ccp509 popcorn machine- costco - [Text View]

IrmoGamecoq

05-08-06, 08:54 AM

I just got this same popper from Amazon (actually my wife got it for me as a gift) for around $240 shipped. Hate to double post, but here's what I put in the Nostalgia Electrics thread:

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Used this popper for the first time over the weekend, popping two batches back to back.

A few comments:

Never got that "smoke" that some posters (in this thread and the Costco one) mentioned. There was some steam, but that's perfectly normal when popping corn. Maybe that's the smoke they were thinking of.

The unit never stalled once, though it did slow down a bit when the popcorn had gotten "thick" inside the popper.

Lots fewer "old maids" than I had expected after reading threads in these forums.

Definitely best to wait until the popcorn has dried out a bit in the holder (with the heat on) before tasting. It's a little chewie right away. (Insteresting that microwave popcorn doesn't have this problem - don't know how they engineered that)

Used some leftover Wal-mart brand popcorn together with vegetable oil. Will have to find some decent popcorn oil at the very least. I'm not convinced that the popcorn will be much different brand-to-brand, but am willing to do a little taste research in that regard.

Is it okay to salt the popcorn in the holder itself? I was concerned with the salt causing corrosion/rust in the metal. It's not very effective trying to salt the popcorn in a cup/bag though. Thoughts?

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I forgot to add too that the warmer plate in the bottom gets VERY hot. I tested it with my fingertips after having it on for a while and it burned my fingers.

Overall, this machine is a great value and serves my needs perfectly. Definitely recommended.

Strummer

05-08-06, 04:02 PM

Here's a little blurb I PM'd to Netvista:

Hello & congrats on the new popper!

Because you have already invested in a bunch of corn, your first step to good popping is to buy the correct oil needed to do the popping, and some seasoning too. Here's whatcha will need to do it right:

1. Lou Anna coco-butter sticks. This will be your popping oil, and is what all good poppers use - coconut butter. Accept no substitute. They are available at Smart N Final for really cheap. They look like sticks of butter but need no refrigeration. I keep mine in a ziplock baggie in the storage compartment.

2. Flavacol seasoning. Also available at Smart N Final. This is the same seasoning used by movie theaters. It adds both salty and buttery taste.

So when you get the stuff and are ready to pop here's what you can do for the best results:

1. Turn on popper and let it get hot for about 1-2 minutes.

2. Add the correct size chunk of coco-butter and let it melt. (the bars are marked with lines that are the perfect amount needed for each batch)

3. When the coco-butter has melted, use the measuring cup that came with the machine to add a level scoop of corn.

4. At the same time add about 2/3 tablespoon of Flavacol using that little measuing cup that also came with the machine. (adjust to your personal taste).

5. Done.

6. Let it pop until you cant hear any new kernals popping for about 10-15 seconds.

7. Turn off the popper and dump.

8. Let the popcorn sit for about 5-10 minutes if you can! When first popped the corn will have a very high humidity due to the steam involved, and it will get more crunchy after you let it dry out for a few minutes.

9. Toss it in a bucket, add your buttery topping to taste and enjoy!

It's a great unit that has served our family well. Now when we have parties people will actually call ahead and demand that we are running the popper!

Good Luck!

IrmoGamecoq

05-09-06, 07:23 AM

Thanks for posting that, Strummer...that's helpful to me too. I'll see if I can find those products to try out.

We bought some orville redenbacher "popping & flavoring" oil and used that last night. It tasted better than the veggie oil we used in the first batch, and as a topping, it was very similar to what we've had in the theatre.

We also bought a jar of "coconut oil' as well, but haven't tried it yet. It's a solid though, kind of like crisco or lard. I guess we'll just scoop out what we need of that.

We were able to find both at Wal-mart.

richh

05-09-06, 02:55 PM

Strummer

05-09-06, 03:59 PM

some popcorn popper questions...

i see that the poppers are sized by the number of oz. of popcorn they use per batch. so how much popcorn is 4 oz? i have a family of four and wonder if this machine is too big, too small or just right. as a gauge of how much we eat, typically two of the microwave oven packs will last us for a movie with a little left over.

on the days when we have company, i assume you can just make several batches in a row and keep them in the warming area. with this costco machine, how many batches will it hold?

It's perfect for our family of 4 (2 little kids). One batch is just right to keep all of us happy for a movie. If you have larger (or more hungry!) kids one batch may be just a little short.

4 oz amounts to about 2/3 cup of kernals.

When visitors are over we just make 2 or more batches. I recently had a party and made 4 batches one right after the other and the holding tray was about 1/2 full. It will really make alot of popcorn if you need it.

ND23

05-09-06, 04:28 PM

Are the coupons you are referring too ones that are handed out at the door, or do you mean you were mailed a booklet? When we joined we caught the tail end of the last booklet, but haven't been mailed any new one. Just curious... Thanks.

Dave

Dave, no coupon necessary. In the most recent coupon booklet mailed to the homes of Costco members, there was a section at the back of the booklet advertising deals on items found on costco.com. The $50 reduction is mentioned there, and is available with an online order, no coupon necessary.

ND

richh

05-09-06, 04:56 PM

It's perfect for our family of 4 (2 little kids). One batch is just right to keep all of us happy for a movie. If you have larger (or more hungry!) kids one batch may be just a little short.

4 oz amounts to about 2/3 cup of kernals.

When visitors are over we just make 2 or more batches. I recently had a party and made 4 batches one right after the other and the holding tray was about 1/2 full. It will really make alot of popcorn if you need it.

great, sounds like a winner to me. plus you can't go wrong with the costco return policy.

dapdrums

05-10-06, 11:14 AM

In prep for the 12th, I've called a few NJ Costco's in NJ. All tell me that the only way to get the machine is online. Any stores that have them in stock are because they were returned. That doesn't sound right! But, what really erks me is that I don't get mailed coupon flyers ever! Then when I'm at the store, they resist giving them out because they are told they are for new customers. For those of you who get mailings are you all exec members or just normal members like me?

dslunceford

05-10-06, 12:05 PM

Hmm....I wonder if they would credit me the difference in price?

Was mentioned that they may make me return the old one instead of just crediting the difference. If they do that, I noticed they've started to offer this in black in addition to red; might just order the black...

Has anyone else purchased the black version and like the look? http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11107856&whse=&topnav=&browse=&s=1

Strummer

05-10-06, 01:45 PM

Was mentioned that they may make me return the old one instead of just crediting the difference. If they do that, I noticed they've started to offer this in black in addition to red; might just order the black...

Has anyone else purchased the black version and like the look? http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11107856&whse=&topnav=&browse=&s=1

Nice! I would have ordered it in black. Less nostalgia, but would have blended into our family room better :)

IrmoGamecoq

05-10-06, 02:03 PM

dapdrums

05-10-06, 03:08 PM

Quality control would suggest salting each piece individually to obtain equal salt to corn ratio :)

Actually, the university I work at has a popcorn machine and salts it inside. The machine gets used hard and has been in-use for years. It still looks brand-spankin new and although they take care of it, they aren't cleaning it like Martha Steward each night.

IrmoGamecoq

05-10-06, 03:30 PM

dapdrums - Cool, that's exactly the kind of info I was looking for. If it ain't rusting on a high-use machine like that, I think I'll be just fine. :)

FWIW, I'd imagine it's best to salt right away while the popcorn is still moist/chewy. The salt will stick better that way.

05-10-06, 07:10 PM

Has anyone purchased or had any experience with this "Metropolitan" popper?

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11120308&whse=&topnav=&browse=

It looks beautiful...

I already own a machine and I'm thinking of purchasing this model.

Any feedback would be appreciated. -JD

JasonBrown

05-10-06, 10:55 PM

The metal door on my storage box doesn't "catch" on the magnet block on the inside, but the build quality other than that was first rate. Took about 45 minutes to put together, even if I did only manage to get 3 of the 4 bolts inserted that keeps the storage box attached to the legs :)

I'm gonna glue one of the leftover metal washers to the inside of the swining storage door so that it catches better and will hopefully stay shut.

IrmoGamecoq

05-11-06, 07:46 AM

Took about 45 minutes to put together, even if I did only manage to get 3 of the 4 bolts inserted that keeps the storage box attached to the legs :)

That's funny because I had exactly the same problem. It was just too much of an angle for the bolt to catch onto the threads. It was still sturdy enough so I stopped trying. :)

JasonBrown

05-11-06, 08:57 AM

That's funny because I had exactly the same problem. It was just too much of an angle for the bolt to catch onto the threads. It was still sturdy enough so I stopped trying. :)

Went thru the exact same process. At some point I just said "Screw it" and went along my merry way.

Strummer

05-11-06, 03:12 PM

Hey guys - I asked this earlier but didn't get a response.

Is it okay to salt the popcorn in the holder itself? I've seen movie theatres do this, but just wondering if this is safe with this popper since the salt may speed the onset of corrosion/rust with the metal inside. Unless it's non-corrosive material, like aluminum. Just don't know either way.

Do y'all salt the corn while it's still inside?

We use the Flavacol seasoning in the popper while it's cooking and let me tell you it can be PLENTY salty. Actually needed to cut back to 2/3 teaspoon full for our liking. No need to add salt to the popped corn at all.

IrmoGamecoq

05-11-06, 03:46 PM

We use the Flavacol seasoning in the popper while it's cooking and let me tell you it can be PLENTY salty. Actually needed to cut back to 2/3 teaspoon full for our liking. No need to add salt to the popped corn at all.

That's the stuff that makes it come out yellow, right?

I don't think I can find that locally...

Strummer

05-11-06, 04:57 PM

Kamull

05-11-06, 05:25 PM

I've been reading your thread and thinking about purchasing a popper to complete my HT room.

I was wondering if there is a huge difference between the quality and function of this CCP-509 and one of the "commercial" paragon or gold medal poppers. Are owners of the 509 satisfied with their purchase? The price difference certainly makes it attractive and honestly I like the appearance better than most of the commercial poppers.

Has anyone been using 6oz. packs of popcorn with the 4oz popper? Are there many old maids??

One last question. I am waiting to check out the sale at Costco tommorrow. Does anyone know if a costco membership is required for purchasing the popper??

Thanks!!

netvista

05-11-06, 07:40 PM

get it from amazon
269.95 free shipping and sign up using amazon credit card and get an extra $30.00 off
the nostalgia is great and look goo too

Kamull

05-11-06, 10:46 PM

Just placed my order at costco for the black Nostalgia popper!!! Great sale price-can't wait to get poppin'!!

pcdoctor

05-12-06, 04:18 AM

I like the classic red poppers.

richh

05-12-06, 07:35 AM

just noticed the online version comes with 12 packs of popcorn. does anyone know if the store versions also come with the free popcorn kit?

IrmoGamecoq

05-12-06, 07:56 AM

http://www.popcornsupply.com/ProdImages/lg_2045.jpg

Not really yellow that I have noticed.

No Smart N Final near you? Try ordering online. It's cheap and light to ship. A 1 quart sized container of Flavacol sells for about $2 near me.

Here's a link I found to order some:

Flavacol @ Popcorn Supply Company (http://www.popcornsupply.com/Scripts/prodView.asp?idProduct=18531)

Nope, never heard of Smart N Final except in this forum. Is it a popcorn-only type of store?

