THE NEW FELLOW STAGG EKG PRO - Worth The Upgrade?

Summary

In this video, the host reviews the newly released Fellow Stag EKG Pro and Pro Studio kettles, highlighting their updates and improvements over the original model. The Pro Studio features a metal base and a full-color LCD screen with innovative features like guide mode, adjustable hold mode, and Wi-Fi connectivity. While the design remains familiar, the host discusses the quality-of-life upgrades and their impact on daily use, as well as the potential for future software updates. The video also addresses the price point and whether these enhancements justify an upgrade for current EKG owners.

Takeaways

• 🆕 Philip Products has released a new lineup of kettles, the Stag EKG Pro and Pro Studio, which are updates to the popular Stag EKG kettle.
• 🔍 The Stag EKG Pro retains the familiar design and gooseneck spout of the original EKG, with subtle updates like rubber feet and a metal end cap on the handle.
• 🔄 The Pro Studio model features a metal base instead of plastic and a glass top, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
• 📱 Both the Pro and Pro Studio models come with a full-color LCD screen, introducing new features such as guide mode, adjustable hold mode, chime adjustments, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
• 😐 The reviewer has not yet experienced the app functionality, which is a disappointment as it is a significant feature of the new models.
• 🔄 The new models include software updates from Fellow, indicating a commitment to future enhancements and improvements.
• 🕒 The scheduling feature allows the kettle to reach a specific temperature at a set time, catering to convenience and modern lifestyle needs.
• 📊 The guide mode presets temperatures for various brewing methods, offering a tailored experience for different types of coffee or tea.
• 🔔 The chime feature alerts users when the desired temperature is reached, with adjustable volume settings.
• 🚫 The adjustable hole feature allows the kettle to hold water temperature for a set duration, which can be useful for sanitizing water before brewing.
• 🏞 The altitude feature helps avoid over-boiling by adjusting to the user's elevation, ensuring optimal water temperature for brewing.
• 💰 The Pro Studio model is priced higher than the original EKG, starting at $225, which may be a consideration for potential buyers.

Q & A

What new product lineup did Fellow State release today?

Fellow State released a new calendar lineup including the Stag EKG Pro and Pro Studio.

What makes the Stag EKG Pro different from the original Stag EKG kettle?

The Stag EKG Pro has a new electronic base, a full-color LCD screen with additional features, and quality of life upgrades such as rubber feet, a metal end cap on the handle, and a new lid with a rubber gasket.

What is the significance of the Stag EKG kettle in the specialty coffee world?

The Stag EKG is considered the flagship kettle of Fellow State and is likely the most popular gooseneck kettle in North America, known for ushering in a new era of specialty coffee pour-over brewing with its flow restriction and precision design.

What are some of the new features available on the Stag EKG Pro's LCD screen?

The new LCD screen on the Stag EKG Pro offers guide mode, adjustable hold mode, chime adjustments, altitude pre-boil scheduling, and Wi-Fi connectivity for software updates.

How does the Stag EKG Pro's pour control compare to other kettles like Brewista and Time More Fish?

The Stag EKG Pro offers precise control flow but lacks the speed of Brewista for faster pours. It has more control at slower speeds than the Barista but is different from the Time More Fish, which holds a steady stream at higher heights with slightly more control.

What is the starting price for the Pro Studio model of the Stag EKG kettle?

The Pro Studio model of the Stag EKG kettle starts at $225.

What is the main issue with the new lid design on the Stag EKG Pro?

The new lid with a rubber gasket can be difficult to remove after boiling due to expansion, which can be problematic for back-to-back brews.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the Stag EKG Pro's LCD screen quality?

The reviewer finds the LCD screen to be good, stating that it does the job and makes the price of the kettle more understandable, despite not being an OLED with perfect blacks or having a high refresh rate.

What is the reviewer's stance on the upgrades made to the Stag EKG Pro?

The reviewer appreciates the upgrades but wishes there were more innovative features, such as adjustable flow rates, that haven't been done yet on the market.

