I too was excited to see the Timberline, but once you get past the initial presentation (it is a good looking unit) it loses its luster. Kind of like an engine with 300,000 miles on it in a new car body.
I look at it this way, if a pellet grill is going to be your main way to grill and smoke outdoors, then cry once. You get the MAK 1 star General and you are done. You have a grill/smoker that will last a lifetime. It is just that plain and simple.
Look at it this way, your Rec Tec mini and a Rec Tec 680 combined price is that of a One Star.
I also have a One Star General in my cross-hairs................and trust me, with the pellet grills I have previously owned I could already have a loaded One Star with all the goodies. You are talking to the poster boy for impulsive grill purchases...............
Yes, the Rec Tec 680 is one heck of a grill.........Love the rear hopper, stainless in all the right places, good controller.........and even with all of its good points.....it is not close to the quality of a MAK. Not even in the neighborhood.
Swing over to the MAK forum sponsor section and see for your-self. I am sure many MAK owners will be here shortly................