Ikawa Pro

Respecting the Roast Transitioning from a casual coffee drinker to a home roaster requires more than just curiosity; it demands the right equipment. The Behmor 2000AB Plus stands as a gateway for those graduating from rudimentary popcorn poppers to a dedicated electric drum roaster. This machine offers a generous 400-gram capacity, a significant leap for the home kitchen, all while maintaining an accessible price point under 500 euros. Navigating the Drum and Heat The Behmor 2000AB Plus features a metal mesh drum and a series of preset profiles designed to handle varying bean densities. While the interface provides data on exhaust and wall temperatures, it lacks a direct probe for bean temperature. This means a roaster must rely on their senses—listening for the first crack and observing color changes through the glass window. The machine is remarkably quiet during the Maillard phase, allowing for precise auditory monitoring of the roast development. The Learning Curve of Craft Roasting is a tactile discipline. My experience with the Behmor 2000AB Plus confirms that success isn't immediate. Initial attempts often result in underdeveloped "green" batches or oily, over-roasted beans. The internal cooling cycle is notoriously slow, which can inadvertently bake the coffee and mute its vibrant acidity. To achieve a bright, floral profile—especially with high-altitude Ethiopian beans from Artisan Green Bean—you must intervene. Opening the door and using external fans can speed up cooling and preserve those delicate citric notes. Final Verdict For the home enthusiast, the Behmor 2000AB Plus is a robust, quiet, and effective tool. It demands respect for the process and a willingness to experiment with manual cooling. While the preset programs offer limited profiling for professional-grade precision, they provide a solid foundation for anyone seeking to bring fresh, gourmet aromas into their daily ritual. It is a celebratory entry point into the heritage of coffee preparation.