STARSEEKER Edge & Edge Plus | Espresso Making & Refrection Tests

Summary

In this video, the creator compares two coffee grinders, the Edge Plus and the Edge from Starseeker, while brewing an espresso shot using freshly roasted coffee from Burundi. The process includes weighing the beans, adjusting grind size, and using specialized tools like a refractometer to measure extraction quality. Through hands-on experimentation, the creator explores the impact of different grind settings on flavor and acidity, concluding both grinders produce high-quality espresso. The video emphasizes a personal, no-editing approach, aimed at sharing authentic coffee brewing experiences.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video focuses on brewing an espresso shot using two different grinders: The Edge Plus and The Edge from Starseeker.
• 😀 The coffee used is a natural processed Burundi coffee called Goose End, roasted on September 17th, which is almost 11 days old.
• 😀 The presenter weighs out 18 grams of beans using a scale from the D Floyd company, which also measures flow rate during extraction.
• 😀 The process begins by using RDT (Room Temperature Distilled Water) to prevent clumping and a clean coffee grinding process.
• 😀 The grind settings for the first shot are set at number 8, and the extraction takes about 24 seconds, yielding 40 grams of espresso.
• 😀 After brewing, the coffee is tasted, and the one made with the Edge Plus is described as having a better overall aftertaste, while the one made with the Edge has less acidity.
• 😀 The video highlights the importance of using a precise WDT (Weiss Distribution Technique) tool like the Duomo for even coffee bed preparation.
• 😀 The extraction method includes using flow control to allow for a soft pre-infusion before fully opening up the flow to ensure proper brewing.
• 😀 The presenter also compares the two grinders' performance using a refractometer to measure the TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) and extraction yield, both reaching a good range.
• 😀 The video emphasizes the quality of the grinders, suggesting that they produce high-quality grinds at a reasonable price, suitable for both beginners and seasoned coffee enthusiasts.
• 😀 The presenter mentions that all opinions shared are personal, as they are not sponsored and aim to offer honest feedback to viewers.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video?

The creator compares espresso shots made with two grinders—the Edge Plus and the Edge from Starseeker—using the same coffee, dose, and machine conditions to assess differences in taste and extraction.

What coffee beans are used in the video?

The coffee used is a natural-processed Burundi coffee called Goose End, roasted by the creator on September 17 and brewed 11 days later.

Why does the creator choose a dose of 18 grams?

The creator typically doses 18 grams for espresso and uses this amount consistently to maintain comparable results between both grinders.

What is the function of RDT and why is it used?

RDT (Ross Droplet Technique) involves lightly misting the beans with water before grinding to reduce static, helping achieve a cleaner workflow and preventing grounds from sticking to surfaces.

How does the creator perform WDT and why is it important?

He uses a Duomo WDT tool to evenly distribute the grounds in the portafilter. This ensures uniform density, reduces channeling during extraction, and increases shot consistency.

How does the flow control process work during extraction?

He starts with the valve mostly closed for a soft pre-infusion, waits for the pressure gauge to move (indicating coffee flow), then slowly opens the valve and starts the timer to maintain controlled extraction.

What differences were noted between the two grinders’ espresso shots?

The Edge Plus shot showed more acidity and a more pronounced fruity profile, while the Edge shot was more balanced and less acidic. However, after cooling, the shots tasted more similar.

What TDS readings did the refractometer show for each grinder?

The Edge grinder shot measured around 9.0 TDS, while the Edge Plus shot measured about 9.41 TDS. Both fell within the ideal espresso extraction range.

What tools and accessories does the creator use to ensure shot consistency?

He uses a precision scale with flow-rate detection, a Duomo WDT tool, a tamp, a puck screen, a flow-control device on the espresso machine, and a refractometer to measure extraction yield.

Why does the creator avoid editing his videos?

He prefers to present the process as it is to give viewers a realistic, unfiltered experience that reflects true workflow and challenges.

What surprised the creator about the second shot using the smaller Edge grinder?

Despite being set at a grind size of only '2', the second grinder produced an extraction very similar in timing, taste, and TDS to the larger Edge Plus grinder, suggesting strong performance from the compact model.

What conclusions does the creator draw about the grinders?

He concludes that both grinders perform exceptionally well, offering high-quality grind results at a competitive price, and that taste differences are subtle and not easily distinguishable without blind testing.