Mazzer Super Jolly vs. Le'Lit PL53 (vs. "Conti")

[aindfan]

Does anyone here have experience with both of these grinders? I'm looking for some direct comparisons (beyond what's on paper). I imagine a SJ would mean I no longer need the WDT. Also, how compatible is the SJ doser with the tiny Ponte Vecchio 45mm baskets?

Thanks for the advice. I'm considering selling the PL53 and getting a used SJ at a great price (if possible - and it seems like it is right now).

EDIT: There's another ad I replied to but the grinder owner didn't know too much about it. He said that he has a Conti grinder, about 4 years old, that he used *very* lightly in his tea shop. He says it is black, has a metal doser lever, and he bought it for $1000 new. Any idea what this grinder could be (and if it's any good)?

Thanks again for the help!

[shadowfax]

Just in case no one replies, here's my advice (as a Super Jolly owner, but never having owned a PL53): The SJ is an exceptional grinder, and while you may not notice a huge improvement in the cup, I would expect to have an easier time making consistently good espresso. If you can get one on the cheap, and you have the space, you would be silly not to upgrade. Even if you are on the fence, I think it's worth the trouble and money to buy it no matter what anybody says--You can compare the grinder against your PL53, and sell the one you like the least--or keep it for a spare if you don't mind that investment. A lightweight travel grinder can be a real boon if you ever take a road trip.

[aindfan]

If you can get one on the cheap, and you have the space, you would be silly not to upgrade. Even if you are on the fence, I think it's worth the trouble and money to buy it no matter what anybody says--You can compare the grinder against your PL53, and sell the one you like the least--or keep it for a spare if you don't mind that investment. A lightweight travel grinder can be a real boon if you ever take a road trip.

Thanks for the reassuring reply. This Mazzer plan came from the idea that I might sell a friend the Le'Lit - I was able to get him on the road to obsessing over coffee.

[quar]

In my experience, the SJ can be prone to clumping. You can, however, overcome this with good thwacking of the doser. I used to use WDT when I first got my bottomless PF, but I've managed to finesse my dosing technique so I don't need it anymore. Don't get me wrong, I love my SJ, it's a heck of a grinder. I wish I'd bought one years before I did.

Mike

[hbuchtel]

Also, how compatible is the SJ doser with the tiny Ponte Vecchio 45mm baskets?

I can answer this part, Andy_S's 'schnozz' makes dosing into the even-tinier Caravel basket super easy.

Regards, Henry

[IMAWriter]

I will confirm Henry's comment. The "schnoz" rules!