Thanks everybody, I had a lot of fun reading about this grinder, and I'm sure I will enjoy working it into my espresso routine.
Review to follow in a few days, but after using it a few times already, I think you guys have it nailed.
Great quality grinder, tricky to adjust, bad grind retention, and completely, absolutely cool.
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OE is offering a free rubber grinding pad to all those holders of the Pharos. Get current if you are the one on the block with the Pharos.
http://www.home-barista.com/marketplace/oe-pharos-counter-pad-grinder-stabilizer-now-available-t19518.html (http://www.home-barista.com/marketplace/oe-pharos-counter-pad-grinder-stabilizer-now-available-t19518.html)
B|Java
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Some very pretty mod pictures on HB today: http://www.home-barista.com/grinders/owner-experience-with-pharos-manual-coffee-grinder-by-orphan-espresso-t17714-660.html#p240225 (http://www.home-barista.com/grinders/owner-experience-with-pharos-manual-coffee-grinder-by-orphan-espresso-t17714-660.html#p240225)
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Well, I couldn't resist. I sold my cimbali grinder and bought a Pharos. I enjoy the hand grinding at work so this seemed like a good fit. Plus I can single dose!
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congrats, that's what, 3 on gcbc?
can't wait to hear your reviews...
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Hope it works out for you. BTW single dose is about all ya got ;D
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Hope it works out for you. BTW single dose is about all ya got ;D
I know:)
I change beans every 1/2 lb so keeping 1/8-1/4 in the hopper got annoying especially when the grinder pop corns like mad. I bought it knowing most found the operation clunky and annoying but I am willing to try it knowing that the next logical step was a Compak k10 or macap conical.
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Got mine today.
I think I bruised my hand removing grounds:( Works like a champ and it is very easy to chock a machine with it. I still have to dial it in a bit before I can get a decent shot.
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Adjustment takes some getting used to. Small turns can make a big difference.
I'm growing tired of spanking as well. Wish they had given grounds removal a bit more thought, but you can't beat the taste/$.
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Got mine today.
I think I bruised my hand removing grounds:( Works like a champ and it is very easy to chock a machine with it. I still have to dial it in a bit before I can get a decent shot.
Better get a B/Hammer
(http://)
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vberch, (Vlad) was here two Sunday's ago with his Super Jolly to do an A/B comparison w/ my K10. That's another story, but he's thinking about the Pharos. His idea was to mod the bottom somehow so he could put a PF basket right inside of it, under the chute. I thought that was brilliant, at least if you're grinding for espresso.
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Adjustment takes some getting used to. Small turns can make a big difference.
I'm growing tired of spanking as well. Wish they had given grounds removal a bit more thought, but you can't beat the taste/$.
Yeah, got pretty close this morning and I am quite impressed with the flavor nuances it adds.
I will be printing a sticker or two this weekend to help be with dialing it in.
(https://photos-1.dropbox.com/i/xl/AipiARiN3VCkKIWsd5K1nUMmVYmnTFo46X0lIj-2Daw/8840196/1333195200/e3b8640/)
It seems some guys have been experimenting with silicone spray with great success. I plan on ordering some of that and the roller bearings from Mcmaster Carr. They are said to make a 25% difference in turning force.
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Adjustment takes some getting used to. Small turns can make a big difference.
I'm growing tired of spanking as well. Wish they had given grounds removal a bit more thought, but you can't beat the taste/$.
Yeah, got pretty close this morning and I am quite impressed with the flavor nuances it adds.
I will be printing a sticker or two this weekend to help be with dialing it in.
(https://photos-1.dropbox.com/i/xl/AipiARiN3VCkKIWsd5K1nUMmVYmnTFo46X0lIj-2Daw/8840196/1333195200/e3b8640/)
It seems some guys have been experimenting with silicone spray with great success. I plan on ordering some of that and the roller bearings from Mcmaster Carr. They are said to make a 25% difference in turning force.
A pharos owner reporting here.. :D Just found the goodness here..haha
As compared to the 1st gen Pharos, I believe the current iteration of Pharos is much more useable. Not that PITA to use anymore. The double adjustment nut, funnel, stabilizing pad, and scale(DIY) make the most dramatic improvement to the Pharos. With the scale(or sticker), the adjustment is actually very repeatable and easily fine-tuned. I can go to French Press and back to exact same setting no problem, unlike Baratza Vario from my experience.
