Doserless grinder buying advice

[Tim Kerber]

I am currently upgrading from a 12 year old junk espresso machine to a "prosumer" machine (Brewtus II, Andreja Premium or similar) and need a new grinder. I think I would like a doserless model since I don't normally make more than a few drinks at a time but I'm not sure I want to spend $700 on a Mazzer. Any suggestions?

[emperorma]

Although I am a neophyte, a very experienced friend in my area uses a Pasquini K2 Doserless to grind for a real nice Astra Gourmet machine. It does a very good job and, as I recall, he paid about $400 for it. He upgraded from a Rocky and says that due to increased adjustability, there is a discernable difference in grind quality in favor of the K2.

The grinder is not as "overbuilt" as my La Cimbali Jr. or as the Mazzer Minis I've seen. But for just a few cups a day, it would seem more than adequate.

[Balthazar_B]

Macap makes a doserless M4 if you don't mind a stepping adjustment ring. If memory serves, you may be able to get a Cunill in a doserless config, too.

[HB]

Another price performing doserless that is often mentioned is the Cunill Tranquilo. Tom's consumer review is typical of what you'll read: Good price ($229), great burrs, very loud, some problems with static. Personally I've become more doser/doserless agnostic over the years, with a slight preference for dosers because the added agitation reduces clumping. See the poll Doserless to doser and back again... the debate continues for the pros and cons.

[Tim Kerber]

Thanks for the input! I'm not sure yet which grinder I'll get but this helps to narrow the list. I've decided to get the Expobar Brewtus II machine and don't want to be too cheap for a good grinder. Thanks again.