Just like the title says. What do you think is better and why? I am looking to get an Ascaso grinder as I want to stay in the 300-400 range. Also, is the Baratza much better than ascaso grinders for the difference in price?

Both Ascaso and Baratza make several models

I meant the bararza ...virtuoso? The most expensive one.

As far as doser vs. doserless, neither is better or worse, just different. I would have no problem with either. I currently have a Mazzer Mini with a doser, and have no issues. If I were going to replace it today I would probably get a Baratza Vario which is, as you know, doserless. This is the model I suspect you are thinking of. I think most feel that the Vario is better than the Ascaso models in a similar price range, but I have no experience with them.

This Bella Barista Compact Grinder Review includes both the Vario and the Ascaso i1 and i2.

Go for the very best burr set you can afford. The rest is icing on the cake.

I'm looking to stay in the 300 range.

Used Mazzer Super Jolly / Rossi / Brasilia / ???

http://boston.craigslist.org/gbs/ele/2116841033.html

I think that if you want to stay below $300, you can't beat the PL53. It has a quality (if small and inexpensive) conical burr set and the ergonomics and build quality are pretty good for this price point. I believe the Ascaso i2 has the same burrs, but that Bella Barista review didn't make it sound like the ergonomics were as good. Although the reviewer also seemed biased against the i2 from the start, so I'm not sure how much faith to put in that judgement.

I've used the Vario as well, and it seems like it's a little bit better in terms of both grind and ergonomics than then PL53. If I were deciding between the two today, it would be a close call, but I'd probably end up going with the Vario. Although you really can't go wrong with either one.