We have a local snack supply shop that's known for their popcorn and related things. I may swing by there at lunch and see what they've got.

Thanks for the link though, if going local doesn't work out.

IrmoGamecoq

05-12-06, 03:29 PM

Picked up some Flavacol at the above-referenced store at lunch. $3.10 a carton. Not as cheap as online, but I'd have to order a lot to offset shipping costs.

FWIW, they have a lot of popcorn poppers, ranging from a 4oz model like our CCP509 ($520+ though) to much larger commercial poppers.

Strummer

05-12-06, 04:05 PM

Great! And just in time for the weekend. Enjoy :)

netvista

05-12-06, 10:26 PM

Popcorn: Oil in a Day’s Work

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The poor coconut. It may taste delicious, but an astonishing 86 percent of its oil is saturated, the kind that raises cholesterol (lard is "only" 38 percent saturated). Yet oil processors told us that roughly seven out of every ten movie theaters still pop in it (in May 1994, when the survey was originally done).

"There are a lot of misconceptions about coconut oil," says Teresa Waller of United Artists, the largest chain. "Not a lot goes on the popcorn." Oh yeah? So why did the smallest servings we found (a kid-size at Cineplex Odeon or a small bag at AMC) contain 20 grams of fat, 14 of them saturated? That’s close to three-quarters of your sat fat limit for an entire day.

A large popcorn had about 80 grams of fat, more than 50 of them saturated. That’s almost three day’s worth of sat fat, or what you’d get from six Big Macs. And that’s if you skip the "butter." Even though the topping is probably butterless, its partially hydrogenated soybean oil adds both saturated and trans fat. Trans is an unsaturated fat that raises cholesterol, perhaps as much as sat fat does.

Succumb to the "butter" on your large popcorn and you’ll boost the fat to close to 130 grams (no kidding). Worse yet, the cholesterol raising fat soars to almost four day’s worth. But what’s another two Big Macs when you’re already up to six?

And here’s the real killer: the popcorn you buy could be worse. According to the lab report, the samples we collected were only 70 percent saturated coconut oil is 86 percent. (Some theaters in our sample might have used some corn oil, although they denied it.)

Canola Popcorn: Full Of It
"Now Popping with Canola Oil. Low in Saturated Fats. No Cholesterol." The sign at the Multiplex cinema in Northern Virginia is pretty impressive.
Up to a quarter of all theaters use "healthier" canola oil. Canola may be lower in saturated fat, but we gagged when we saw how much cholesterol-raising trans fat it had. Why so much?

Because the multiplex banner is wrong. Theaters are popping in partially hydrogenated canola shortening, not canola oil. Oils have no trans. Shortenings -- even liquid ones -- are usually full of it.

When popcorn is popped in canola shortening, about 30 percent of its fat is cholesterol raising (sat fat plus trans). That’s not as good as canola oil’s seven percent, but it sure beats you-know-what.

Your Serve
Who eats so much popcorn? That’s what we’d like to know. The FDA says that the average serving of popcorn is three cups. Then how come even a kid-size order has almost twice that much? How much fat, saturated fat, etc., you get is a matter for you, your calculator ... and your conscience.

Popping Good
What to do?
Bring your own air-popped popcorn. Some theaters told as that they won’t make a fuss if you don’t show it to anybody.

Ask the manager to switch to air-popped popcorn. If the theater insists on using oil, ask that it be liquid corn oil. Unlike most other oils including canola, corn doesn’t have to be hydrogenated (so it contains no trans fat).

Ask for no salt. If they’ll do it, you’ll save from 207 mg (Cineplex Odeon kids) to 378 mg (AMC large bag) and maybe even avoid some artificial colorings.

How We Got Our Numbers
We collected popcorn samples in 12 theaters from six chains in San Francisco, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. We combined them into three "composites" (coconut oil, coconut oil with topping, and canola shortening), and sent the composites to an independent laboratory to be analyzed for calories, sodium, etc. Then we measured how much popcorn we were served when we ordered each size at the three largest chains. Using the lab’s analyses of our composites, we calculated how much fat, etc., you’d get in each size of each theater’s popcorn.
Keep in mind that our numbers may not reflect precisely what you get on any given day at your local theater. First, there’s the imprecise human who fills your container sometimes below the brim, sometimes overflowing. Ditto for the topping. Some theater staff are more generous (thanks a lot!). And some chains, like AMC, use different sets of containers at different theaters. So the "large" listed here may not correspond to the "large" at your local AMC theater. The number of cups listed in our chart is especially imprecise. Why? We assumed that a cup of popcorn always holds the same number of kernels. In fact, it doesn’t. Sometimes the kernels are fluffy, so fewer fit into a cup. Other times when your portion comes from the bottom of the bin, for example, the kernels are packed more closely, and more fit into a cup.

So, our numbers aren’t perfect. But they’re the best around.

Notes: Analyses done at SGS Control Services, Inc. (Deer Park, Texas). The use of information from this article for commercial purposes is prohibited without written permission from CSPI.

The maximum amount (Daily Value) of total fat in a 2,000-calorie diet is 65 grams. The maximum amount of saturated fat is 20 grams. Theaters sell popcorn in multi-cup bags or buckets (a cup is a handful or two).

Juliann Goldman coordinated the food testing. Ingrid VanTuinen and interns Maxine Anderson, Anne Didato, and Michelle Werkstell helped compile the information for this article.

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netvista

05-12-06, 10:52 PM

samsclub
4 oz popcorn kit
http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?catg=535&item=320221&prDeTab=2#A

Marcelman

05-13-06, 02:17 PM

I noticed on the models being sold at Costco, there are three switches on the unit. They appear to be 1 for the light, 1 for the stirrer, and 1 for the heat to the pan. Does anyone know if this is in response (a possible improvement) to the stirrer problem. The old models, and possibly still the ones at Costcocom, only have 2 switches. ( light and heat/stirrer)

IrmoGamecoq

05-15-06, 08:47 AM

What's up with Netvista throwing a wet blanket on our popcorn talk? :(

I popped a batch with coconut oil, flavacol, and some Orville Redenbacher butter topping this weekend and it was DEE-licious. :D

dapdrums

05-15-06, 10:44 AM

dapdrums

05-15-06, 11:01 AM

For all who read the above post and now are bummed out, feeling guilty about treating ourselves to popcorn maker, there is overwhelmingly more studies that show coconut oil is a better option then most oils. ...I mean really if you are going to take hot air popcorn to your local theater you should probably check ebay for Travolta's "Bubble Boy" tent and take that to the theater too. The seats and floors in most theaters are more of a health hazard then the freakin' popcorn. Here is just one decent study about coconut oil. Its quite long but easy enough to understand. A few 4 oz bags a week isn't going to send you to your grave any earlier. And, if it does... well Costco's sells coffins too! :)

The link http://www.heall.com/body/healthupdates/food/coconutoil.html

tony123

05-15-06, 11:30 AM

IrmoGamecoq

05-15-06, 11:38 AM

Just ordered through Amazon. $244 delivered.

Now I need to find the Flav-o-cal locally. As well as coconut oil!!!

Irmo, you and I have been crossing paths quite a bit lately (component rack, bar, popcorn popper). I'm going to have to stay away from your posts, or I'll be broke! :)

Yeah, I noticed that too. :)

Glad to hear you got the same deal on the popper from Amazon. I think you'll be pleased.

As for Flavacol, the "local" place I mentioned above is Cromers. Next time you're down in Cola-town, swing by and pick some up.

tlogan6797

05-15-06, 03:40 PM

There is no "costco" store model vs. a "costco.com" model. Popcorn makers are only sold online at Costco.com. If you see on in a store it is a return that someone bought ONLINE and returned to the store. I've called their HQ and spoke to an employee about this. He assured me that no Costco anywhere stocks popcorn makers, but they will resell a returned maker if it was returned for non defect reasons.

Well, then there must have been about 6 or 8 returned to my local costco, in perfectly sealed boxes, shipped with no damage whatsoever. When I bought mine three weeks ago, there was a display of one fully asssembled unit and six or eight in boxes ready to be picked up. ALL of them were in perfectly sealed (with strapping around it), non-damaged boxes. I can't believe that THAT many would have been shipped and returned to the same store with no visible damage. They actually told me the same thing when I ordered my projector online, but it took longer to ship than I wanted, so I went to the store and low and behold they had a whole pallet load in perfect condition ready for purchase. So I bought one and when I finally got my online order, I took IT back to the store for refund. So OK, I returned ONE, but I can't believe they got a WHOLE PALLET LOAD returned.

I don't doubt that that was what you were told, but I think someone at costco is mis-informed.

Tom

Marcelman

05-15-06, 10:51 PM

There is no "costco" store model vs. a "costcocom" model. Popcorn makers are only sold online at Costcocom. If you see on in a store it is a return that someone bought ONLINE and returned to the store. I've called their HQ and spoke to an employee about this. He assured me that no Costco anywhere stocks popcorn makers, but they will resell a returned maker if it was returned for non defect reasons.

The model at Costco looks very similar to the Helman unit, but is being sold under a different name and model number for $249.00. The only difference I can see is this one has a set of double doors in back of unit to gain access to the kettle and has the 3 switches. It looks as though, whoever is manufacturing the Helman machine is also making this one. Customer service at Helman stated that they have a 3 switch unit coming out soon and wasn't aware of any on the street yet. The Costco store carrying this model is in Springdale, OH.

Mark Booth

05-16-06, 02:16 AM

There is no "costco" store model vs. a "costco.com" model. Popcorn makers are only sold online at Costco.com. If you see on in a store it is a return that someone bought ONLINE and returned to the store. I've called their HQ and spoke to an employee about this. He assured me that no Costco anywhere stocks popcorn makers, but they will resell a returned maker if it was returned for non defect reasons.

That would be news to my local Costco. But, taking the HQ at their word, it means that about 25 people all returned ccp509's all at the same time to the La Mesa, Ca Costco because that's how many they had in stock on an end display for $250 about a week ago. And only one person returned one without a box because it was on display... the rest were all in boxes. Folks apparently returned them unopened because the boxes were all sealed. And, best of all, the one person that returned the opened one didn't bother to use it because it was like brand new.

Maybe that person cleaned up the opened one really really well?

Mark

dapdrums

05-16-06, 07:20 AM

That would be news to my local Costco. But, taking the HQ at their word, it means that about 25 people all returned ccp509's all at the same time to the La Mesa, Ca Costco because that's how many they had in stock on an end display for $250 about a week ago. And only one person returned one without a box because it was on display... the rest were all in boxes. Folks apparently returned them unopened because the boxes were all sealed. And, best of all, the one person that returned the opened one didn't bother to use it because it was like brand new.

Maybe that person cleaned up the opened one really really well?

Mark

Who knows then! I called all the costco's in NJ, shopping capital of the world, and, in addition to the gentleman at Costco HQ telling me .com orders only, all the people at each NJ store said the same thing. Perhaps market research shows many people in CA are buying these, so the ship some there. I wish I know about the La Mesa store, for I would have called the guy on it. No matter there is no shipping charge so let Costco's come to "me" for a change. The additional point of my earlier post is that there aren't two models, whereby the store has a 3 button version and .com has a 2 button version. I just ordered mine, so I'll way in with a review once I have it set up. Can't wait.