In regards to retrieving grind, I think weather/bean makes a huge difference. Currently, I can retrieve my grind super easily with a few shakes. Could be also because the burrs are broken in. (Maybe?) If you you a plastic cup or container, you can mouth-to-mouth :P seal it under the bottom plate with the hole, and let the whole Pharos heavily thump on the cup. This will dislodge most coffee without spanking. The sillicone spray sounds like a good solution too if it works as suggested.
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Sam,
You now have the Pharos dialed in and you are selling your Cremina I hear? How could you possibly think about splitting up this perfect couple?
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Bendo,
Yes, I am selling the Cremina. In fact, the Pharos would go up for sale soon too. :( I am in the middle of quitting the hobby, due to life situation. The Cremina went up for sale first because the Pharos could still be delegated as drip grinder even if I don't have the Cremina. On the bright side, Pharos made a pretty good drip too the last time I used it. ;D
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If the mail carriers do their job, I will be grinding with Pharos #375 soon. One came up on Coffeegeek so I pulled the trigger.
http://www.coffeegeek.com/forums/members/buysell/575087 (http://www.coffeegeek.com/forums/members/buysell/575087)
When it gets here I can do some in depth grinder analysis with the K30, Pharos, Preciso, Mazzer Mini burr set grinder, and some hand mills.
I should just make some coffee and be happy but I have this curiosity itch I enjoy scratching so what are ya gonna do? :)
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If you decide to keep it, I bought one extra set of the bearings that make it easier to turn and maintain the settings. I can ship it to you for cost of the part and postage. Because I bought multiple this would cost a bit less.
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If you decide to keep it, I bought one extra set of the bearings that make it easier to turn and maintain the settings. I can ship it to you for cost of the part and postage. Because I bought multiple this would cost a bit less.
I feel a bit ignorant about your offer (I trust you though - please do not misunderstand this post) - I guess it will make more sense to me when I see the grinder up close. I would be happy to pay the cost plus postage if it is something that improves this grinder's performance - thank you very much for offering this to me. :)
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If you decide to keep it, I bought one extra set of the bearings that make it easier to turn and maintain the settings. I can ship it to you for cost of the part and postage. Because I bought multiple this would cost a bit less.
I feel a bit ignorant about your offer (I trust you though - please do not misunderstand this post) - I guess it will make more sense to me when I see the grinder up close. I would be happy to pay the cost plus postage if it is something that improves this grinder's performance - thank you very much for offering this to me. :)
You will see once you start using it.
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is that the needle bearing from McMaster Carr? If you have more than 1 extra pls lmk.
I thought about trying it but haven't made any orders w/ MC lately...
couple nites ago, friend brought his brand new Pharos to me because he couldn't get
it to work after a few days. Sure enough it gushed at 1/2 turn from zero. Reset it again,
gushed again. Tightened the grind about 1/8 of a turn and it was spot on after several
side by side shots w/ my Pharos. I've played w/ 4 so far and the other 3 are all spot on
at 1/2 turn, no real changes if it's +/- 1/8 of a turn. But this one is much more sensitive
to small adjustments. It also grinds super easily I'm guessing the new burrs (mine almost 1 yr)
and the grease between the thumbnut and bearing (mine has no grease).
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I bought 3, and 2 are spoken for and the last was offered to EricBNC. If he doesn't want it then it is yours.
Stickers would be the price of materials plus shipping. I need to print a 28" wide line anyhow when running my plotter.
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Pharos #375 came in today - I like the way it grinds but not the way it empties - I will figure out a technique though - only 4 shots in so far with the Brazil Cup of Excellence Lot#: 9 Antônio Fortes Bustamante - Fazenda ParaÃso that Larry distributed last March. These beans are the same ones I heat gun/metal bowl roasted back on the 5th - all dark chocolate in that 4th (and 1st dialed in) shot - very tasty.
I can't wait to try this grinder with some fruity, bright beans though - this is where the burr set is supposed to shine compared to large flat burr grind stones like the 64mm set on my K30 (which never fails to deliver chocolate notes too if they are in the bean to be found).
