Speidel Braumeister 20L with short Malt pipe vs 10L?

[Jayfro21]

Sorry for the multiple forum post!

Hi all,

I am really looking into getting one of these two systems, but I am trying to figure out which configuration I would like to get. I currently do 2.5 gallon batches and do not plan anytime in the near future to scale up to 5 gallon batches (for two reason, 1) I don't need that much of one beer and 2) I HATE bottling 5 gallons of beer and do not plan on going back to kegging anytime soon). So I am trying to make the decision between getting to 20L version with the short malt pipe to brew 10L batches or just getting the 10L version by itself. The only reason to get the 20L version for me is the rare occasion I would like to do a bigger beer without needing to use DME/LME or other sugars to boost the SG. Plus, the 20L version has a more powerful pump and a 2000W element, which means to me faster boiling time and more vigorous boil. However, I love the tiny size of the 10L and it's obviously a little cheaper. Anybody have any experience with this issue and can provide some insight? Thanks in advance!

- Jason

 

[alphaomega]

For 10L batches, I really don't think you need a braumeister. That would be a very managable size for regular biab.
Now, I guess the 10L version does fill a 'need' and if you are certain that this is the size you want to continue with, then you can double sparge or add dme/lme to hit higher gravity beers.
I would assume the 10L would be easier to clean due to being smaller and less heavy.
So, I'd say just brew on the stove or get an induction hob and just do biab. Or get the 10L version if you really want one and are certain you don't want to do bigger batches in the future, or get the 20L if you might want to scale up. The occasional higher gravity beer is no reason to buy the 20L.

 

[wobdee]

I've been looking into the same thing. I brew 3 gal batches that ends up as 2.5 gal in the keg after fermenter trub loss. I've read its possible to make a 3-3.5 gal batch in the 20l BM without the short malt pipe if you start with 20-21 liters of water, no sparge and a 90 min boil. You just have to watch out that the heating elements aren't exposed during the mash and I've read that 20-21 liters is about as low as you can go. The amount of grain absorption also plays a role. I may go this route and if it doesn't work out I'll purchase the 10l malt pipe.