An Extraction Problem (I think)

[Shotgun]

Hi guys,
It's been a long time between drinks for me (coffee excluded lol)
I haven't been on this forum for maybe 7-8 years so hi to all the long timers and newbies as well.
I have a Vibiemme Domobar Jnr and Mazzer Mini (manual) grinder and they've served me well since I invested in them.
Most of what I learned as an amateur barista in the beginning I learnt on these pages and that knowledge has served me well.
I had a major service done on the Vibiemme recently and since getting it back I've noticed what I think is inconsistent extraction.
My pucks aren't uniform in colour any more with lighter patches around the edges in places (I've not noticed this in the past) SEE ATTACHED IMAGE.
When I break them open they seem reasonably consistent in colour and they don't fall apart. There are a couple of darker patches visible near the edges of the puck in places on the inside after breaking open.
The Vibiemme extracts at just over 9 BAR so that seems in order.
I've just ordered a new Mazzer Mini E (Type A) to avoid stale grounds in the doser each day etc and I'm thinking I should buy a bottomless (naked) group handle to suit VBM group head.
Any advice would be appreciated.
Cheers
Tony L (Shotgun)

[Dimal]

What are the results in the cup like Tony?

Mal.

[Shotgun]

Thanks Mal. The creme looks a tad thin but okay. I can't tell from taste unfortunately because I brought a rotten bug back from Europe and my taste buds are all over the place.
The actual pour (extraction) looks okay as well. I had another look at one of my pucks this morning immediately after extraction and knocking out and it looked more uniform.
I'm beginning to think, embarrassingly so, that the discoloured parts (lighter) might have been the result of uneven drying.
I'll try things again when I get over this bug and get the new Mazzer E.
Cheers
Tony

[Dimal]

All the best for a speedy recovery mate....

Yep, I never take too much notice of what the puck looks like.
Way more important is the quality in the cup. Perhaps you have a trusted coffeesnob friend close by somewhere, who could do some taste testing for you, until your palate returns from Europe...

Mal.

[Shotgun]

Cheers Dimal :-)