IrmoGamecoq

05-16-06, 07:50 AM

I did a thorough cleaning of my popper last night using the "boiling water" method suggested in the owner's manual. Just poured about 16oz of water in the kettle, turned it on, and proceeded to sweep-out/wipe-down the interior while the water was heating up.

After about 3-4 minutes, the water inside the popper was boiling, so I dumped it out and then wiped out the interior with a wet sponge.

Couldn't be easier.

Just thought I'd post this since I saw some comments about how hard these poppers are to keep clean, which was absolutely not the case.

dapdrums

05-16-06, 07:59 AM

SHHHHHHH. If word gets out that the popcorn maker also brews hot tea, they will raise the price. :)

...thanks for the post, good info!

Marcelman

05-16-06, 12:24 PM

IrmoGamecoq

05-16-06, 12:30 PM

SHHHHHHH. If word gets out that the popcorn maker also brews hot tea, they will raise the price. :)

Mmmmmmm...yummy popcorn-husk tea!

dapdrums

05-16-06, 02:18 PM

Dapdrums,

Apparently there are two models available at Costco. The model being carried here locally in the Cincinnati area is manufactured by "Maxi-Matic" Model # EPM-400. It is a 3 switch unit that looks almost identical to " Helman Nostalgia Electric"
unit. Color scheme and everything else is the same. My guess is, this is the new model that Helman will be coming out with.

Well by the amount of people checking-in, I believe that many Costco's stock th popper and that I was ill-informed. The Maxi-Matic Model sure looks nicer, but the picture on Costco's sight looks like the Helman (2 switch) model. At your Costco's were the prices the same ($250)? The Maxi seems like it is more expensive and, perhaps, closer to the fun-pop model sold elsewhere.

tlogan6797

05-16-06, 02:49 PM

At your Costco's were the prices the same ($250)?

Sterling, VA store....$249, 3 switch

Marcelman

05-16-06, 04:04 PM

Well by the amount of people checking-in, I believe that many Costco's stock th popper and that I was ill-informed. The Maxi-Matic Model sure looks nicer, but the picture on Costco's sight looks like the Helman (2 switch) model. At your Costco's were the prices the same ($250)? The Maxi seems like it is more expensive and, perhaps, closer to the fun-pop model sold elsewhere.

Dapdrums,

I have the CCP-509 (still in the box, waiting on my basement to be finished). The two models are almost identical. A few of the components appear to be slightly cheaper on the Maxi-matic. It has both a handle and tray attached to unit that are made out of a light gauge gold plated steel. Double acrylic doors for access to popcorn and the 3 switches for (1) warming tray/light, (2)stirrer and (3)kettle warmer, appear to be the only difference. Overall, it appears the current Helman Nostalgia poppers are an upgrade. I'm sure that the same company is manufacturing both units to their customers specs. Check it out at www.maxi-matic.com/category.asp?CatID=141. The owners manual is also on the website.

My concern through all this was all the posts I have been reading about the stirrer problem. When seeing the 3rd switch for the stirrer, I presumed this was in response to that problem. I contacted the Helman Co. customer service and asked this question before I even realized the unit at Costco was not the CCP-509. I was informed that they are coming out with a unit in the future that will include that "3rd switch". When I asked if this was in direct response to the stirrer problem, he was pretty vague and said that what most people are doing is waiting too long to dump the popcorn. That you need to dump it while it's popping. (whatever).

And yes, the price at Costco is $249.00

dapdrums

05-17-06, 08:01 AM

Dapdrums,

I have the CCP-509 (still in the box, waiting on my basement to be finished). The two models are almost identical. A few of the components appear to be slightly cheaper on the Maxi-matic. It has both a handle and tray attached to unit that are made out of a light gauge gold plated steel. Double acrylic doors for access to popcorn and the 3 switches for (1) warming tray/light, (2)stirrer and (3)kettle warmer, appear to be the only difference. Overall, it appears the current Helman Nostalgia poppers are an upgrade. I'm sure that the same company is manufacturing both units to their customers specs. Check it out at www.maxi-matic.com/category.asp?CatID=141. The owners manual is also on the website.

My concern through all this was all the posts I have been reading about the stirrer problem. When seeing the 3rd switch for the stirrer, I presumed this was in response to that problem. I contacted the Helman Co. customer service and asked this question before I even realized the unit at Costco was not the CCP-509. I was informed that they are coming out with a unit in the future that will include that "3rd switch". When I asked if this was in direct response to the stirrer problem, he was pretty vague and said that what most people are doing is waiting too long to dump the popcorn. That you need to dump it while it's popping. (whatever).

And yes, the price at Costco is $249.00

Sorry... But I'm still confused
Are you saying that the ccp509 is the Maxi or the Helman model?

richh

05-17-06, 09:32 AM

Popper at costco.com is the Helman CCP509

link to helman (http://www.helmangroup.com/nostalgia/default.asp?p=CCP509)

Popper at the costco stores is the Maximatic

link to maximatic (http://www.maxi-matic.com/productDetail.asp?ProdID=268)

For what it's worth, along with the cosmetic differences pointed out earlier (handle bar on one, double doors vs single, three switches vs two), I found the power consumption to be different; 860 watts for the Maximatic and 640 watts for the Helman.

So it does appear that the two models are definitely different. However, I think both Helman and Maxi-matic are both distributors, so they both could be buying them from the same manufacturer. What worries me a little is most of the past history on these forums (both good and bad) is on the Helman model, while I purchased the Maximatic model.

Sorry... But I'm still confused
Are you saying that the ccp509 is the Maxi or the Helman model?

dapdrums

05-17-06, 09:50 AM

Thanks Richh:

Hmmm... looks like the ccp509 has mountain bike tires :p

Interestingly enough, on costco's website,look at the ccp509 popper pictures. There are 2 pictures that you can view. Notice how the top of the popper is different on each picture. The main picture (with the girl by it) has a v-shape top, whereas, the picture with the family outdoors has a different top. Both models seem to have two buttons though.

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11034341&whse=&topnav=&browse=&s=1&bp=search&search=popcorn&N=0&Ntt=popcorn&img=0
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11034341&whse=&topnav=&browse=&s=1&bp=search&search=popcorn&N=0&Ntt=popcorn&img=1

richh

05-17-06, 10:37 AM

Just assemble my Maxi-matic model and noticed one more difference. From the pics of the stirrer on page one of the thread, it looks like the Helman has the rod bent up and back down (upside down "U") forming the paddle. The Maximatic has a separate flat piece of metal welded to the rod to form the paddle.

dapdrums

05-17-06, 11:12 AM

So do you conclude that the Maxi stirrer is a better design?

Atwater27

05-17-06, 11:51 AM

My Costco in St Louis Park MN had about 10 of them 2 weeks ago and when I was there last weekend they had 2 left. Has anyone seen them at Sams Club? Online they are $50 cheaper but if you have to order online they charge like $80 :mad:

richh

05-17-06, 03:14 PM

So do you conclude that the Maxi stirrer is a better design?

don't know that it's better or worse, just noting a difference :)

maybe someone who has the Helman and knows the hows and whys of the jamming problem can comment.

need too find some 4 oz packs...

tony123

05-17-06, 09:46 PM

I just received mine today.

I haven't used it yet, but can make a few comments regarding initial impressions. I was a little dissappointed in the quality. The best way to describe it is that it is built for residential use. I don't think it would last 6 months in a commercial application. I don't think it is fair to judge it on that criteria though, as it is not priced like the commercial poppers.

So what am I saying? It seems to be a good value for the price, but sometimes spending an extra 30-40% gets you a product that lasts 5 times as long. I think that is the case here.

The metal for the basic structure seems to be of a heavy enough gauge, but the metal in the tray, door, etc. feels almost like aluminum foil. Again, with carefull use this won't be a concern, but with kids I won't be surprised if something ends up bent or dented.

Also, I'm curious to see how much popcorn it will hold. Every so often I have 10+ people over. Again, not the machines fault.

Will post again when we use it. Probably Friday night. :)

richh

05-17-06, 11:15 PM

was your's the online version? if so, i feel a little better. i bought the version at the store and had the same thoughts as you regarding the overall quality. i was starting to wonder if the online version was perhaps a better product.

I just received mine today.

I haven't used it yet, but can make a few comments regarding initial impressions. I was a little dissappointed in the quality. The best way to describe it is that it is built for residential use. I don't think it would last 6 months in a commercial application. I don't think it is fair to judge it on that criteria though, as it is not priced like the commercial poppers.

So what am I saying? It seems to be a good value for the price, but sometimes spending an extra 30-40% gets you a product that lasts 5 times as long. I think that is the case here.

The metal for the basic structure seems to be of a heavy enough gauge, but the metal in the tray, door, etc. feels almost like aluminum foil. Again, with carefull use this won't be a concern, but with kids I won't be surprised if something ends up bent or dented.

Also, I'm curious to see how much popcorn it will hold. Every so often I have 10+ people over. Again, not the machines fault.

Will post again when we use it. Probably Friday night. :)

tony123

05-18-06, 07:30 AM

Online from Amazon.

IrmoGamecoq

05-18-06, 08:08 AM

Tony - The 4oz model that I looked at at Cromers (supposedly for "commercial use" too) had the same build quality as mine/yours. And, it was listed at $549 at their store, 200+% more than what we paid for the CCP-509. The only difference I noted was metal conduit surrounding the power cord that went to the popper, and that could be added easily enough (not sure why that's such a great benefit however).

I agree with you though, this popper wouldn't be suitable for true "commercial use."

As for capacity, one batch makes more than enough popcorn for 2 people, but only barely covers the bottom of the holder. I'd imagine the holder could easily contain 5 batches, which would certainly be enough for 10+ people.

Let us know your thoughts once you've tried it out.

tony123

05-18-06, 01:20 PM

As for capacity, one batch makes more than enough popcorn for 2 people, but only barely covers the bottom of the holder. I'd imagine the holder could easily contain 5 batches, which would certainly be enough for 10+ people.

Let us know your thoughts once you've tried it out.

That's good news. Will post comments after we use it.

I'm trying to find a source for the flavocol and cocobutter sticks. I've found them online, but shipping kills you. Cromers in Columbia seems to be the closest to me, and that an hour or more away.

IrmoGamecoq

05-18-06, 02:25 PM

Check the Spartanburg/Greenville yellowpages under "popcorn." That's what Cromers is listed under here in Cola.

tony123

05-18-06, 02:38 PM

Irmo, our yellow pages listed Cromers as the only one.

I went ahead and called them and placed an order. Don't know what I'm doing exactly, so I just took a guess at quantities, etc.

I got 12.5 pound bag of corn. 2 of the flavocol cartons and 4 pounds of the coconut oil bars. The lady at Cromers was very helpful, and seemed to think this would be about a years worth for typical home use. Can someone here comment how long these quantities might last? I expect to average 3 -4oz pops a week.

She also suggested to throw out the first pop from a machine.

I should have it all by Tuesday.

dapdrums

05-18-06, 02:46 PM

She also suggested to throw out the first pop from a machine.