Should someone upgrade to the Stag EKG Pro if they already own a gooseneck kettle?

The reviewer suggests that it depends on the individual's needs and whether they value the new features of the Stag EKG Pro. If the features are not important to them, they can opt for the cheaper original Stag EKG or other kettles on the market.

What is the reviewer's involvement in the design process of the Stag EKG Pro?

The reviewer had a small say in the design process of the kettle, providing feedback and input during the prototyping stage, but was not paid or compensated other than helping create the product.

Outlines

00:00

🔍 Introduction to the Fellow Stag EKG Pro and Pro Studio

The script introduces the new Fellow Stag EKG Pro and Pro Studio kettles, emphasizing their significance in the specialty coffee brewing community. The Stag EKG is highlighted as a popular and recognizable gooseneck kettle, which has influenced pour-over brewing since its release in 2017. The script mentions that while the kettle's design has remained largely unchanged, the Pro and Pro Studio models now offer updates and improvements. The reviewer has had the opportunity to test these models and will share their honest thoughts on whether these are worthy upgrades. Key features such as the gooseneck spout, flow control, and design are discussed, along with comparisons to other kettles like the Brewista and Time More Fish. The script also notes new features like rubber feet, a metal end cap, and a redesigned lid with a rubber gasket for a snug fit and noise reduction at high temperatures.

05:02

🛠️ Reviewer's Experience and Features of the Fellow Stag EKG Pro

The reviewer shares their experience with the Fellow Stag EKG Pro and Pro Studio, focusing on the new features and upgrades. They mention the full-color LCD screen, which introduces several new functionalities such as guide mode, adjustable hold mode, chime adjustments, altitude pre-boil scheduling, and Wi-Fi connectivity for future software updates. However, the reviewer expresses disappointment with the lack of app functionality at the time of the review. The script also covers the new metal base for the Pro Studio model, the adjustment dial, and the overall improved design and user interface. The reviewer discusses both the positive aspects, such as the quality of life upgrades, and the negative points, like the difficulty in removing the lid after boiling. They also touch on the pricing, comparing it to the original EKG, and the potential for additional features that could have been included. The script concludes with the reviewer's personal opinion on whether one should upgrade to the new models based on their usage and interest in the new features.

Keywords

💡Philip products

Philip products refers to a brand known for its high-quality products, in this context it's the company that released a new lineup of coffee kettles. The video discusses the updates to their kettles, which are significant to coffee enthusiasts due to the brand's reputation for specialty coffee equipment.

💡Fellow State EKG Pro

The Fellow State EKG Pro is the updated version of the popular gooseneck kettle from Fellow. It is a key focus of the video as the reviewer discusses its new features and improvements. The EKG Pro is important because it represents the evolution of a flagship product in the coffee brewing world.

💡Gooseneck Kettle

A gooseneck kettle is a type of kettle with a long, curved spout that allows for precise pouring control, which is essential for specialty coffee brewing techniques. The script mentions the gooseneck spout as a critical feature that remains unchanged in the new models.

💡Precision

Precision in the context of the video refers to the accuracy and control of the kettle's features, particularly the flow rate of water from the spout. The Fellow EKG Pro is noted for its precision in design and performance, which is vital for achieving the desired outcome in coffee brewing.

💡PID Tech

PID Tech stands for Proportional-Integral-Derivative technology, which is a control system used in the kettle to maintain a consistent temperature. The video emphasizes the importance of this technology in the Fellow EKG Pro for achieving precise brewing temperatures.

💡Upgrade

The term 'upgrade' is used throughout the script to describe the new features and improvements in the Fellow EKG Pro and Pro Studio models. The reviewer evaluates whether these upgrades are significant enough for consumers to consider purchasing the new models over the original.

💡Pro Studio

The Pro Studio is a specific model of the Fellow EKG Pro kettle that comes with additional features such as a metal base and a full color LCD screen. The video discusses the unique aspects of the Pro Studio model and its appeal to serious coffee enthusiasts.

