My first brew with this one went well. At least the brew did, I think. We'll see what the beer turns out like. It was a Punk IPA clone that seems to have been just sitting around for months.
Got it up to mash temp on full power (what it thought was mash temp) set it at 1700w to maintain. Got a lil vid of the mash in process, nothin else though. Found the boil to be a bit bothersome, had to get it up to 2200w to keep a roll going and a temp correction as it seemed to think what I'd barely call a simmer was a boil. Surpassed the initial gravity, was meant to be 1053. Ended up with 1064. Not complaining.
Cleaning was easy, just filled a bit and got the crap out (tipped it down sink) circulated a lil bit of cleaning solution, then a bit more water. The pump made it a piece of psss.
Got to say I don't think I could be happier with this one, it didn't break and with the fear I had from the Vevor experience, once it actually got boiling the apprehensions were gone.
No messing around with burners or gas. Still two vessels with a sparge heater, but definitely reduces the footprint.
In fact the only issue I can say I've had has been the EU plug but that's what happens when you order something from the EU via a co.uk website I guess. That was also easily resolvable through Amazon though.
Mr.Gadget's Solutions (Grounded) European EU Schuko to UK 3 Pin Converter Plug 13A, Black: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics & Photo
Be a couple weeks till it's next used, still have to free up a keg for this batch.
Thank you to all you guys for your comments on here. As they've really helped me.