Still spirits Turbo 500 still

[Robbo12]

Hi in after the above is it better than an air still as I'm new to this any help would be appreciated thanks.

[Mash]

Robbo,

I htink we are getting in a loop here.

Everyone will give you a different answer. Is no right way or right bit of kit. Probably best to think what fits you & your budget.

Air still will only do 4.5 L per run, but once you get good at it, you can plug it in and leave it to carry on.
It is a very capable machine and often available second hand for about £80.
IMHO a good place to start. Do not even read the instructions that come with it, throw them away and read the guide here. It is also popular choice for people who upgrade to keep their air still because it is much better for smaller batches. A bit advanced for the moment (perhaps bedtime reading) but a freezer makes the air still MUCH quicker. I love 'em. Simple and effective in good hands.

A turbo 500 is water cooled, more expensive and you will have to spend some time (4-5 hours) per run watching it. This might be a problem if you can't afford that block of time.
Normally I believe they come with a column and for whiskey you would want a dome and a condenser, which will cost extra. Typically, you may also find you want a water regulator & a power controller. However the good news is that that will do 25 L in one go.

There is no one answer, right or wrong (however many times you ask )

What do you want to do with it and how much space have you got?

[Robbo12]

Ok thanks for replying I'm looking at a second hand one tonight it's. Still spirits Turbo 500 still.

[Mash]

is it the one on here ?

[jonx69]

No, I just about bagged icefevers T500 in time, I'm already working out water recirc and looking at power controllers, and I haven't even got it yet

[Robbo12]

No not from hear it went that one I'm paying 325 for it it's the turbo 500 with the stainless steel condenser and all the gear to go with it apart from the yeast,sugar .

[jonx69]

RE: power controller
I had just read the thread, have ordered one too, hopefully up to the job.

[Easydrinker]

I am lost already
Looking to chip in something useful if I can.

Robert.

[Icefever]

RE: power controller
I had just read the thread, have ordered one too, hopefully up to the job.

You do need a controller, either build one or buy....another item you will need jon is a PRV on your cold water system to control the flow better as mains pressure can go up & down like a whores drawers.

[jonx69]

RE: cold water system
I was planning to use a 50L Barrel of water, run through a brew pump (magnetic type) then throttle flow as required with an inline valve, before returning to barrel, probably have a few milk cartons of frozen water at the ready in case water gets too warm.

[Mash]

My prediction....That will be a PITA.