SXmini and Vulgarian Studio Rotary RTA Reviewed by SessionDrummer

@hittman I actually struggled a bit on how to write this one up, because it actually wasn't bad at all, and did seem to prefer MTL (at least with my chosen setup), but it DID have some fiddly-ness to it. I wanted to accurately portray it to you guys, just like you were in the room with me, as I was setting it up, and running it through it's paces. Some troubles, but not overwhelmingly so.
Your review is great. I’ve just gotten to the point after 16 years vaping that I have little patience for fiddly tanks. Having to loosen the deck screw to change the airflow pins was too much for me.

Smok X-Priv Plus Kit by Infinium

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The X-Priv Plus Kit, offered by the online store and forum Supplier @Morevaping . The kit consists of the X-Priv Plus, a dual 18650 battery-only mod that takes on the design of rectangular boxes with a battery door, very popular lately, but adds the novelty of a dual display and a side firing button that covers the entire casing. To make the most of its two 18650 batteries, the TF-D SubTank, an atomizer covering DL and some RDL vaping, was included in the offer. This kit was received free of charge, without any payment or working relationship.

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The SMOK X-Priv Plus Kit comes in a box featuring only a plasticized sleeve and a heavy cardboard bottom. Inside, well-wrapped in cellophane to prevent screen scratches, are the X-Priv Plus and its TF-D Subtank, two D-Coils (one wrapped and one installed), various spare o-rings, a USB Type-C cable, and a battery warning card.

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The TF-D Subtank, a top-airflow atomizer with a coil range that covers both RDL and DL vaping. It has a diameter of 24 mm at the base, widening to 25 mm in the knurled section. Its height is 39 mm, excluding the pin and drip tip, and it weighs 67 grams. Thanks to the two tanks included in the package, it boasts a capacity of 5.5 ml.

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The 810 drip tip, without o-rings but present in the 810 slot, is more oriented towards RDL due to a slight narrowing in the outer part. It's 14 mm high (including the base), with a 10 mm exit bore. The slide-open top cap is pushed in the direction indicated by the arrow, featuring knurling for easier grip. Once the top cap is open, a silicone sleeve prevents accidental openings. The filling port is wide enough for "chubby" bottles and, with a bit of patience, even "twisted" ones. A second hole is also present to allow air to escape while liquid enters through the main port.

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The two airflow slots are mirrored and can be adjusted as desired, featuring fins for heat dissipation and easier rotation. The airflow ring has a hard stop thanks to a small internal tooth. The package includes two bubble tanks (5.5 ml), with the tank diameter near 30 mm. A 3.5 ml aftermarket tank should also be available.

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To remove it, you must first unscrew the base and pull downwards. The base of the TF-D Subtank has the recurring design of all top-airflow sub-ohm tanks, with two large slots that channel air from the airflow ring to the coil. The draw is not immediate, but there are no liquid leaks.

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The D-Coils are equipped with 4 o-rings, 3 of which fit into the coil housing, creating some friction but ensuring no leaks. The correct insertion is as follows: the (third) black o-ring goes into the tank, while the red one remains visible. The base threading is well executed; if you feel too much friction, it's likely because the coil isn't fully seated. Engraved on the base are the CE, UKCA, and disposal marks, in addition to various Smok logos.

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With the new TF-D SubTank, Smok also introduces the new series of D-Coils, available on MoreVaping. These feature a dual mesh metal section with a hexagonal shape. Smok claims to use high-density antibacterial cotton, which I cannot confirm, but I can say that even with the older T-Air, the cotton provided a clearer and more defined flavor rendition. Smok is one of the few brands that invests in research and the type of cotton used.

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D-Coil 0.4Ω (25W-35W)
D-Coil 0.23Ω (45W-55W) - included in the package
D-Coil 0.15Ω (55W-65W) - included in the package

Few but good coils: with 3 D-Coil models, Smok covers a range of 40 watts, from RDL to almost DL vaping, satisfying most users. Having tried most sub-ohm coils released in the last 3 years, I can confidently place them in a hypothetical top 3 when it comes to flavor definition.

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The X-Priv Plus, a dual 18650 battery mod, makes its 111 grams and dimensions of 89 x 45 x 29.5 mm its main pros, as its specifications are closer to a single 21700 box mod, which can also be purchased alone on MoreVaping. Despite its light weight, the material used for the entire body is zinc alloy, while the battery door is polycarbonate.

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The stainless steel 510 plate is held by 3 screws on an aluminum body, measuring 19 mm wide, with the 510 threading in the center allowing for the installation of atomizers other than its TF-D Subtank. The shape of the Smok Priv Plus allows the use of atomizers up to 25 mm if you want them to sit flush with the platform where the 510 plate is installed for aesthetic purposes, or up to 29 mm if aesthetics are not a concern (in line with the screen and battery door). I even tried a 30 mm dripper, and aesthetically, it didn't look too bad.

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On the side, the enormous firing bar can be pressed anywhere along its length. Approximately three-quarters of the bar's length allows for a click. If you are worried about accidental presses, Smok has implemented several remedies to prevent unintended activations, such as button lock and an installed sensor that vibrates when wattage is accidentally changed.

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On the back of the X-Priv Plus, the polycarbonate battery door, secured by magnets, conceals the battery compartment, which is very stable as it fits into a recess in the X-Priv Plus's body. The only slight play is from bottom to top. The texture varies depending on the color, which will be shown later; this one is called "White Shell." The battery compartment has the correct cell polarity indicated in white and a battery usage reminder. The spring-loaded pin is quite stiff, which I hope will soften over time. A satin ribbon with "Smok" engraved on it can be folded under the batteries to facilitate removal.

