Seeking recommendation for electric smoker (Los Angeles area)

[mgj2727]

Hi everyone - I'm new to the forum.  I've made the decision to start smoking and will need to go electric (unless someone happens to know one that can connect to natural gas).

I've been trying to find the best model for around $300-$400.  So far, the Masterbuilt 40 (with glass window, and from Amazon at about $299) is the top choice.  But I'm a little concerned on the negative reviews I've read and all the issues people have.  In addition, in reading all the positive reviews on Amazon, I have a hunch there's some fraud going on, as many of the reviews show a pattern (if you click on their "other" reviews, they seem to show a pattern of a bunch of reviews on one or two days and that's it).  Plus, very few certified buyers.

So, my question is, what electric smoker would your recommend?  

Thanks

 

[mgj2727]

One follow-up note.  I see there are more than 20+ within the electric smoker section (and 18 have viewed my post).

Can any of you please impart your wisdom and give recommendations on an electric smoker to purchase?

Please?

 

[geerock]

Consider the smokin it line of electrics. As for the masterbuilts, if you can find a generation 1 model then go for it. The gen 2 has issues. I know.....I've had both.

 

[mgj2727]

So Smokin It is a good line?  I'll research those right now.  Are they related to the Smokin Tex?  

 

[geerock]

Kinda like a smokin tex clone..... just less expensive. Nice unit, built tough.

 

[pureflusher]

I have a second gen MES and I love it

 

[mgj2727]

Consider the smokin it line of electrics. As for the masterbuilts, if you can find a generation 1 model then go for it. The gen 2 has issues. I know.....I've had both.

Haven't the issues of the MasterBuilt Gen 2 been fixed?

A company called Academy had the 1st gen on sale earlier today for $199, but I missed the boat.  So, I'm still looking :)

 

[geerock]

No they haven't been fixed. The last fix they had was (get this).... they siliconed the seams of the controllers because they thought moisture might be getting in. The siliconed one they sent me was off by more than the one that came with the unit. And after maybe 5 cooks it wouldn't get the the temp over 225. They are actively working on a new design with a different controller now but who knows when. Masterbuilt isn't saying cause they still have a bunch of these things they need to get rid of. And some of the customer service reps are still saying there are no known issues with the gen 2. I guess everyone knows but them.

 

[mgj2727]

I got on the boat!  I just happened to check Academy again and they had the Masterbuilt 40" generation 1 smoker on sale again for $199.  I figured at that price, I can't go wrong (well.. let's hope!).  All in, it's $229.  No tax.  

Now... to figure out accessories.... :)

 

[geerock]

That's a deal! That's a cooker that retailed for $ 450. Better design, better reliability than the gen 2. Dont miss that one.

 

[padronman]

I have the Smokin-It Model 2 and it is a FANTASTIC smoker.  Easy to use and puts out great food.  RUN AWAY from anything Master Built.  I had one and it was junk.......wish I had spent more the first time but live and learn. 

PadronMan

 

[newbiesmoker]

 
I got on the boat!  I just happened to check Academy again and they had the Masterbuilt 40" generation 1 smoker on sale again for $199.  I figured at that price, I can't go wrong (well.. let's hope!).  All in, it's $229.  No tax.  

Now... to figure out accessories.... :)

I guess now they have the 30 on sale for 199.00

 

[kumatae]

I'm in the OC area with a second gen MES 30 and like it a lot. There isn't a lot of parts involved so if something does go wrong, you can easily get replacement parts or repair it yourself. I came from WSM so I'm not going back. Enjoy smoking in the sunnt so cal weather! Love smoking jerky when its hot!

 

[little smokey]

I am in weather that goes hot, cold, and humid with a MES 30 2nd Gen and never had a problem, love it.