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congrats Eric.
try bumping it against the grind pad a few times before emptying. When grinding the Bali
or Flores beans, I dump onto a sheet of paper instead. Those beans produce more static than
anything else I've tried. I assume you have an OE dosing funnel?
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Finished the sticker today. This should help with the adjustments.
(https://photos-3.dropbox.com/si/xl/1GwwzdFAha5b13EXxGDEne1FLtjA0AY0DA9gCnOYwko/8840196/1337889600/4939a76/pharossricker.jpg)
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Nice work - that looks very slick!
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Thanks Jeremy - this roller bearing mod does help make grinding easier - especially when grinding lighter roast hard beans! :)
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Will's Ultra Modded Pharos
http://www.home-barista.com/grinders/pharos-removing-grounds-t20868-170.html (http://www.home-barista.com/grinders/pharos-removing-grounds-t20868-170.html)
I'm testing one with all the mod's for a few days now. My Pharos was version 1 and single dosed from the grinder to the portafilter so this was a big change. First night there were grounds all over the kitchen, next day had that issue under control. WAF is a factor in her kitchen with white tile on the floor.
Normally I don't check grounds retention, only weight the beans going in but...... THERE IS ZERO GROUNDS RETENTION !!!!!!!!!! and it's really clean afterwards.
After grinding with Will's new mod, I tip the grinder over the stainless bowl and dust off the bracket and adjacent surfaces. There were a few stray grounds on the table, and hand swept them into the bowl. Then spoon in the ground coffee and tap in the remainder; clean stainless bowl afterwards. A secondary container after the stainless bowl is not necessary. The process took maybe a minute longer than before and a bit messy, no big deal. I've added two brushes, one small grinder brush and a 3" table brush.
The grinder slips on and off the bowl very easily, but the set-up seems more semi-permanent than the stock version which would be better for traveling. The bowl attached to the grinder with O-rings for a friction fit and for me that would be for transportation only. I'm not using the O-rings and the bowl is a loose fit inside the grinder.
With this mod a motor can be attached and that advancement will eventually be explored. It it's successful then there would be a "ghetto versalab". Kudos to Will for bringing out so many neat Pharos mods!
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Today Bendo came to pickup some coffee from my latest distribution, and brought his Pharos along... What a revelation - I had the best espresso at my home. Now I know what are you guys talking about.
I always thought that RO water was my problem, but now I see that my grinder is the problem. Vario is not capable to deliver perfect espresso.
Pharos would be a bit too much for daily use, especially for my wife.
Obviously I have to start saving for Compak K-10.
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Pharos back in stock. Doug had been awaiting an order of 100 burr sets.
http://www.orphanespresso.com/OE-PHAROS-Hand-Coffee-Grinder_p_3977.html (http://www.orphanespresso.com/OE-PHAROS-Hand-Coffee-Grinder_p_3977.html)
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Doug makes the last Pharos, #1000.
Pharos 1000 x264 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqEMnct_6LI#ws)
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Epic!
Thanks for posting this...
If I were to travel to Idaho, I would buy a case of beer, get Doug and Barb in the backyard, and tease out his mechanical mind and let the discussion go wherever.
The kid's bandaid that Barb fished out of the cabinet for Doug is classic.
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Doug makes the last Pharos, #1000.
What do you mean the last Pharos? He still plans to make the doesn't he?
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What do you mean the last Pharos? He still plans to make the doesn't he?
It's not very clear.
A month or so ago he announced on CoffeeGeek he was done after he did the 85 that he had parts for.
More recently at H-B he said he would build them on an "as time allows" basis.
Susan
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Well I snagged a new one from the OE website at 5:30 am this morning. I do not typically use a hand grinder but I admire the ingenuity and design of the Pharos and feel it has earned a well deserved place in the history of espresso. I also feel I am now adequately prepared for when the zombie apocalypse occurs and electrical power is no longer available. :)
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I was going to, but they are sold out.... :(
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I was going to, but they are sold out.... :(
Apparently as each Pharos gets made, OE will put it up for sale, so "Sold Out" isn't permanent. If you want a Pharos you have to stay tuned and hope to catch one as it is made available. It would also make sense to monitor the H-B site, since that seems to be OE's preferred site for making announcements, etc.
On the other hand, The Byrds - You Don't Miss Your Water (1968) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2AnszaTyy8#)
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Pharos #1003 is in the house!