Now that is a salesperson!!!!!!!!!!
;)

IrmoGamecoq

05-18-06, 03:29 PM

Tony - I'm no expert but the "flavacol" looks just like colored "popcorn salt" to me. If you can find that somewhere else, you could get away with it while you're waiting for the real thing.

Also, I popped a few batches with plain ol' vegetable oil in my popper, salting after the fact. It was purty durn good...but I had to admit the flavacol/coconut-oil combination was the best.

Anyway, my point is, don't be afraid to try it out this weekend with what you can find locally.

P.S. I expect my 1 flavacol carton to last me a long time. IIRC, each 4oz batch only calls for a 1/4 tbs of Flavacol. That's a very small portion of what's in that carton.

Kamull

05-19-06, 12:29 AM

I just received my popper from costco.com today. I also was a bit disappointed in the flimsy feel to some of the metal components but for the price I am happy overall so far.

I tried popping my first batch tonight using 6oz megapop packs. I did have enough old maids to just about cover the bottom of the drawer. I'm not sure if that is related to using the 6oz pack or if I should have let it pop a few seconds longer. Didn't want to burn anything!!! I was able to completely fill 5 plastic "scoop" style buckets that are about 8 inches tall. Sorry, I do not know the capacity of the buckets-maybe 1oz each???

The popcorn most definately tasted like true theater popcorn. I need to try letting it "dry out" a bit longer before serving though.

I wiped the inside of the popper out with warm water and a microfiber cloth. While the popper itself looks pretty clean I am not satisfied with the glass sides or plexiglass door- they still feel oily. I am afraid to try windex, I don't want permanantly cloudy sides!!! How can I make this shine since it is on display as well as being functional???

IrmoGamecoq

05-19-06, 07:40 AM

Kamull - It should be okay on the glass, but definitely don't use windex on the plexi.

I think the manual has a short section on cleaning the inside of the popper.

tony123

05-19-06, 07:58 AM

If the plexi is such a pain for cleaning, you could replace the doors with glass for about $15. Or, if you happen to get windex on the plexi its not the end of the world. You can get new plexi at Lowe's or HD for about the same cost.

I still haven't popped, but will tonight!

By the way, I had put mine together backwards so I had to take the storage box and flip it around on the legs. Well, I finally got all four of those stinking bolts in.

A suggestion to anyone putting one together, run the bolts through the threads in the legs and take them back out again. Then put the box on and assemble. I think the machining on the threading is not all that great, and causing people headaches. Doing this process should help 'clean' them out. :)

IrmoGamecoq

05-19-06, 09:13 AM

That's a good tip, Tony. I'll give that a try.

I was like the earlier poster and just figured 3 of the 4 would have to be good enough. :D

As for cleaning, the only thing that didn't clean up well was the pull-out tray beneath the plexi-door. Like anything stainless, it's got fingerprints galore. A microfiber cloth will fix that though.

tony123

05-19-06, 10:37 PM

I used the popper tonight for the first time.

I was shocked at how little oil you should use. I had been using 5-6 times that much cooking corn on the stove!!!

The motor bogged down slightly when loaded, but didn't jam at all.

I got a little bit of smoke. Is this just because of the first use, or is it typical?

The popcorn was much dryer and crispier than what I do on the stove.

I used a teaspoon of ActII popcorn salt from Sam's and it was way too much for our taste.

I also realize that I eat way more popcorn than most people. All the advice that a 4oz machine will feed 2-3 people is not so in our household. I eat 4oz. by myself! :) I need to cut back though, so this is a good way to do that. :) If we have another couple over, I could easily see popping 3 batches for 4 people.

Took the pot out and washed it. I wish the lid would come off, my big hands have a hard time getting in there. If you know you're going to pop a few times on a weekend, will you clean after every use? or just at the end of a weekend? or do you go even longer between cleanings?

The cool factor was pretty high!!! It added much ambience to the room.

I'll give a taste impression when I get the coconut oil and flavocol. :)

Kamull

05-20-06, 01:01 PM

Tony,

I would think it is best to clean after each use. Yesterday was the second day since I received my popper. My youngest son had a friend over after school and I popped them some corn. Great!!

I knew my older son was having some friends over for a movie after dinner and I would be making some more so I just left the warmer light on and fiqured I pop another batch or two after dinner. Well the first batch jammed. It seems like the inside of the kettle was a little "sticky" from the residue of my earlier batch. I cleaned out the kettle and made another batch with no problem. After this experience, I will definately only use the popper after cleaning it unless I made 2 -3 batches at once (not cooling down then heating up).

BTW, I did see tubs of Lou Ana at Walmart yesterday for $3.00. They were about the size of a jar of mayo. I'm thinking about trying it after I finish my pre-packs! I just need to order some Flavacol from somewhere.

Cheers!
Kari

dapdrums

05-21-06, 08:56 PM

The Costco's deal comes with 12 pre-paks. Is it coconut oil in the paks or is it a different type of oil? Also, from cold turn on to ready to eat ... how long are we talking?

tony123

05-22-06, 10:25 AM

dapdrums, I would guess from cold to corn to be about 6 minutes. second batch in 3 minutes.

I tried to put a little extra in the popper this weekend, and got my first jam.

I still can't get over how little oil you need! I feel like I'm eating health food now. :)

IrmoGamecoq

05-22-06, 10:40 AM

Well guys, so much for the jam-free popping. Mine is jamming on every batch now. It only started after I cleaned it for the first time. Kind of a pain having to empty the popper manually and having to waste all those kernals that come out in the process. Also concerned about burning the motor up while it's jammed too.

Maybe I'll opt for the "bent stirrer" method and see if that helps.

BTW, I did see tubs of Lou Ana at Walmart yesterday for $3.00. They were about the size of a jar of mayo.

That's what I use. The measuring spoon provided makes a pretty good scooper. It's just a @#$% getting it back out. I use a plastic spoon for now, but it's messy. Need to figure something else out...someone above suggested the kind of ice cream scooper with the lever for clearing out the scoop part...that might work, but I'd have to guesstimate the amt of oil since a normal scooper holds 2-3 times more than what my measuring spoon does.

dapdrums

05-22-06, 10:45 AM

Ha... between the popper heat and the lamp heat from the projector, my basement is going to feel like Three Mile Island during a nuclear accident.

...So if it takes such little oil what is all the debate over coconut oil vs. healthier oil?

dapdrums

05-22-06, 10:51 AM

The measuring spoon provided makes a pretty good scooper. It's just a @#$% getting it back out. I use a plastic spoon for now, but it's messy. Need to figure something else out...someone above suggested the kind of ice cream scooper with the lever for clearing out the scoop part...that might work

You would think Pampered Chef would make some overprices gizmo that fit this need!

IrmoGamecoq

05-22-06, 10:57 AM

You would think Pampered Chef would make some overprices gizmo that fit this need!

Actually, I think they do!

I just realized that a melon scooper would be the perfect thing for this. I think they come with the spring-lever for release too. That's definitely closer to the size I/we need too.

The best part: I'm almost positive my wife already has one of these.

richh

05-22-06, 12:03 PM

Actually, I think they do!

I just realized that a melon scooper would be the perfect thing for this. I think they come with the spring-lever for release too. That's definitely closer to the size I/we need too.

The best part: I'm almost positive my wife already has one of these.

there's also cookie dough scoopers that have the same type of release mechanism as the full sized ice cream scoopers.

tony123

05-22-06, 08:31 PM

I got all my supplies from Cromers today. It does appear that 2 quarts of Flavocol will last me several years!!! Oh well....I'm not planning on giving up popcorn anytime soon. :)

I also got the coco-butter sticks. I noticed they are not 100% coconut oil, part soybean.

I went to Walmart tonight and got a jar of the Louann coconut oil from there too. Will try both. The Louann is 100% coconut. Wonder if I'll be able to tell a difference?

I've got a party over hear for Americican Idol finale. This will be my first chance to do several batches at once. I suppose it is just a little bit nerdy when you're looking forward to making popcorn for people. :)

Kamull

05-23-06, 12:03 AM

Tony,

Don't worry about it being a little bit nerdy---nerds rule the world!!!

Have fun!

Cheers!
Kari

IrmoGamecoq

05-23-06, 08:02 AM

I got all my supplies from Cromers today. It does appear that 2 quarts of Flavocol will last me several years!!! Oh well....I'm not planning on giving up popcorn anytime soon. :)

I also got the coco-butter sticks. I noticed they are not 100% coconut oil, part soybean.

I went to Walmart tonight and got a jar of the Louann coconut oil from there too. Will try both. The Louann is 100% coconut. Wonder if I'll be able to tell a difference?

Tell us what you think. I use the Louann for mine, but could easily go by Cromers and get the sticks if you think it's better.

I've got a party over hear for Americican Idol finale. This will be my first chance to do several batches at once. I suppose it is just a little bit nerdy when you're looking forward to making popcorn for people. :)

I'm right there with you! :D

dapdrums

05-23-06, 12:36 PM

Well, UPS showed that my new Costco's popper was delivered so I journeyed home to make sure it made it in my front door. I took a few minutes to unpack it and here are my real-early impressions.

- Box was smashed up a bit, but I've seen worse so I wasn't too bummed at UPS or Costco's.
- One side of the top sheet metal "crown" of the machine was pushed in noticably. It was the the side to the left of the front with the 2 buttons. Sheet metal bends so I figured that if I took out the 6 screws from the lid, I'd be able to massage it back into place. Well the 2 middle screws either (a) wheren't cast correctly, or (b) aren't suppose to come out because they looked like a pre-mature phillips head screw. I was able to unscrew them with a pair of needle nose plyers but it added to the agrevation. Once I had the lid off I did my best to mould the side back into place, it looks better, but still slightly bumpy. Oh well, it is the side that will face the wall so I won't immediately re-box and take back.
- The base needs relatively little assemby. The shelf unit, door, and four sides are already attached. Once again, the flimsy sheet metal has the whole chasis slightly bowed, but it's not like I'm trying to preserve freshness with what I put inside.
- The popcorn pre-packs contain corn, coconut oil (I think), and a flavocol like powder. They are in bags that are not marked so I'm just sort-of assuming that its coconut oil and flavocol.

So...I had to get back to work and will finish the assemble tonight. It looks fairly cheap, but it was cheap so I guess I got what I paid for. My theater isn't going to make it into the pages or "Home Theater" Magazine so perhaps it will fit the total package look better then a $700 unit. I figure the first pop will commence at about 8 pm.

IrmoGamecoq

05-23-06, 12:41 PM

Sorry to hear that Dap. FWIW, my packaging was in terrible shape too, though my popper was undamaged (except for the scratch on the plexi-glass door).

Let us hear how your first pop turns out.

tony123

05-23-06, 01:00 PM

Yeah, sorry to hear about your damage. Like Irmo, my box looked terrible, but no damage to the unit.

I agree with your assesment of the build quality.

Good luck tonight with it.

tlogan6797

05-23-06, 01:18 PM

Dap -

Just a reminder that if you DO take an online purchase back to Costco, they only give you cash. It's just a hassle to not get a credit to your account. When I got my projector, I ordered it online, but it was taking too long to ship. I found them in the store and bought one of those. When the online one finally showed up, I took it back to the store, but all they could give me was cash. So then I'm walking around with a wad of cash and have to make a special trip to the bank.

