Newbie

[Rainsmoke]

Hello everyone! I'm in Washington state, and grill and BBQ about 5 times a week. I'm really exited to get to know my smoker, but I have a small issue. I just got a BSO, but have'nt opened it yet because I really wanted the BSD. I can send it back and wait :'( for the return process then order the digital one. Or is there a way to order the digital unit and upgrade this one?

[Saber 4]

Welcome from Texas, I would think if you want the digital it would be better to get one than to try to adapt one. Other's will be along with their opinions, you might want to tell everyone what you want to smoke so they can tell you whether they think you would be better with a digital or original.

[Rainsmoke]

Ok, thanks. I am going to be smoking everything under the sun. I just figured the digital one is an upgrade. I try to purchase high quality tools. I never seem to regreat it.

[TedEbear]

If it was me I'd keep the BSO and put the $100 or so difference toward a PID controller that was designed for the Bradley.  Much tighter temp control and the dual probe version has a lot of options.

Programmable PID Controller for Bradley Smoker

Dual-Probe PID Controller for Bradley Smoker

[Rainsmoke]

Nice! Thanks, that dual PID looks like the way to go. Plus I can open up my baby and get smokin! ;D

[TedEbear]

I know there are a few people on here who will have kittens when they read that someone is thinking about getting a PID controller for their brand new Bradley before they have had to use it for a while and see how it works.  However, it is a popular mod and people who have them think they are well worth the price.

Here are a few links if you want to learn more about them, how to initially set one up and things:

Auber Plug & Play PIDs

Auber PID Step Programming

[KyNola]

I'm probably one of those kitten folks Ted is referring and admittedly at one time I was but I finally gave up that argument.  Heck, it's your smoker and you should do whatever you feel works best for you.  Here is some information for you regarding a PID.  It you are going to cure and smoke sausages, tight temp control is critical(+/-1-2 degrees).  In some fish smoking applications tight temp control is critical.  That is the largest and main purpose of a PID.  A PID is not going to aid with a faster heat up time nor heat recovery.

In other smoking applications such as ribs, butts, bacon, briskets, etc tight temp control is not essential.  A Bradley will have temp swings without a PID, including the digital model.  I have the digital model and have owned it for the last 7 years.  The primary difference in the digital vs the original is that with the digital you set the temp and you're done.  With the original model you sort of have to "dial it in" until you get a feel for where to set it.

Again, you do what you feel you need to do for your particular use of the Bradley.  Hopefully the information I have provided will be of some help to you.

[Rainsmoke]

You guys are great, I really appreciate all of the advice. I haven't ordered yet, but do plan on getting the dual PID.

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[beefmann]

welcome aboard