HotTop: Should I "Downgrade" to a "B"

[Quoddy]

I've developed a problem with the control panel in my HotTop "P". Michael has offered to send a replacement panel and I've thought that I might switch to a "B" panel. Since I bought the HT from Sweet Maria's there would be no refund of the $200 difference. I find that I don't use all the auto features on the "P" and would really like more controllability during the roast cycle, i.e., stretching the time between FC and SC. OK, Hot Top specialists, what do I do? Do I eat the $200 and go to the "B" or stay with the "P". Need some quick advice.

[Randy G.]

At this point it is merely a decision as to whether you want a "P" or a "B" because whatever your decision it won't cost you further out of pocket. Nor did you mention the age of the roaster.

Only you can decide whether the "B" is better suited to your needs. The B is superior for someone who wants fine control over their roasts. These are often used as sample roasters by small roasteries and growers or processors who cannot justify the $5000+ cost of a commercial sample roaster.

If it helps, I converted my P to a B and now run two Bs. I could switch back any time I want, but I personally never liked the somewhat convoluted programming nor the three minute constraints of the segments. I also did not like the lossy nature of the programming of the P. The P is good for someone who, once they find a roast they like, just wants to hit a button and get something close. The B is for someone who doesn't mind making adjustments during a roast when necessary to get exactly what they want.

[Quoddy]

Thanks, Randy... your thoughts are more or less confirming what I'll probably do. The HT is 4 months old and has had about 25 pounds of coffee roasted. I'm leaning toward going for the "B" since I constantly wish for more controllability toward the end of the roast. It's just the thought of watching the $200 fly away that's has initially held me back.

[networkcrasher]

How much is a B panel on it's own right? You can have the P panel replaced for free, and just purchase a B panel so you can have either option?

[Randy G.]

Thanks, Randy... your thoughts are more or less confirming what I'll probably do....

This thread motivated me-- I added a page on the Hottop USA website which specifically addresses this issue so that future buyers may have a better chance of making a decision as to which roaster best suits their needs. Give it a read and let me know if I hit the high points...

As another stated, you could get the "P" panel replaced and spend an additional $120 on the "B" panel and have both then you could sell the "P" on eBay or trade it to someone for something here or on CG if you like the "B"... Just another possibility.

As mentioned previously, I do work as an independent contractor for Hottop but do not benefit from sales.

[Quoddy]

Right now I believe that I'll go for purchasing a "B" and get the "P" panel replaced. If I decide in the future to switch back, I'll have the "P" available.

Update 07/13: Used the "B" on a few roasts and really like the control. I was able to easily stretch the time between FC and SC three times as long as before.