Good luck,
Tom

IrmoGamecoq

05-23-06, 02:58 PM

Oh yeah, guys...I forgot to mention...

The cart on this machine is definitely for show only. It does a fine job of holding the popper up, and maybe wheeling around on a smooth indoor surface...but don't do anything beyond that.

My wife and I wheeled our popper out to the front yard for a block party over the weekend. It ended up being MUCH easier just to carry the whole unit instead of rolling it.

First of all, it's so top-heavy that you have to keep it nearly level anyway...catching the support legs in the process. If you tip it up too much, you stand the chance of the top unit toppling over.

Second, once I got it back down to the basement, the entire cart assembly had come loose from all the shifting around. The whole thing wobbles now and I now need to retighten all the bolts connecting the legs to the cart.

Lastly, the rubber wheels got pretty scraped up on the driveway. Not a big deal but they don't look as good as they had previously.

I can't imagine using this cart in a commercial capacity...constantly wheeling it in and out of a location. We'll be leaving it where it is from now on...or just carrying the popper portion by itself.

Mark Booth

05-23-06, 04:21 PM

A good rubber/vinyl conditioner will probably make the wheels look like new again. My preferred products are Meguiar's (auto detailing lines). I use their pro line stuff, #40. But they have a consumer line that works just as well. Available at Kragens, Pep Boys, etc.

Mark

dapdrums

05-24-06, 07:46 AM

If you are considering the CCP509 from Costco's here is my full review now that I've assembled and used it for 2 pops.

Bottom Line (and what really matters I suppose)... It makes good popcorn and for a cheap(-er) model it meets my expection in that "I got what I paid for".

Setup:
- Assembly is minimal, but could have been way easier if they just moved the holes down a bit. The holes are all in positions where the average size screw driver has a hard time reaching.
-The cheap flimsy sheetmetal sort of bowes a bit. I had to ben the door to the cabinet a bit to close the gap in the middle.
- Funny enough, the model on the box has mountain bike tires on it, whereas the actual popper comes with almost prop like tires. The look just fine when the popper is assembled but lets just say Lance Armstrong isn't going to be breaking in the steal them!
- The electric cord exits the machine on the shelf side. It not that much in the way, but why did it need to be on that side?

Look:

Disassembled I was somewhat disappointed. Assembled, and in its right place with light on inside the popper and normal dim room lighting in my theater the popper loooks really nice and is sure to get compliments.

Popping:

-Prepaks are relatively easy to pour in.
- 2 pops and no jams yet, perhaps it is because there is more oil in the pre-pak then if you added ingredients yourself.
- LOTS OF UNPOPPED KERNELS. The "old maid" drawer is almost a necessity. I'd say about 1/3 where left unpopped on my first batch. For my second batch I placed a washer on the lid to prevent it from opening an extra few seconds. That seemed to be when a large amount blew out. It might of helped slightly. ANY HOMEMADE SOLUTIONS TO SOLVING THIS PROBLEM ARE APPRECIATED.

Taste:
Simply great. And, since I've tried the pre-pak FunPop at work, I think when I buy a supply of that It will even taste better. And the smell in my theater had me feeling like I was at the Loews Cinema, minus the sticky floor from all the soda that gets spilled at that place.

Clean-up:
Easy! ...Just call the wife :D No seriously... I wiped out the unit with a damp sponge and my wife washed the kettle all in under 5 minutes. Actually it gives me something to do while my projector cools down.

feel free to email me specific questions dave@drumhq.com

tony123

05-24-06, 03:49 PM

Good review Dap. I second everything you said, except, I haven't had more than 5-10 unpopped kernals in any of my batches.

dapdrums

05-24-06, 08:22 PM

how do you prevent the kernels from popping out as the popped ones pop out?

Kamull

05-27-06, 05:28 PM

Good review Dap. I second everything you said, except, I haven't had more than 5-10 unpopped kernals in any of my batches.

Tony,

I also would like to know what you are doing that results in 5-10 unpopped kernals. I am getting LOTS.

I'm using megapop prepacks right now but I plan to buy a tub of Lou Ana's and some Flavacol and try my own prepacks!

richh

05-27-06, 08:02 PM

BTW, I did see tubs of Lou Ana at Walmart yesterday for $3.00. They were about the size of a jar of mayo.

Which aisle are you guys finding the Lou Ana in? I've been to a couple of Walmarts and cannot find it. I asked around and no one seems to know what it is let alone where to find it.

Kamull

05-27-06, 10:26 PM

I found the tubs of Lou Ana in the same aisle as the cooking oils at the local Super Walmart. It is a white tub, I think plastic.

IrmoGamecoq

05-30-06, 08:42 AM

And, it's small too...someone else compared it to a mayonaise jar, and I'd say that's about right.

I don't get many old-maids either...it took 5 batches of popped corn to half-way fill my old-maid drawer.

tony123

05-31-06, 08:19 AM

Tony,

I also would like to know what you are doing that results in 5-10 unpopped kernals. I am getting LOTS.

I'm using megapop prepacks right now but I plan to buy a tub of Lou Ana's and some Flavacol and try my own prepacks!

The only thing I'm intentionally doing is to use about 5-10% less corn. I did this to try and eliminate the jamming problem, but it may also be the reason for less unpopped corn.

richh

05-31-06, 08:32 AM

I found the tubs of Lou Ana in the same aisle as the cooking oils at the local Super Walmart. It is a white tub, I think plastic.

thanks, i guess i need to find a super walmart. i have been looking in the reguar walmarts.

dapdrums

06-08-06, 10:08 AM

how do you prevent the kernels from popping out as the popped ones pop out?

I'm still strugling with the amount of unpopped kernels that blow out of my kettle. The majority seem to lift out earily on - riding of the corn-tails of popped corn escaping the kettle. Isn't everyone experiencing this? I'm using pre-paks, and letting my kettle heat for 4-5 minutes. Then I put the oil in for another minute or two. Till the corn gets in, it has to be screamin' hot. Thanks for any advice and/or MacGiver solutions.

tony123

06-08-06, 11:39 AM

IrmoGamecoq

06-08-06, 11:57 AM

Dap - My procedure is a little closer to Tony's. I heat the kettle for 2-3 minutes, then scoop out the coconut oil (this takes about 15-20 seconds because it's not easy), then add the corn/flavacol together. Like Tony, popping starts 1+ minutes later.

Maybe your oil is getting too hot and corn is popping out before it's had a chance to get stirred around really well?

dapdrums

06-08-06, 12:10 PM

Thanks guys. I do like the 4 batch ...last the weekend idea, as pop and cleanup has added about 20 minutes to my "movie experience". Ha, once the movie is over I can't just plop into bed...I have to clean up!

Tony/Irmo you both have the same model as me right? and you don't get allot of uppopped kernels? Strange... I've actually experiement with longer waits, shorter waits etc... before adding the corn. The only thing I think would help is a deeper kettle for, the hatch door opens, corn blows out and takes some uppopped corn with it.

PS? Can the unpopped stuff be reused or has the water in each piece evaporated?

Kamull

06-08-06, 01:04 PM

dapdrums,

I have the costco ccp-509 and use prepacks. I also experience alot of unpopped kernals. The majority of them fly out of the kettle when the lid raises to let the first pieces of popped corn out.

I heat my kettle, wait a few minutes, add 2-3 kernals until they pop and then add the rest.

Last week I tried cutting my prepacks in half and popping that amount. I did have fewer old maids than when I pop the pack at one time but still more than I was hoping for.

I plan to try the Lou Ana's and loose corn to see if I get better results. Just need to order some Flavacol.

Keep me posted.

Kari

dapdrums

06-08-06, 01:11 PM

dapdrums,

Keep me posted.

thanks Kari, that is exactly my situation too! Keep use posted if Lou Ann's gunk works better.

IrmoGamecoq

06-08-06, 02:05 PM

Yeah, Dap...Tony and I both have the same model (CCP-509) as you. We bought ours from Amazon.com though.

I'm not using pre-packs, and I don't *think* Tony is either. Maybe that's the problem/difference?

I don't get a lot of popcorn "flying" out of the kettle so that might also explain the fewer old maids. I once posted elsewhere, maybe here, that I popped 5 batches in a row and the old maid drawer was only about 1/2 full and a lot of that was actual popcorn pieces.

FWIW, here's my setup:

LouAna Coconut Oil (Wal-mart)
Orville Redenbacher Popping Corn (Wal-mart)
Flavacol (Cromers - a local store)
Orville Redenbacher Popping and Topping Oil (Wal-Mart) - Used as topping

tony123

06-08-06, 02:16 PM

Boy, I miss alot when I actually do some work! LOL

Irmo got it right, I'm not using pre-packs. I priced it, and you will get twice as much popcorn for the same price buying in bulk. It's not saving that much time to use the prepacks. Something to think about.

I do agree, that I get some of the "flying" out of the kettle, and that happens in the beginning of the pop. All in all, a batch of four pops will yield no more than a half tray of unpopped and popcorn pieces.

I have been trying to add the flavocol afterward to help reduce the jamming issue. I haven't decided if it helps or not. I know it taste better when put in the kettle.

Cal Blacksmith

06-09-06, 01:05 PM

I have read this thread with great interest. I am an industrial sort of guy and the comments to build quality and assembly have me thinking about going with a commercial machine. I do like the looks of the Costco machine in the picture but your experiences have me thinking more rugged. I think this also relates to the problem of the stir rod jamming. I think a commercial machine will probably have a stronger motor. I know I have watched popcorn being made in the theater many times and they never worry about the stirrer jamming or dumping the batch before it is finished to ease the load on the stirrer.

In my research, I have found the comment that for the best popcorn, you need to make 3 to 5 batches at a run. Also if the popcorn is chewy, the temp was too low. If it is brittle and easily breaks, the temp is too hot.

I am excited about getting a machine for our HT and for me the more industrial look is a + Good luck with all your HTs and enjoy that popcorn!

dapdrums

06-09-06, 01:36 PM

timtimes

06-09-06, 01:42 PM

I've been perusing the all things popcorn side of the avsforum for over a year now. Unless I'm missing something, you can get both an industrial quality popcorn machine AND a good looking one as well, but not at the price of the one in this particular thread.

I agree with the notion that this more inexpensive popper may not be up to the quality a lot of people might be looking for, but it's not like you can't get an 'industrial' model that doesn't 'look' industrial.

Pretty sure they make higher end models of the kind being talked about in this thread. I've also looked at some more expensive popcorn makers that are very contemporary in styling. The one that immediately comes to mind is the 'bubbling jukebox' looking one.

Popcorn Machine - - Our new Jukebox Popper has a lighted facade and bubble tubes. Combines the nostalgic look of a 1940s "Bubbler Jukebox" with the functionality of a high-tech popcorn machine.
This commercial-grade 6-ounce popper will produce 113 servings of theater-quality popcorn per hour. Price for this unit is close to a grand.

Enjoy.

dapdrums

06-09-06, 01:54 PM

This commercial-grade 6-ounce popper will produce 113 servings of theater-quality popcorn per hour.

Yes but my popcorn maker goes to 114 - Spinal Tap :D

... You want to see comercial grade... check out the popper that travels with Ringling Bros. Circus. Wholly Moley that thing pumps out popcorn like Britney Spears pops out children!

