Do you have any tips for a brand new roaster? I've been reading up a little. I got a nice roaster I think. It has a burner underneath a round glass hopper which spins sort of like a rock turner. I can adjust the speed of the turn and the current of the burner. I was thinking slow and low until the first crack and then increase the heat and speed a little until the 2nd crack is good and done and finish about a good darkish medium roast. I have a thermometer I can put in the middle while roasting but have no reference to temperatures and stages. It also has an exhaust (puff drawer) with a power fan I can put on the end but I'm not sure on strategy there. I wouldn't think you'd want to cool off any during roasting. After roasted, I have a SS screen I can put it on and suck air through for a bit to rapidly cool the beans. I also heard let it pretty well sit out like a full day to let CO work it's way off but I'm unsure there too because I read oxygen can ruin the flavor rapidly. Anyways that is my thoughts so far. I'm ready to roast my fist batch right now. Care to critique what I've said here or inject any tips, please and thank you.

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DAMN! Dude, That’s a sick home roaster!

When I started roasting on a gas burner with a Whirly Pop Popcorn popper, I found more agitation / faster turning was better than low and slow. It helped remove the chaff and prevent an un even roast on the beans.

You do need the suction & airflow to remove the chaff from the roast, when roasting. Otherwise the chaff will burn and make your coffee smell and taste smoky.

Get a $15 infrared laser thermometer gun. They work surprisingly well for the $. Also just fun to have around the house.

The best coffee you will ever drink is the coffee you roasted yourself, count on it.

I look forward to hearing about our journey & reach out with any questions!

- Cheers