Update: After a few final tests this weekend, I have finished up the review and photos. Pluses and minuses, but overall a good product.
So what is the same?
They have 110 V, 1/4 hp motors They refine in about the same time. They look a lot a like. The bowl is not dishwasher safe.
What is better?
Steel parts. Lighter wheels. Easier handling. 1 year warranty. In limited tests it seems to grinds nibs into liqueur a little better and faster. A little quieter
What is worse?
It is a little more expensive. The shaft has a small gap at the bottom that can trap unrefined chocolate (but scraps out ok). The half cover is a little awkward. You can’t taste the chocolate easily with it running. It flings chocolate a bit due to the cant of the wheels.
Do I like the Santha or Ultra better? You tell me. I am still undecided.
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I want to give people a first look at the Ultra Melanger. I will have more detailed pictures up over the weekend and will address any questions people have. Right now, the biggest question I am getting is "Do you recommend the Ultra over the Santha?" In a nutshell, no, I am not 'recommending' either above the other. Both do the the job - both have their quirks. I leave it to you to decide which is right for you.