💡Full color LCD

The full color LCD is a new feature in the Fellow EKG Pro and Pro Studio kettles that replaces the previous screen. It is highlighted in the script as a significant upgrade, offering a more visually appealing interface and additional functionality such as Wi-Fi connectivity and software updates.

💡Wi-Fi Connectivity

Wi-Fi connectivity in the Fellow EKG Pro allows the kettle to connect to the internet, enabling features like software updates and app integration. The script mentions this as a modern luxury and a sign of the product's advancement in smart home technology.

💡Pour Over Brewing

Pour over brewing is a manual coffee brewing method where coffee grounds are soaked in a vessel with a filter. The video script mentions this as a context where the precision and control of the Fellow EKG Pro's gooseneck spout are particularly beneficial.

💡Altitude Pre-boil

Altitude pre-boil is a feature that adjusts the kettle's boiling point based on the user's elevation to prevent over-boiling, which can affect coffee taste. The script describes this as a thoughtful addition to the Fellow EKG Pro, catering to users in high-altitude locations.

Highlights

Philips products released a new calendar lineup including the Fellow State EKG Pro and Pro Studio.

The Stag EKG is a flagship kettle, popular in North America and recognizable worldwide.

The EKG Pro has not been updated since its Kickstarter in 2017, until the introduction of the new Pro and Pro Studio models.

The Stag EKG Pro retains the same body shape and electronic base as previous models, with a familiar design.

The gooseneck spout, a crucial aspect of coffee kettles, remains unchanged in the EKG Pro.

The EKG Pro offers precise control flow but lacks the speed of Brewista or Time More kettles.

New features on the EKG Pro include rubber feet to prevent surface scratching and a metal end cap on the handle.

The Pro Studio model has a new lid with a rubber gasket for a snug fit and to avoid rattling at high temperatures.

The new Fellow base for the EKG Pro and Pro Studio includes a full-color LCD screen with various new features.

The LCD screen enables features like guide mode, adjustable hold mode, chime adjustments, and altitude pre-boil scheduling.

Wi-Fi connectivity allows the kettle to receive software updates and adds scheduling capabilities.

The adjustable hole feature allows the kettle to hold water temperature for a set amount of time.

The LCD also has an always-on clock and shows the percentage of water reaching its set temperature.

The reviewer had input on the design process of the kettle but received no compensation, ensuring unbiased feedback.

The reviewer suggests that the EKG Pro is a good upgrade for those who use a gooseneck kettle frequently.

The Pro Studio model starts at $225, a higher price point than the original EKG, reflecting its new features.

The reviewer acknowledges the possibility of unconscious bias due to involvement in the design process.

The reviewer turned down a sponsorship offer to ensure the video's honesty and integrity.

