Model BS611

[Ronneby2]

Hi everyone, I'm new to this forum and to smoking. I would like to know if anyone can tell me if the new model BS611 is better than the original BT1S1. From what I've read so far it seems most prefer one of these over the digital models. I would appreciate your input.   Thanks  Ron

[beefmann]

welcome to the forum, as for the two smokers you  are  referring to.. i can not  say which one is better

[mikecorn.1]

Welcome to the forum! Only thing I can share is that most would go with the non digital model if they are going to add a PID to control it along with a second element or a single 900w.
I'm sure I will stand corrected on this ;) ;D


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[GusRobin]

In my humble opinion, the only benefit of the digital is the extra space. Otherwise I like the extra control with the PID. I never had a digital, but I think that the PID with an original is better if you can live with a the smaller space. I have the OBS with PID and am fortunate that I was able to get a deal on a slightly dented 6 rack cabinet so I think I have the best of both worlds.

The first question you need to ask is how much are you going to smoke? If you are going to do 2-3 butts at a time the four rack is fine. If you are going to do a lot of jerky the 4 rack could be fine by either adding some additional racks (a kit is sold on line or you can just buy some angle aluminum and do it yourself. You can also just buy extra racks and put an inverted rack on each rack and have an instant 8 rack. That would work for jerky, fish and other thin stuff. If you are going to do sausage, you will have to settle with hanging smaller sausages with the 4 rack.

Then it mainly depends upon your budget and what you want to spend the money on. If you are going to add the 2nd element, then a PID (or other controller) is almost necessary. You can get a 4 rack and PID for about the price of a digital.

I guess you will get multiple opinions. So make you rdecision on budget, and what items and quantity you will regularly smoke.
Hope it helps but probably adds more confusion.

[KyNola]

The BS611 is the newer model of the non-digital original smoker.  The controls have been moved away from the bottom of the tower where some used to experience issues.  There are additional improvements that are more of a "convenience" type.  The older model of the original smoker will no longer be available once the remaining stock is depleted.

As for more room with the digital unit, you only get more room with the digital if you get the 6 rack model.  If you get the 4 rack digital, the room in the tower is identical to the BS611.

[Ketch22]

Welcome to the forum!  :)

[Ronneby2]

Thanks for the replys and the warm welcome. I think i'll go with the new BS611. My next question is about the PID. On E-Bay I find many models ranging from $25 to $150. I have an external temp probe so I don't think I need the dual probe. Some come with relays and some have alarms, I would appreciate any advice. Thanks  Ron

[GusRobin]

I can only go by what I have. The Auber dual probe works well for me. I had a single probe and upgraded to the dual. Those are the only ones I know.
Beefman, as well as some others, built their own.
Regardless of which one you buy, do not get the wall mounted probe. You want the free hanging one as it gives you more options.

[TedEbear]

My next question is about the PID.

Here's the one I have.  It's an Auber SYL-2352, about $45 from Auber Instruments.  That's just for the PID itself.  If you add the SSR, thermocouple and other odds and ends the cost will probably be around $70 - $80.