Do I need a power regulator for my VM still?

[OttoFoasson]

This is newbie question, sorry for that.

I’m starting to get used to my small pot still and want to get a reflux still as well. A basic LM/VM column on a 30l keg seems perfect for me. Not too expensive but still capable.

I won’t build it myself, I’ll order it from a polish company. I get the pros that comes with a DIY project, but I can’t do that right now. Money is tight, so I’m looking for ways to keep the cost down. But not in a stupid, shortsighted way. Buy once, cry once.

Do you need the power regulator to run thin sugar washes?

I’ll go for an insulated 30l keg and a 2” column (150cm) packed with SPP, with two separate ULWD 2000w heaters, typically using the VM (except for foreshots and early heads from the LM).