beermachine!

Frankly, for the prices they are charging for that snazzy *looking*,

*little* gizmo (or less), you could buy the equipment to do 5+ gallon batches. Same goes for the mixes. $30 for a mix for that little thing? For that money you could buy the ingredients to produce 2x+ what that little thing makes.

I don't know of anyone else who makes mixes like that, so I couldn't say whether they might be interchangeable. You'd have to be sure that the ingredient amounts/batch sizes are similar, or do the conversions/adjustments. Otherwise, it could be a crapshoot as to how it turns out.

On Mon, 4 Sep 2006 12:10:34 -0700, Wanadoo wrote (in article ):

I've used one from Mr. Beer

and have made several successful (and DELICIOUS) batches. The kits are around 15 and I've also used other brands with it. With other brands, because they are formulated for 5 gallons, you need to cut the mix in half.

I have since upgraded to a regular brewing rig but still use the Mr. Beer for "specialty" brews.

Go to a homebrewing supply store and get a standard starter kit for $50-$60 and you will be making more beer and better beer for less money. The homebrew starter kits will grow with you should you choose to get deeper into the hobby where the beer machine will not. Its a $100+ dead end.

I've had others ask about this machine, when I proudly shared my beer, and couldn't figure out how to politely put down an item I wouldn't even try. So my option would be very bias'd. You struck the nail right on the head, and I'll have to remember it.

later,

tom @