Keg Setup Question

[Ace_Club]

I am a gnat's ass away from pulling the trigger on buying a kegging setup. Right now I have two choices and would like some opinions.

Choice 1 (the one I'm leaning towards) :rockin:

A complete one-keg setup with picnic tap, regulator, 5 gal ball-lock keg, and 10# CO2 cylinder
An extra 5 gal ball-lock keg with o-ring kit

Choice 2

A complete two-keg setup with picnic taps, regulator, 2 5-gal ball-lock kegs, manifold, and 5# CO2 cylinder

Both are $189. The reason I am leaning towards choice 1 is I figure the upgrade to the 10# cylinder is the better deal than a manifold and some extra tubing for the second keg. Thanks for the input.

***Edit: Let me clarify the above. I do plan on expanding the system significantly in the future, which is why I think, for now, the 10# CO2 cylinder will serve me better than the additional tubing/picnic tap/manifold/5# cylinder when it comes time to expand.

 

[arturo7]

The second system allows you to have 2 beers on tap at the same time. How much more for a two-keg setup with a 10# tank? Or, how much for an extra regulator and picnic tap?

 

[boogyman]

It seems like with either of those choices, you're going to have to purchase more or throw out what you don't use in order to get the system you want. I would recommend 1) buying a 'bare bones' kit without a tank so you can get the size you want or 2) piecing it together to get everything you want the first time.

 

[david_42]

I'd go with #1, although tank size isn't a big deal unless you live a long way from a CO2 source. I've got 2 #5 bottles and even with going through a cornie of soda water (40 psi) a week, only swap a tank every couple months.

 

[motobrewer]

#2, 5 pound-er is more than enough for a few taps. don't know your exact "expansion plans" tho.