IrmoGamecoq

06-09-06, 02:23 PM

Yes, the look is nice, especially when assembled, but no doubt a Gold Medal or the like would function better. Ah well, the price was good and the popcorn it does pop tastes good. With bulbs going for 300.00, I'm fine, for now, with my cheaper popper.

I have absolutely no regrets about my purchase either. Perhaps if my Home Theatre were a little more high-end, and cost was no object...I'd opt for a "commercial" or "industrial" grade popper.

But, for my money, this popper is the best value. It gets lots of compliments, is easy to use, looks great, and pops delicious popcorn. All for around half the price of the next step up.

dapdrums

06-09-06, 02:29 PM

If money was no object I think I would have gotten the same popper, but hired a butler to clean the machine when the movie is over!

tony123

06-09-06, 02:52 PM

I'm going to have to give a different angle on this.

I do regret my purchase. It is a good deal for the price, but ultimately I want a piece of equipment that functions the way it should. The jamming issue, in my opinion, makes this unit not function the way I expect.

Cutting corners is acceptable in all areas of build quality except for the parts that make it function properly.

Also, a popper is one of those things that you hope to buy only once and have it forever. I doubt this machine makes it beyond 5 years. When will I learn to not try and save a buck on long term items?

Although, I don't know much about the machines in the next price point. Maybe they have jamming issues too?

Cal Blacksmith

06-09-06, 03:15 PM

Well, I did it! I ordered a small commercial duty popcorn machine! I can’t wait for it to get here; it will be coming FedEx ground so it will be a little over a week. I have about 12 hours of searching and research into this project and I hope I have it right! What good is a HT without fresh popcorn? :D I ordered a 4 oz machine as there is normally only two of us but there can be up to 8. I think that 80+ servings per hour is enough! ;)
The price point was $306 for the machine only and I do LOVE the industrial look!

I seems I am not allowed to post pictures or links to them until I have a few more posts :mad:

dapdrums

06-09-06, 03:15 PM

Cal Blacksmith

06-09-06, 03:16 PM

ignore

Cal Blacksmith

06-09-06, 03:16 PM

ignore again

Cal Blacksmith

06-09-06, 03:16 PM

ignore a third time

Cal Blacksmith

06-09-06, 03:17 PM

The picture link is here
picture (http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/snappypopcorn_1901_1789110)

IrmoGamecoq

06-09-06, 03:54 PM

Agreed Tony. Mine machine has not jammed yet and i'm on my 14 or so pop. That would be bummer, whereas, unpopped kernels is just an inconvience. The way I look at it is when I go to sell my house I plan to "toss in" the popper and possibly projector and home-made screen (I'm taking my electric screen!). I think I could make money on the deal and more importantly close the deal on the house sooner for a home theater of any quality is impressive to someone who never thought about one. So, I'll get my real-deal popper in a few years.

Interesting, I have pretty much the same plan, though mine is a little farther out.

Tony - You could probably get back a certain amount of your investment by selling your popper either here or on Ebay. That way you could upgrade to what you want.

FWIW, mine was a gift from my wife and beside the fact that I love it and I'm very happy with it...I don't have any room to grouse about it. :D

tony123

06-09-06, 04:27 PM

No grousing here. I'm going to enjoy it and not look back. I'm sure that, by the time it dies, I will feel I've gotten a good deal. :)

It just doesn't fall into my philosophy of buy once.

Please don't kick me out of the club! Okay? Here I go, "I Love My Popper".

hinrgmike

06-10-06, 07:15 AM

dapdrums, I am doing it slightly different than you. I put the oil in immediately let it run until oil is melted and then dump the corn. The corn is in the oil for about 2-3 minutes before any popping starts.

Don't know how this could be a factor?

On another note, I have now gotten in the habit of popping 4 batches on a Friday night and letting it last through the weekend. Less time popping and cleaning...more time eating!

I just received this model in black from Costco and am getting ready to start my popping this weekend. Already bent the stir rod in the kettle as described. I like the idea of making most/all of my popcorn to last the weekend. When people are doing this, do you leave the power on (lamp/tray warmer) all weekend as well or is it ok to just let the popcorn sit in there and then turn the lamp on a little ahead of time to warm it?

Thanks,
Mike

tony123

06-10-06, 08:29 AM

I'm only assuming its okay from various research I've done.

I leave the warmer off until about a half hour before the corn is needed. Seems to work fine for me. I wouldn't be comfortable with the warmer on all weekend.

IrmoGamecoq

06-12-06, 08:09 AM

Please don't kick me out of the club! Okay? Here I go, "I Love My Popper".

Heh heh! No buddy, I joined the club right before you so I doubt I have the authority to kick anyone out anyway. :D

FWIW, I popped a couple of batches last night and only got one jam. Still need to look into the bent-rod solution.

Mike - I wouldn't leave the warmer on all weekend either. The bottom of the tray gets pretty hot, and besides, it's not necessary. It'll warm up everything in no more than 30 minutes anyway. I do bag up my leftovers in gallon-sized ziplocs when I'm done though. It's stays fresh/dry that way. Just add them back to the warmer when you're ready to eat next time.

donpaulmartin

10-25-06, 08:43 AM

Hi All;

I just received my CCP509 yesterday. I've gone through a lot of this thread, and I've noticed references to coconut-butter sticks and pre-paks, and I'm wondering if anyone has advice about where to go online to buy these things, and what seems to work and taste best?

Thanks!

Don

dapdrums

10-25-06, 09:29 AM

mega pop prepaks taste authentic and all who have had it at my place rave about it's authentic taste. We don't go through popcorn that quickly so the added cost for the pre-packs doesn't bother me. I like the ease of just cut and dump!

donpaulmartin

10-25-06, 12:37 PM

Megapop pre-packs... is there a place online where I can order them? And is there a 4 oz size for the kettle?

bakpakva

10-25-06, 12:47 PM

Megapop pre-packs... is there a place online where I can order them? And is there a 4 oz size for the kettle?

You can order some at a great price from the powerbuy that is going on right now. You can buy the 4oz packs, but a better deal is to buy the 8 oz packs and cut them in two. I usually make two batches anyhow, so it is easy for me to do. I have also stored the other half, and it doesn't seem to affect the popping. Do make sure you split the salt though. You can either seperate it from the corn by cutting a small hole in the bottom of the pouch and catching it in your salt scoop, or lay the pack horizontally and shake the salt evenly before cutting the pouch in two.

bakpakva

10-25-06, 01:12 PM

I might also add, that I do the same as most on here regarding the pop cycle. I have a Gold Medal Retro 4 oz model. I let the kettle heat for 1-2 minutes, then add the oil. I either use the MegaPak or cocoa sticks, depending on my mood at the moment. Both work well. After the oil is good and hot (another couple minutes), I add the corn and salt. I do get a few old maids, but I think that is normal for the first batch. The proceeding batchs pop faster and have fewer old maids. I also leave the front doors open while the corn is popping to release as much steam as possible. I also let the warmer tray heat up to dry the corn. I find that the popcorn is best after it has sat on the warmer for an hour (doors closed), so that the last remaining moisture is allowed to escape. I have been using this popper for a year now, and it still works like new. I don't regret paying a little more for this unit as it has a powerful motor and a heavy stainless steel kettle. It is my first and hopefully last popper, so it was a good investment. I am not sure about the Costco model, but I know that I can not immerse my kettle in water, it will damage the heating element. You might want to check your manual. Cleanup is easy as the kettle comes out and I wipe it down with water and a microfiber cloth. Even after a year's use, I don't have a carbon buildup (though it is slightly brown in the bottom).

I haven't tried the Lou Anne's topping, because I can't find it in my local Walmart and haven't bothered to order it online. I may try that at some point as it gets rave reviews on here. I have been happy with the SuperKistII topping and the O'dell's anhydrous butter. The butter is expensive, so I use that sparingly and only on special occassions. Regular butter will make the popcorn soggy, but if you don't mind, that is a cheap solution. (I don't like it soggy). You may be able to heat the butter like you would when making drawn butter, scooping off the foam, but that is too much work for me.

The popcorn will stay fresh for many days, so it never hurts to pop extra if you are going to be eatting it over the next few days. You do have to heat it a bit on the warming tray, and toss it around, but it is still as good as fresh popped. (Some say even better).

I use a Presto Hot Topper to warm the toppings and spray each serving to taste. Works great, and you can pick them up on eBay. Of course you can always warm the topping up in a container in the microwave just as easily.

I have also tried 3 different toppings: chocolate, caramel, and pop'n glaze. I really like the pop'n glaze it tastes like kettle corn. The chocolate was 'different' and the caramel was also quite good. Cleanup is very easy with these toppings, just use a warm cloth to wipe out any remaining topping.

As I mentioned earlier, Ken has a powerbuy going on for another week, and has all sorts of popcorn, poppers, toppings, and accessories on sale with free shipping.

McCall

11-09-06, 03:25 PM

I Got the Paragon 8 oz Theater Pop machine in the power buy and I have to say that is one rugged well built machine. I have yet to use it though, looking forward to trying it out.

g4patw

12-08-06, 06:42 PM

New to this site, looking for info on the CCP-509 since buying this week at Sam's Club. Have found some of the info very valuable already but still have some questions:

1. After assembling the unit, we're wondering how critical is it for being level? We want to display it in our HT and it is on carpet, so we put board under it and leveled it using the adjustment on the legs. Nothing in the instructions, but just thought it might make a difference.

2. Is a little more oil better? The instructions say 1 tablespoon oil w/ 1/2 cup popcorn, can you use maybe 2 -3 tablespoons oil, or is that too much?

3. Have pre-heated the kettle for about 5 minutes added oil, popcorn and 1 teaspoon salt and let it go for almost ten minutes and still had more than half of the kernals un-popped. Some smoking but none of the popcorn was burnt, so not sure what we're doing wrong.

4. We tried using it twice and ended up with 1/2 cup of old maids :-(. We started using Act II butter oil and topping for popping, with not much success. So we have gone out and bought some LouAna's Coconut Oil (found it at Wal-Mart in the aisle with the oils), Redenbacher's Popcorn and have some Cretor's Popcorn Salt (is this okay? anyone else heard of this?). Will try again later tonight with the new ingredients.

Any comments would be appreciated.

McCall

12-08-06, 06:57 PM

It sounds like it may be defective or underpowered. usually it takes 3 to 4 minutes to pop with a good machine, and not too many old maids. and DON'T use more oil then recommended.

MidLife

12-08-06, 07:02 PM

Sounds either like the kettle is not hot enough or the popcorn has dried out.
Popcorn kernals need to be "fresh" and contain moisture in order to "pop".
Are you using table salt? That may be part of the problem if so. Popcorn salt is finer flakes and not granules like table salt.
I would try another batch of 'fresh' popcorn first and use coconut oil. Be sure to keep the lid on the kettle closed. Hope things work out!

g4patw

12-08-06, 08:25 PM

Thanks for the responses.

Have better results this evening. First tried the Redenbacher's Oil with a fresh jar of Redenbacher's Popcorn, the first batch popped after about 7 minutes and the second after about 3 minutes, but still had quite a few old maids, so decided to use the coconut oil and WOW what a difference. Took only about 2 minutes to start popping and finished in about another 2 minutes. Very few old maids, too. Made another batch and it was even a little quicker.

