PaulR, the standard probes that come with the Stoker are only good up to 450 as you have indicated. Rock has a high-temperature probe for sale that is good up to 1,000 degrees (but last time I tried to purchase wasn't available). BTW, the Stoker (and the Guru for that matter) is more about consistent temperature control at lower temperatures for long durations. Personally I wouldn't use it for a high-heat cook. In addition, the Stoker can increase temperature by turning on the fan, but can't do much (other than turn off) to lower the temperature. So your statement of going to 700 degrees to char and then lower the temperature to cook isn't a good application for a temperature controller in my opinion. That type of stuff is best left to a gas grill or a traditional weber kettle with a "hot" side and a "low" side (by piling more coals on one side than the other).