I need help on which MES 30" Model to get

[wpeters]

Hello there.  I'm preparing to enter into the world of smoking after looking into it for awhile.  I think from what i've read the Masterbuilt electric smoker will fill my needs well.  I do have some questions as i'm thoroughly confused about the different models.

I've read some about the difference in the Gen 1 model and Gen 2 model.  Which is best/most dependable? 

Is the window model worth the extra money?

Which model comes with the the remote and meat probe?

Any other advice???

Thanks!

Wes

 

[chef jimmyj]

The Gen 1 is very good and has very few problems, displayed temp and actual temp may be off by 10+°F. The Gen 2 has had numerous issues from run away temps to fires. The window is worthless IMO. I smoke by temp and the amount of smoke coming out the vent. So I have no use for the window. The Gen1 unit that has a Remote and Probe is Model # 20070411. If you can find one, becoming rare, the Gen1 MES 40, model # 20070311, is a lot bigger and not that much more expensive. The most PITA issue with any MES is having to reload the chips every 30-40 minutes, especially on a 20 hour over night Butt smoke in the middle of Winter. Definitely invest in the AMNPS Pellet Smoke Generator from A-MAZE-N Products...http://www.amazenproducts.com/Default.asp  Just load it with pellets and get up to 10 hours of continuous thin blue smoke. The company owner, Todd Johnson, is a member and his customer service is second to none. Be sure to read the thread below for more info...JJ

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/133955/2012-mes-40-vs-old-model-mes-40