Have learned my lesson about how much difference the type of oil can be.

As far as the salt, it is a very fine popcorn salt, so it wasn't the problem. Not sure how many folks are aware that if you like using Kosher Salt, you can put it in one of those small grinders and grind it up real fine and it works and tastes great.

Could have been the popcorn, although I buy 20lbs at a time and store it in the freezer until almost ready to use. I used it in the hot air popper and usually took it out of the freezer a day or two in advance. But did use the new jar of Redenbacher's, just to be sure. Next time will experiment with the older popcorn and see what happens, now we know what this popper can really do.

Pretty sure at this time that the oil was the problem and now we'll only use the coconut oil and I don't think there was a problem with the machine just the operator :-)

Oh, by the way, do have another question in reference to the coconut oil - can you melt it and then let it get solid and re-do that process multiple times (only would do about the amount I think it would take for that day's batches, but if I had any left over wouldn't want to throw the excess away)? It is hard to determine how much you are using cause part of it stays in the measuring cup, so thought about maybe melting some in the microwave. Does it ever need to be refrigerated?

Thanks again and now we're off to fill our tummys with some popcorn!

MidLife

12-08-06, 10:29 PM

I would recommend portion pre-paks for home use. Coconut oil, flavored salt and popcorn kernals in one sealed package. Pre-measured no fuss, no mess. No measuring. Separate oils, kernals and salt packs are for production popcorn cooking. For home use you really can't beat the pre-measured paks. Do a search on popcorn portion pre-packs. They are the easiest to use for consistent results.

Jeffcom

12-31-06, 01:26 PM

Purchased this popper from Sam's Club a couple of weeks ago for a great price. They were all gone within a few days.

Found a solution to very excessive amount of old maids. Been using Lou Ana's coconut oil from Walmart. Found by doubling the amount of oil the problem is solved. The directions call for too little oil. Using two cookie dough scoops now.

popcornsupply.com is great for getting corn, glaze, etc. Samsclub.com to pick up a decent popcorn scoop and popcorn box containers.

dapdrums

12-31-06, 01:40 PM

I honestly don't think there is a solution to the old maid problem. The kettle height is shorter then in more expensive units and, at least in my case, as soon as the lid opens and popped corn flys out, it takes some unpopped ones with it. I'd say approx. 1/3 (or slightly less) don't pop. ...I consider it "portion control! :)

Jeffcom

12-31-06, 05:56 PM

Yes the kernels that fly out with the popped corn are unavoidable. :) Had 50% or better failure rate however. The bottom or the kettle had many old maids after all popping stopped. Seems that the oil ran out before the rest of kernels could pop.

Am satisfied given that less than 1/3 are old maids now. Still don't think a single scoop of oil from the provided measurer is sufficient to pop.

Has anyone else found using more oil than directions specify, give a better pop?

dapdrums

01-01-07, 10:06 AM

Given how much oil is in the pre-paks I don't think 2 scoops sounds like much for your recipe.

Jawhn

01-03-07, 04:51 PM

Has anyone ever measured the amounts (oil, corn, salt) in the prepaks?

dapdrums

01-04-07, 07:14 AM

Has anyone ever measured the amounts (oil, corn, salt) in the prepaks?

Started too, but I lost count on the salt particles around 1,20324! :) That is an excellent question! The oil seems way more then the do-it-yourself receipe.

Jawhn

01-04-07, 03:09 PM

Started too, but I lost count on the salt particles around 1,20324! :) That is an excellent question! The oil seems way more then the do-it-yourself receipe.

:D :D :D

I don't use the pre-paks, but would be very interested in the contents.

Jeffcom

01-04-07, 07:04 PM

CCP509 MOD

Just completed a mod for the machine. Got tired of popcorn jamming under the stirrer arm so replaced the compression spring with a longer one for more tension. Will post with my results. Spring at Ace Hardware for $.60. At the same time I repositioned the stirrer rod so the gear fits completely with the motor gear.

Am also interested in how much oil is in the prepacks. Is it more than one scoop of the supplied premeasured cup?

Jawhn

01-08-07, 10:04 PM

Jeffcom

01-09-07, 07:28 PM

The mods worked out great. Made several kettles of corn and so far no jamming. The higher tension spring keeps popcorn from jamming underneath stirrer. All in all I think have tweaked the machine as far as it can go.

Lt_Sully

02-27-07, 07:13 AM

Thanks!

Sully

Malcolm_B

03-02-07, 11:15 AM

Tried various combos after running out of the freebie pre-packs, but ended up buying a 35 pre-pack online. Might go the coconut oil route next time, rather than the Orville R. oil (didn't care for that stuff at all), but the pre-packs are just too easy rather than measuring oil and corn. And I could never seem to get the salt right.

krazykeith

06-11-07, 09:19 PM

As for how much oil is in the prepacks, I have some "chief's choice" that I got from a local restaurant supply store. I haven't actually weighed it, but the net weight on the package says 5.25 oz. With 4 oz. being the corn, and maybe .25 oz (probably not quite that much) being salt, I'd say the oil is just over an ounce. Not sure how many tablespoons that would be, but definately more than one! If I was forced to guess I'd call it 2 or 2.5 tablespoons.

mercy

06-11-07, 09:54 PM

I dont know if anyone has mentioned this yet but I was at my local Sams Club this past weekend and you can now get this popcorn machine for 165.00. They only had three left.

Shift

06-23-07, 08:51 PM

I dont know if anyone has mentioned this yet but I was at my local Sams Club this past weekend and you can now get this popcorn machine for 165.00. They only had three left.
Dang!!!!!!!!!!

Equusz

07-05-07, 06:40 AM

$199 at Liquidation Connect with free shipping. The prices have really come down on these. Gonna order soon.

theirishgonzo

07-05-07, 07:54 PM

now what is the diffreance between one of these macines and per say a nice creators machine for twice the price?

wildfire99

07-05-07, 08:55 PM

$199 at Liquidation Connect with free shipping. The prices have really come down on these. Gonna order soon.
The only time I've had my card number stolen was not too long after ordering a hot dog gizmo from those guys. Makes me suspicious....

Digital Man

07-05-07, 09:06 PM

Is there a picture of this machine on Sam's or Costco's website? I can't figure out which machine we are talking about.

This is the cheapest one I see on Sam's website:

http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=164281

But Costco has this one. Perhaps this is it?

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11201859

Thanks,
Guy

pcdoctor

07-06-07, 05:17 AM

The only time I've had my card number stolen was not too long after ordering a hot dog gizmo from those guys. Makes me suspicious....

Wow!

Equusz

07-06-07, 07:30 AM

Falcon Eddie

07-06-07, 06:04 PM

now what is the diffreance between one of these macines and per say a nice creators machine for twice the price?

Plenty!!!

wildfire99

07-06-07, 06:47 PM

Plenty of difference sure, but unless you're making popcorn every day, I'd say there isn't enough difference to be concerned with.

The 'bigger' version at Costco ( http://www.costco.com/Browse/ProductSet.aspx?Prodid=11222626&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|103&N=4009932&Mo=15&No=4&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=28670&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&topnav= ) has a built-in tray warmer (which is mildly useless unless you're letting the corn stand for over an hour) and an 8oz kettle instead of 4oz, as well as a slightly better stirring mechanism.

If you're on a budget, a Stir Crazy unit (http://www.amazon.com/West-Bend-6-Quart-Popcorn-Popper/dp/B00004RC6R) will do just as good a job at making popcorn as these bigger machines as long as you put the popped corn in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out more.

MidLife

07-06-07, 06:53 PM

differences?

overall build quality
thicker sheet metal
powder coat baked enamel paint finishes
anodized aluminum cooking surfaces for better/even heat transfer
true heating elements as opposed to foil heaters
tempered glass panels
stainless steel food contact surfaces
armored kettle electric cords
stronger motors
old maid trays
heated deck
warranties
replacement part availability
Made in USA

to name a few

mike.armf

07-06-07, 07:38 PM

MidLife

07-06-07, 08:46 PM

"Any input? Thanks - Mike"

Paragon. IMO, the best in home theater popcorn machines. I have one.

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g273/MidLife_2006/Popper1.gif?t=1183772742

:D

Falcon Eddie

07-06-07, 09:17 PM

Falcon Eddie

07-06-07, 09:40 PM

Help!
After not using my CCP509 for awhile, I tried firing it up on the 4th and - uh oh - I couldn't get the oil hot enough to pop the corn. The kettle got warm, but not hot. Everything else, stirring rod, light, etc, worked just fine.

Anyone else tackle this problem?

I figure I'll have to send it back to the manufacturer, but I'm concerned that the repair will cost half or more of the original price... So it may be smarter to get a newer, beefier popcorn maker...

Any input? Thanks - Mike

With the Cretors machines the manufacturer sends you the part to repair the machine yourself. It's rather simple and convenient. And, since they've been in business and manufacturing in the U.S. for over 100 yrs, they probably aren't going anywhere anytime soon either.

razrbak

07-06-07, 11:23 PM

Well I've been trying to talk the wife into letting me buy a popper for our game room area for a while now. She's concerned with it "smelling like popcorn all the time" in there. Can anyone chime in? Obviously it's going to smell like popcorn when it's being made and for a short time (hopefully) afterwards.. What has been your experience, can you smell popcorn in that room, even when you haven't made any in a while?

wildfire99

07-07-07, 02:38 AM

Is there something wrong with the room smelling like wonderful, buttery, fresh popcorn? :)

I don't notice popcorn smell, but then I do make sure to air the room out regularly so it doesn't smell like leather, electronic gear 'ions', or just staleness. If you had to, a little febreeze does wonders.

Equusz

07-07-07, 03:17 AM

Sure those Cretors machines are great, but oh-my-god expensive.

Falcon Eddie

07-07-07, 05:02 PM

Sure those Cretors machines are great, but oh-my-god expensive.

You're right that they are not the cheapest machine out there, but I consider some of these premium poppers as an item I would keep for the long run. A lot of items these days are built to be disposable and that is why some of them can be so inexpensive. You usually don't find out about this factor until the machine malfunctions or breaks and you need to fix it. Only then to learn it may not be worth the expense to repair the unit, if you even can, since you can buy another one for about the same cost.

If a person were intent on a getting a better machine and they keep their eyes open; then, some of the premium machines can be had for a better price. Of course, then if you find a discounted premium machine, it probably still will not be as low of a price that many have plunked down for the Costco, Sam's Club, etc. poppers.

In the end, after personally seeing several of these low priced machines and comparing them to the Cretors, Paragon, and some of the Gold Medal models; they are not in the same game.

wildfire99

07-07-07, 10:25 PM

In the end, after personally seeing several of these low priced machines and comparing them to the Cretors, Paragon, and some of the Gold Medal models; they are not in the same game.
I won't disagree, but anyone considering a popcorn popper has to take into account their own needs. I was hard-set on getting a Paragon popper for $400, but with shipping issues and powerbuys I waited and waited and eventually spent $250 on the costco 8oz popper simply because it was an "instant gratification" thing.

