Another question about MES

chipmanbbq · May 4, 2016

I've decided to finally pull the trigger on an electric Masterbuilt. My question is which version/model should I get? I've read other threads where you guys mention gen 1 or 2 or 1.5. Which one do you recommend and how do I tell which model number I need? This will be used for smoking summer sausage and snack sticks if that makes any difference.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

GaryHibbert · May 4, 2016

I have a MES 30 Gen 1. I love it!!! The 30 is just the right size for me (just Miss Linda and me most of the time).

I love the Gen 1 model. It's easy to tell the difference. The Gen 1 has the controls on top at the back. The Gen 2 has controls top front.

Someone else will be along to tell you all about the newer models.

Gary

cael · May 5, 2016

I got a MES 30 Digital with window. But its my first smoker and I wanted something kinda fool proof. So I thought digital would be good. (And it is). The only thing I had to learn is that the smoker temp doesn't really match. Got myself a Maverick therm to account for that, and its been smooth sailing ever since. I like being able to adjust from the house since I'm always busy doing other things.

The window is nice, but not essential. Half the time you can barely see as much as you need anyways. Too much humidity.

I haven't had any problems with it, other than noting the temperature is not that accurate. Steady results without too much guesswork.

GaryHibbert · May 5, 2016

Afternoon Cael

Just so you know, that temp inaccuracy affects everything--cook chamber temp, heat controls, and meat therm. Make sure you boil test everything. My meat temp probe was so far off that Masterbuilt replaced it immediately. Only problem was, the replacement probe was just as bad as the original--so I just turfed it. Like you I use a Maverick (733) and an instant read therm

If you use the chip tray, then the MES in NOT set-and-forget. You`ll have to keep adding chips real frequently. If you don`t already have one, you should look into an AMNPS of their smoke tube. I have an AMNPS, but the MES is too airtight and It won`t stay lit--I know that a lot of other members have no problems with it, but I do. So I`m adding the mailbox mod.

You`re gonna love your MES!!!

Gary

Bearcarver · May 5, 2016

chipmanbbq said:
I've decided to finally pull the trigger on an electric Masterbuilt. My question is which version/model should I get? I've read other threads where you guys mention gen 1 or 2 or 1.5. Which one do you recommend and how do I tell which model number I need? This will be used for smoking summer sausage and snack sticks if that makes any difference.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Here's a bunch of Info, and my findings:

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/235820/masterbuilt-smokers-bear-s-thoughts-findings

The main thing is to stay away from the Gen #2 Unit.

That's the one that when you open the door, you see a slanted drip plate above the heating element. It is higher on the right than the left & a little water pan hangs from the left end of that drip plate.

Both the Gen #1 and the Gen #2.5 have full width water pans & are Both Awesome Smokers.

Bear

worktogthr · May 5, 2016

Bearcarver is the MES expert! He's got you covered. I have 2 generation 1 MES30s and they are great. Bought them both used and they are great! New I need to find a 40. My smoker buying addiction is serious.

chipmanbbq · May 6, 2016

Thanks for all the help guys!

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Another question about MES

chipmanbbq

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GaryHibbert

Epic Pitmaster

cael

Smoke Blower

GaryHibbert

Epic Pitmaster

Bearcarver

Gone but not forgotten RIP

worktogthr

Master of the Pit

chipmanbbq

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