Starter size for 15 gallons

[deeznutts]

Hey guys, so I usually do five gallon batches and make a starter using about 650 ml of water and a half a cup of DME. I'm going to be doing a fifteen gallon batch of Kolsch this weekend and was wondering if I should just multiply everything by three,(three yeast packs, triple the water and DME) or if there was another way to calculate how much of everything to use for this size of a batch. I punched in all the numbers on Mr. Malty's site and it told me to use three smack packs and to make a 5.8 liter starter. Thanks guys, id appreciate the feedback.

[beltbuckle]

I would follow Mr Malty as close as you can. If I have time I usually make a smaller starter (say 2L), ferment and decant, then step it up once more per Mr Malty's calculations. If I don't plan as well ahead, sometimes I end up making a large single step starter, maybe 7L or 8L. Use 100 grams of DME per liter to yield a 1.040ish starter.

[CRBrewHound]

I agree with beltbuckle, the best way to do it is to step it up a couple of times. when do big batches or big beers, I try to follow the calc directions (for end size). However, you get more out of it stepping it up. I usually start with a 1L starter, then up to a 2L starter, then up to a 4L starter.