Sonofresco 1–2 lb Coffee Roasters: Specs & Setup Guide

If you’re looking to roast small batches of coffee with precision and control—whether for sampling new beans or producing limited runs—the Sonofresco CR1S and CR2 roasters offer a compelling solution. But with multiple models, fuel options, and technical specs, it’s hard to know which unit fits your setup. Here’s everything you need to know.

The Sonofresco CR1S is a 1-lb (120g sample) roaster, while the CR2 handles 2-lbs (approx. 900g). Both feature electronic controls, propane or natural gas fuel options, and come in cherry red and stainless steel finishes. Key specs like capacity, power draw, and dimensions vary by model.

What Are the Sonofresco CR1S and CR2 Roasters?

Sonofresco’s CR1S and CR2 are small-capacity coffee roasters designed for precision roasting. The CR1S is a 1-lb (120g sample) model, ideal for testing and small batches. The CR2 is a 2-lb roaster, better suited for slightly larger production. Both are fully automatic and electronically controlled, with programmable roast profiles.

Model Numbers, Capacities, and Configurations

Sonofresco offers these roasters in multiple model numbers: CR1S variants include 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400; CR2 variants are 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400. All share the same core specifications: the CR1S roasts 1.4 lbs (approx. 635g) with a 120g sample capacity, while the CR2 handles 2.8 lbs (approx. 1.27kg). Each includes a removable chaff collector and glass roasting chamber.

Power, Voltage, and Fuel Options

Both roasters require 360 watts of electric power. Voltage varies: models 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 operate at 120V (60Hz, 3A or 1.5A depending on model), while 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400 run at 230V (50 or 60Hz, 1.5A or 3A). Fuel options include propane or natural gas, allowing flexibility based on your facility’s setup.

Physical Dimensions and Weight

The CR1S measures approximately 11.25x19x27 inches (28.6×48.3×68.6cm) and weighs about 55 pounds. The CR2 is larger, at roughly 13.25×20.5×28.75 inches (33.5×52.1×73cm) and 65 pounds. Both are compact enough for small roasting spaces or labs.

How to Set Up and Use the Roaster

Setting up involves assembling the chaff collector: add the correct coffee dose, then attach the chaff collector, outer cover, and chaff filter to the roasting glass, ensuring the rubber gasket seals tightly to prevent heat loss and chaff escape. To use, turn on power and gas, select a roast profile (0–9), and press the start button. The electronic control panel displays roast time, temperature, and allows adjustments via arrow keys.

Key Technical Features

The roasters feature an electronic control panel with a start button, power switch, gas valve, and program adjustment arrows. The digital screen shows real-time roast time, temperature (viewable by pressing ▼ and ▲), and a temperature-vs-time graph for comparing your roast to standard profiles. Temperature and time data help you replicate or refine roast curves.

Image References

The roaster setup, including chaff collector assembly and glass chamber, is shown in detail. The controls and display interface are visible in operation.

A view of the roasting chamber and chaff collection system during a roast cycle.

Electrical and gas connections, along with the control panel layout.

Close-up of the chaff collector assembly and sealing components.

Roast chamber with glass door and chaff filter in place.

Side view of the roaster with dimensions indicated.

Control panel and digital display in use.

Overall unit with chaff collector attached.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the two main Sonofresco roaster models?

The Sonofresco CR1S is a 1-lb (120g sample) roaster, and the CR2 is a 2-lb roaster. Both are fully automatic and electronically controlled, designed for small-batch roasting.

What capacities do the CR1S and CR2 roasters have?

The CR1S roasts up to 1.4 lbs (approx. 635g) with a 120g sample capacity. The CR2 handles up to 2.8 lbs (approx. 1.27kg). Both include a glass roasting chamber and chaff collector.

What fuel options are available for these roasters?

Both the CR1S and CR2 can run on either propane or natural gas, offering flexibility based on your gas supply.

What are the power requirements for the CR1S and CR2?

Both require 360 watts of electric power. Voltage varies: some models use 120V (60Hz), others 230V (50 or 60Hz), with corresponding amperage differences.

How do you set up the chaff collector on these roasters?

Add the correct coffee dose, then attach the chaff collector, outer cover, and chaff filter to the roasting glass. Ensure the rubber gasket is properly seated to prevent heat loss and chaff escape.

What controls does the electronic panel include?

The panel features a start button, power switch, gas valve, program adjustment arrows, and a digital screen showing roast time, temperature, and a temperature-vs-time comparison graph.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Small-Batch Roasting

For the Sonofresco CR1S or CR2, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Yirgacheffe—bright with citrus, blueberry, and floral notes—or their Colombia Huila, offering balanced caramel, almond, and mild acidity. Both single origins shine when roasted to highlight their unique profiles, ideal for testing roast curves on these 1–2 lb machines. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.