Transcripts

so Philip products dropped a new

calendar lineup today the fellow State

EKG pro and pro studio and I've actually

had it for a while so today I want to

share what's new what's familiar and

give my honest thoughts on if this is a

kettle that you should consider to

upgrade to or maybe not now this product

is important for a few reasons first the

Stag EKG which is this Kettle right here

is their Flagship Kettle it's likely the

most popular gooseneck Kettle in North

America and other than maybe the Hario

gooseneck Kettle maybe most recognizable

in the world and when it released it

ushered in a new era of specialty coffee

pour over Brewing it had Flow

Restriction with beautiful style to

match this important Precision in both

design and PID Tech but since fellow's

Kickstarter of the Stag EKG back in 2017

this Kittle hasn't been updated or

changed other than a few colorways and

some wood accents it's remained the same

until today this is the Stag EKG Pro and

more specifically this is the Pro Studio

so let's dive into this I'll share

what's new in My overall experience and

Impressions with the pro and pro Studio

as well as things you need to know also

if you appreciate the content at any

point in this video including Maybe

right now consider tapping that like

button down below for the YouTube

algorithm so like I said I've had the

EKG Pro for a while almost a year in

fact if you count the early prototype I

tested and provided feedback and input

on and when I received it I thought they

had originally sent me the original EKG

by mistake that's because the Stag EKG

Pro looks very familiar in fact at first

glance you wouldn't even really know

that this is a new updated model but

it is though the body shape is identical

to past models this is a beautiful

Design After all the electronic base is

square in about the same thickness and

shape as the past models and the

gooseneck spout arguably the most

important aspect of any coffee Kettle

remains untouched so depending on your

love for the original EKG and its spell

that's either a great thing or maybe not

now in comparison with other kettles

including the brewista and time or fish

the EKG Pro pours with the precise

control flow but lacks the speed of

breweries to add faster pores for

practices like cupping or immersion

methods or tea but has more control at

slower speeds than the Barista but still

has a different level of control

compared to the timer at these slower

speeds I found the fish to hold a steady

stream without breakups at a higher

height than the EKG with slightly more

control but I mean this isn't new

information the EKG pro has the exact

same flow rate spell InDesign as the

fellow EKG kettles so if you enjoyed

that or want something that has been

widely standardized the EKG Pro will fit

that bill but what is new on the body is

rubber feet that line the bottom of the

kettle to avoid scratching surfaces and

holding the kettle in place it also has

a metal end cap on the handle where your

thumb would sit at least for just the

studio model as well as a new lid and

this new lid has a new vent shape on the

back as well as it has a rubber gasket

to line This lid so that it fits more

snug and avoids rattling at boiling

temperatures I think it's also supposed

to retain heat though I'm not sure how

effective that would be so all these

upgrades are great don't get me wrong

their quality of life upgrades were

product that most people use daily but

they're likely not something you're

going to throw your old kid out the

window for so let's talk about the new

fellow base and this is where you're

going to find most of the updates and

upgrades to the fellow stag EKG pro and

pro studio now if you get the Pro Studio

which is this model right here the base

is now made of metal instead of the old

plastic huge Plus for that with a glass

topping now the adjustment dial is also

metal instead of the old plastic

materials but if you do get the pro

instead of the studio you would get the

familiar plastic base but regardless of

the pro or the Pro Studio go the big

upgrade for both is its new screen they

both offer a full color LCD now this new

LCD is pretty but more importantly

houses a bunch of new features including

guide mode adjustable hold mode chime

adjustments altitude pre-boil scheduling

in advance and Wi-Fi connectivity but

very disappointingly I actually haven't

had any air time with the app since it

won't launch until the product release a

huge bummer and honestly quite

disappointed about that but Wi-Fi

connectivity also allows this Kettle to

receive software updates from fellow and

this is exciting because this is

something that fellow is making very

clear will happen in the future what

that entails I have no idea at this

point then scheduling allows the kettle

to reach a specific temperature at a

specific time so if you want your kale

to be hot each morning before you wake

up or heat it before you get home from

work again modern luxuries Now guide

allows you to preset temperatures for

different Brewing methods preset

temperatures to tea pour over or

Aeropress the pro also has a chimed in

form you when your temperature has been

reached and you can adjust the volume in

the settings pre-boy oil is a feature my

wife would have loved when our kids were

newborns and we had to feed them bottles

it brings the kettle to a boil before

returning to the set temperature to

sanitize water before Brewing you can

also turn this on or off in the settings

the adjustable hole allows you to

program the kettle to only hold the

water temperature for a set amount of

time mine is programmable from 0 to 60

