The digital scales are really nice, but don't underestimate the capability of 
the old mechanical scales if they weigh the two sticks of butter and the 
package of cream cheese accurately. It seems to me that there are too many 
other uncontrolled variables for this to have much effect on the end results 
of your coffee. 
It has been really interesting to read your experiences because they are the 
same shortcomings I have expressed and experienced with the Alp. If you 
decide you just really want to get a great roast with absolutely no worry 
about messing up a half pound of beans, try a HWP and I doubt you will be 
sorry. Just crank it on high, wait till sometime after first crack when the 
beans look right and hit the cool button (yep, a green light even comes on).
Terry
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package of
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Thanks, Terry. 
A digital scale might be easier to calibrate, but I don't think any of the
difficulties I've been having with the Alp are because I'm not controlling
the weight of the beans. 
As I wrote in another message here, I seem to be making progress with the
Alp - and may even have something worth drinking tomorrow. We shall see!
I already have a FreshRoast, so don't think I'll get a Hearthware anytime
soon. Think I need to tame the Alp... I think I can (like the Little Engine
That Could!).
Onward and upward!
Kathleen