Interesting (new type?) kit

HemmingSay

I've never brewed before, but what's your opinion on this thing?

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/965729099/the-catalyst-beer-fermentation-made-easy

I've been put off in the past because of lack of storage/work space - something that this seems to address. But I also don't know enough to properly critique it. What do you see as the main downsides or limitations?

The price tag is the obvious one and with the $100 shipping on top, it's probably not something I'd buy. But I'm interested in the forums opinion on it.

Also, has it been tried before? Thanks!

BeerNut

HemmingSay wrote: »

but what's your opinion on this thing?

Like every single "homebrewing made simple" solution it costs more and is less flexible than doing things the normal way.

HemmingSay wrote: »

I've been put off in the past because of lack of storage/work space - something that this seems to address.

I don't see how. You brew on a stove and ferment in a container that has to stand somewhere. A standard homebrew fermenting vessel has the same or less space requirements.

HemmingSay wrote: »

Also, has it been tried before?

The Homebrew Company sells this, which looks like basically the same thing. In both cases I can see why a brewer might want a piece of kit like this, but I wouldn't regard it as beginner equipment. Learn how to brew first, then upgrade to the fancy tools.

HemmingSay

Yeah, I get what you're saying - I would definitely be better off getting in cheap and seeing if I enjoy brewing. I guess I'm just a sucker for the shiny gadgets and/or well pitched kickstarter videos.