minutes and a welcome features altitude

the ability to enter your elevation to

avoid over boiling your water the LCD

also has some new pass abilities like

having an always-on clock you can have

either digital or analog I find myself

using the analog clock and you can turn

it off altogether as well as it gives a

visual dial or like a percentage of how

much your water has reached its set

temperature it's nothing really big but

it's just pretty as you're watching your

Kettle heat up

something that you do so let me share

things that I love and things that I

don't love so much first off the LCD

it's good no it's not an OLED with

perfect blacks or the newest iPhone with

a high refresh rate but I mean this

isn't it's not a gaming monitor this

does the job and it makes the price of

the kettle a little more understandable

now speaking of pricing the Pro Studio

starts at 225 and for context the

original EKG starts at 165 and the

interface is easy to use and in fellow

style everything down to the font

packaging and branding is well thought

out and Polished much more improved over

the Prototype that I was sent but some

downsides because this is not a perfect

Kettle I don't overly enjoy the new lid

with the rubber gasket what happens is

after boiling or heating up either the

lid or rubber gasket or both expand and

make it very hard to remove the lid

after boiling now this is only an issue

if you're doing back to back Brews like

I often do now this is a comment I made

to fellow in the prototyping and said

that this should be changed so that you

can remove the lid and while some other

things that accomplished it did get

changed this one didn't so a hack to fix

this is the lid now overhangs the kettle

you can pry it off with your fingers or

you can just remove this rubber gasket

all together or use a pass fellow stag

EKG lid if you want to now outside of

that everything operates as it should

which is either a good thing or a bad

thing I don't want to nitpick too much

here but this could have been an

opportunity for fellow to really

reinvent the wheel but it seems like

they've taken a stance that they don't

really want to and I don't want to hate

that because I think that they have a

great product here it would have been

cool to see some new features like maybe

adjustable flow rates or some other

things that nobody else is doing on the

market right now but outside of that

everything does operate as it should so

if you enjoy the fellow snag EKG then

this is that but with extra stuff the

software works as it should for me and

I've boosted confidence in knowing that

the software will be updated over time

as long as fellow holds of their promise

which they have a good track record of

but it might take a little bit of time

so the question you're wondering should

you upgrade to the fullestack EKG Pro or

Pro Studio I think it depends on the

kind of person that you are do you

already have a gooseneck cattle do you

care for any any of these features that

I've mentioned if you don't then you can

simply opt for the cheaper fellow stack

EKG or other kettles on the market but

if you find yourself in a space like me

where I use my gooseneck Kettle more

than probably any other Appliance in my

home yeah these are really nice upgrades

and they matter to me while the price

isn't cheap and some of you may scoff at

the thought which I would totally

understand I pay more money for things

that I use a lot less sure I would have

loved to see them upgrade some more

stuff than what has been upgraded

especially on the body and do some

things that haven't been done yet but

there isn't a ton for me to nitpick here

today it's a familiar Kettle with new

tech updates and possibly upgrades along

the way oh yeah it seems like they've

gotten rid of wormy unless I haven't

seen it here somehow so maybe don't get

this for that reason no I'm kidding of

course but fellow are you gonna airdrop

that to me all of us in a Wi-Fi update

maybe fellow please but now it's your

turn what do you think of the Stag EKG

Pro write all these thoughts in the

comments down below and I promise to

read every single comment also you can

find both kettles linked down below they

are affiliate links and offer a small

kick back to the channel in exchange for

using them at no extra cost to you and

for full disclosure big thank you to

fellow for sending me these kettles to

test and review as always they had no

input in my say don't get to see this

video before you do and these thoughts

are completely my own that being said I

did have a small say in the design

process of this Kettle and while I was

not paid or had any sort of compensation

other than helping create something

really cool I must admit that there

might be a possibility of unconscious

bias I try not to let these things alter

my judgment and I was aware of this

while filming but you should be aware so

discern that as you will also I'll be

helping them create some content for

Instagram around this Kettle now this is

a completely separate campaign from this

video and the two are uncorrelated and

while they offer to sponsor this YouTube

video I actually turned it down and

turned on the offer to ensure that this

was a true full and honest video so

again as much as it hurts this Channel

and my budget to say no to these things

I feel it's important to this Channel

and the trust I've earned with all of

you so I thought you should be aware of

that now before you go if you appreciate

that or you like this video Tamp that

like button on the way out subscribe if

you haven't already we'll see you guys

all in the next video peace