Every once in a while I still wish I hadn't spent even the $250. I use the big machine once a week to pop up a batch or two, and it easily lasts a week for 2 people. While the popping process is simple and somewhat fun to watch, cleanup is annoying, and the corn isn't significantly improved from what you get with a $30 stir-crazy. Popcorn just has to get hot enough to explode, that's pretty much it. I've made popcorn in stock pots on the stove, and it tastes the same as everything else.

I'm not after a fancy concession stand look, just good tasting corn. The key to good "movie theater" popcorn is using the "movie theater" pre-packs with coconut oil and flavacol.

If you have a media room, money, and you want to create a fancy concession-stand like look, then get the Cretors or whatever you want. If you just want to make good popcorn once a week, then all these machines, from the bargain Elite to the exotic alien-alloy Cretor, are overkill.

pcdoctor

07-08-07, 01:56 AM

Sure those Cretors machines are great, but oh-my-god expensive.

I don't really hear that much about Cretors.
I'm familiar with them but yes a bit too much for me.
When I first started shopping for a popper, I saw different Cretors poppers online. I like the look of the goldrush.

http://www.finest1.com/cretors/mgoldrsh.jpg

Falcon Eddie

07-08-07, 05:15 PM

I won't disagree, but anyone considering a popcorn popper has to take into account their own needs. I was hard-set on getting a Paragon popper for $400, but with shipping issues and powerbuys I waited and waited and eventually spent $250 on the costco 8oz popper simply because it was an "instant gratification" thing.

Every once in a while I still wish I hadn't spent even the $250. I use the big machine once a week to pop up a batch or two, and it easily lasts a week for 2 people. While the popping process is simple and somewhat fun to watch, cleanup is annoying, and the corn isn't significantly improved from what you get with a $30 stir-crazy. Popcorn just has to get hot enough to explode, that's pretty much it. I've made popcorn in stock pots on the stove, and it tastes the same as everything else.

I'm not after a fancy concession stand look, just good tasting corn. The key to good "movie theater" popcorn is using the "movie theater" pre-packs with coconut oil and flavacol.

If you have a media room, money, and you want to create a fancy concession-stand like look, then get the Cretors or whatever you want. If you just want to make good popcorn once a week, then all these machines, from the bargain Elite to the exotic alien-alloy Cretor, are overkill.

I don't have a media room or a fancy concession stand. And I wish I hadn't spent the money I spent either. But then again, if you knew what I paid for my popper, you'd probably think otherwise. But, then again I feel like never spending any money on anything and when I do only to regret it later. Is there any other way not to regret spending money on anything. I suppose there is if you are using someone else's money...then what the hey! Personally, I don't make it a habit to load my house with cheap junk....especially the things I expect to last. But, that is my personal decision.

Well, I pretty much do the same thing. Pop a couple loads and it lasts for a long time. The issue I brought up was that it was a machine I was going to keep for a long time and repair/replacement issues are more important concern for me. Why would I want to pay for 2 or 3 cheap machines when I could have bought a better one that is pretty much assured of being a repairable item. As you stated, I guess that is all in what you consider necessary. A felt it necessary to not risk having to buy multiple units over the long term or forget the whole thing. I personally feel it not necessary to buy a Stir Crazy machine too.

Sure, a person can live in a shack or a mansion. That is anyones choice.

Fancy...well I don't know about that. They all pretty much look the same to me except for some different cosmetic issues associated with each. The quality of the internals is what matters to me and the repairability.

Overkill....so are a lot of things everybody owns. We could go through your belongings, I'm sure, if you were willing, and I'd bet we'd find lots of it too. Arguably overkill, probably. But on what you consider "overkill" or what I consider overkill?

I disagree with your comment about cleanup is annoying. I've popped dozens of batches and I've only got a stray spray of oil on the glass. Not anything that warrants an overall cleaning. Wiping out the kettle and stirrer is a every use issue, but you have to clean a Stir Crazy unit too. So, maybe different machines make more of a mess than others do or the ratio some use to pop their corn is out of whack and is causing the excessive cleaning. Mine doesn't.

I don't feel like arguing with you about popping machines and was not my intention to do so. So, excuse me if I don't reply to anymore of these posts. Not worth it to me...but that is what I consider reasonable.

It just appears to me like a bunch of hooey trying to justify a individual's purchase decision. Doesn't get anybody anywhere.

wildfire99

07-08-07, 10:07 PM

It just appears to me like a bunch of hooey trying to justify a individual's purchase decision. Doesn't get anybody anywhere.
I was just trying to save someone money if they came in reading these and like I did, thinking they need a big fancy popper to get good tasting popcorn when in reality it's the type of corn/oil/salt itself that tastes good, and the popper is just a tool.

Since this thread was about an inexpensive machine, I figured I would mention that someone just trying to make the move from microwave bags to theater style corn can do so without a big kettle and a glass box. That's all, not trying to discourage the big poppers otherwise (as I said, I have one).

As for overkill, I certainly do have it. One look at the bill for my amps and speakers and projector would probably make most people faint, and some days I do wish I hadn't spent money on them, but I got what made me feel good. I don't disagree with others who get the $299 Onkyos either, if that's all they need for a living room setup.

As to cleaning, the kettle is easy as pie, my real annoyance is getting all the oil splatter off the clear side-walls. It's not bad if you put water in the kettle and let it get all steamy inside, but if you want to keep the thing spotless you're talking about 10 minutes of cleanup and a wad of paper towels a week (for 5 minutes of popping), whereas with the stir crazy you throw the upper lid in the dishwasher and wipe off the heating base with a paper towel before it gets too cold.

So there are benefits (batch size, ease of use, looks, tray warming, serving convenience) for the glass box poppers and drawbacks (cleaning, price, space used), regardless of whether you get the 'Kia' popper or the 'Mercedes'; they both get you to the grocery store the same, but they aren't the same experience.

But both of us are off-topic, since this was about the Costco '509' popper, so I won't digress anymore either. :D

MidLife

07-08-07, 10:32 PM

venting steam is key.
steam, though necessary to pop corn, is it's biggest hindrance to crispy corn. I would think a stir crazy concentrates steam and that's why people "warm or dry" thier corn in the oven afterwards. Seems like a hassle and two-step operation to me.
To make fresh, hot, crispy popcorn, you need a machine that vents steam readily, has a warmer deck, and air flow. The wirily pops, stir crazys, et all wont do that. Neither will the home-theater-sized poppers. Theaters use 16-24-32 oz machines and pop a bunch of popcorn and transfer to warmer/merchandisers. All of the home-theater sized poppers directions state that you should leave the doors ajar while popping! If you simply vent the top of the "glass box" alot of the steam would escape and corn would be crisper.
Anyway, I pop corn about an hour before the event. Let it sit on the warmer deck for at least an hour stirring every fifteen minutes. A top lamp heater doesn't work as well as a bottom warmer deck. However, a heated deck AND a heat lamp is the best of both worlds.

JasonBrown

05-17-08, 12:20 PM

MidLife

05-17-08, 10:05 PM

Which machine is the issue with? :confused:

JasonBrown

05-18-08, 09:40 AM

Which machine is the issue with? :confused:

The CCP-509

BlackRiderX

05-20-08, 12:33 AM

Has anyone had a problem with the stirrer in the kettle jamming? I've had this for just over 2 years, and it's recently started jamming. I gave the kettle a good cleaning, so it's not related to any oil residue buildup or anything.

With the 509? I had the jamming issue from day one, but none of the suggestions on the board seemed to work for me. I did find a solution that worked for me though. Everytime the stirrer stops I reach in and pull down a little on the gear attached to the machine. The only time my machine jams now is when the corn is just about done popping and the kettle is full.

jayoldschool

10-03-08, 09:11 PM

Thought I would resurrect this thread, and see if anyone had updates to share.

I was just given a popper for my birthday! It's a CCP-510. Anyone know the difference from the CCP-509? From what I have found, the CCP-509 is a little taller, and I don't think the CCP-510 has a tray warmer.

Jeffcom

10-06-08, 07:48 PM

Do you know where the person bought it?

jayoldschool

10-09-08, 10:43 PM

Yes, it was ordered online from JC Penny and delivered to a store for pickup.

Here it is (http://www5.jcpenney.com/jcp/ProductsHOM.aspx?ItemID=1509e56&ItemTyp=C&GrpTyp=STY&ShowMenu=T&ShopBy=0&SearchString=popcorn&RefPage=SearchDepartment.aspx&CmCatId=searchresults&Search1Prod=True)

Mercenary

10-25-08, 10:34 AM

How do you like the one from JC Penny? No warming tray huh? Is that kinda a deal breaker for anyone? Really looking for a budget machine and this may fit the bill...

jayoldschool

10-26-08, 02:51 PM

It works well. I still need to pick up some Flavacol from my local distributor. I have used it with two different oils, and vegetable oil works better than canola. I put the oil in with the kettle cold, and let it heat for about four minutes. Very few unpopped kernels this way.

I think the deck actually does have the warming feature. It gets warm except for where the holes are for the kernel tray.

No complaints so far...

xmenxmenxmen

10-27-08, 11:35 AM

To add more to help others, over the past 2 weekend, I finally got my poppers from Sams. At one store, they had the smaller one (CCP-510) and at another store, they had the bigger one (CCP-509). Beside the size, both of them were made the same. I brought the 510 first, thinking it was actually the 509. Week later at a 2nd store saw the 509 and also brought that to compare.

Took me a while to figure out that there were two models. Finally figure out the best way to tell them apart is just looking at the height. If it's 53, it's teh 510. If it's 59, it's the 509. Simple as that.

Impression of the 510:
- Very compact, but still have the same 4oz kettle as the bigger one. Same built quality as the bigger brother/sister. I got to say, it's actually very cute looking compared to the (yeah) bigger one. Cooking 1 to 2 batch, it actually fills up better than the bigger one. Cleanup and operating feels a little tight.

Impression of the 509:
-Feel very roomy (feels about 30% bigger) compared to 510. Holds a lot more popcorn then the small one. Was able to do about 10 batches and still not filled to the kettle. Operation is the same as the small one as they both use the same kettle. Easier to move around inside to due size.

At the end, I decided to keep the bigger one as when we have parties, we have tons of people that love popcorn, so it was easier to deal with with the extra space inside. Without considering all the parties we host, I would definitely prefer the smaller one as it takes up less space and with small batches, it fills up more. BTW, price was only about $35 difference.

BTW, the JcPenny one reference a few post above is the 510. At Sams, the 510 is 165 and the 509 is 199. I was able to get all my popcorn needs at Smart & Final including the mention butter, seasoning plus popcorn. Picked up 500 bags at Sams for 5 and some change.

Some observation on popping corn with this thing. I recalled many discussion on jamming and old maids. Here's what I notice. If I don't put enough Lou Ann butter (1 oz+), the chance of jam is quite high, but if I do, I never had a jam. At time I have done over 5 batches at a time. Seems like if there's enough oil at the bottom, it keeps the rod spinning freely. As for old maids, with more butter, it seems to do better. Another thing I also do is before another batch, I made sure there's nothing stuck next to the rod, just so it doesn't jam. With those things mention, making jam-free popcorn is easy.

Cleaning the kettle is easy. Just take it out and turn it up-side down and use warm to hot warn and cloth and just wipe unit it's clean. Cleaning the inside and glass is another story. Guess it just takes time.

That's all folks.