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On the front side, a huge 2-inch TFT screen with a touch sensor acts as the + and - buttons, represented by two illuminated arrows that vibrate upon touch to indicate accidental wattage changes.The brightness is not excessively high, a choice likely made to save energy, as the screen is double the size of common screens used on box mods. However, thanks to its size, it remains clear even under sunlight. Below the < and > buttons, there's the USB Type-C port.

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The X-Priv Plus is managed by a very basic circuit but offers a choice of three themes that alter the info layout. Regardless of the chosen theme, all three display the wattage in large font, a 4-digit puff counter, the coil's ohm value, and a puff timer. The battery indicator for all three themes is represented in percentage, and one of them also features two stylized batteries. Power output ranges from 5 to 225 watts, increasing by one watt at a time. When reaching 66 watts, a "high watts" warning appears; the same warning occurs if you decrease from 5 watts, then it automatically jumps to 225 watts.

Circuit Navigation:
  • 2 clicks of the fire button: lock and unlock wattage adjustment
  • 3 clicks of the fire button: lock and unlock the fire button
  • 4 clicks of the fire button: to access the menu
  • 5 clicks of the fire button: to turn on the X-Priv Plus
Menu Options:
  • Clear Puff: to reset the puff counter
  • Theme: to choose between the three available themes
End of functions. The management of the two batteries, provided they are original, from a good brand, and have the same charge cycles and discharge Amperes suitable for the required wattage, results in homogeneous discharge, meaning none drops suddenly. Leaving them inserted in standby, without vaping for a day, they don't lose charge. Even when using it with different atomizers like MTL ones, the consumption seemed in line with other commercial dual battery mods. So, on this front, excellent work from Smok.

Protections:
  • Atomizer Short: when the atomizer is short-circuited
  • No Atomizer: when the atomizer is not detected
  • Ohms Too Low: resistance below 0.15 ohm
  • Ohms Too High: resistance above 2.5 ohm
  • PCBA Too Hot: circuit overheating
  • High Watts: function already mentioned with the warning after 66 watts or if jumping from 5 to 225 watts
  • Time Over: cutoff that engages after 8 seconds of firing
  • Battery Low: when battery voltage during firing is below 3.3 volts
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The X-Priv Plus is undoubtedly a box mod whose size and weight are its strengths, as with almost the same dimensions as a single 21700 and a few extra grams from two 18650s, it can achieve up to 6000 mAh of autonomy. I truly recommend it to anyone who might think a dual 18650 can be inconvenient; the X-Priv Plus could be the first device of its kind to change their mind. Meanwhile, those who commonly use such devices might be surprised by how ergonomic it feels. The TF-D SubTank is a good tank, structurally similar to others, but its strength lies in the precise choice of coils and the cotton used.

The X-Priv Plus Kit is available on @Morevaping in various colors at the following link https://morevaping.com/products/smok-x-priv-plus-kit with the option to also purchase just the X-Priv Plus mod or the TF-D tank, in addition to having the D-coils available.

I extend my thanks to the community and staff of e-cigarette forum for the space provided.
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GeekVape Aegis Solo III Mod - Review by Ben28


GeekVape Aegis Solo III
A few months ago, GeekVape released the new Legend III, a very rugged mod that accepted dual 18650 batteries. However, I'm a bit simpler and a fan of single-battery mods due to their portability, size, and feel in hand. Because of this, I asked the guys at Healthcabin for the new Aegis Solo 3, which is basically the single-battery version of the Legend III.

Thanks to Healthcabin for making this review possible. You can visit their website to learn more about the Aegis Solo 3.

Brand
Product Name
Aegis Solo 3 Mod
Size
H 86.93, W 40.81mm
Working Mode
SMART, POWER, BOOSTING, MEMORY, ECO, TCR
Output Power
5W-100W
Max Output Current
32A
Max Output Voltage
7.5V
Charging Port
USB Type-C; 5V/2A
Battery Type
External single 18650(not included)
Resistance Of Atomizer
0.1ohm-3ohm
Display
0.96 inch screen
Operating Temperature
0℃~45℃
Charging Temperature
0℃~45℃
Packing Size
81*60*135mm (1pc)
Color
Titanium Gray, Golden Blue, Dark Gray, Black, Silver, Purple, Green, Red, Blue, Rainbow

Packaging
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On the front, we see a prominent photo of the device. This is the first thing that catches our eye, and the packaging and photo change depending on the color we choose for our device. At the top, we find some branding, and at the bottom, we see the model name, its maximum wattage, and the chosen color. Again, GeekVape combines black with orange and white as the base colors for their packaging.

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On the back, we first find a description of the device. Just below that, we see its features. A little further down, we'll find the box contents, along with some contact addresses, warnings, a barcode, and a QR code with a scratch check for authenticity.

In the box:
1* Mod (Aegis Solo III)
1* USB Type-C Cable
1* Manual

Device
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I'm going to describe what I consider to be the front of the device, the area where you'll find the firing button, the screen, and the adjustment buttons. I'll describe it from top to bottom.

At the very top, we have the charging port, protected by a silicone flap that also features a small metal plate in the center. Two important things to remember: first, it's not recommended to use the device's charging port to charge external batteries; it's always better to have a separate charger for that purpose. Second, this device boasts an IP68 rating, meaning it should be resistant to shocks, water, and dust. That's why the silicone flap for the charging port is implemented.

Moving down a bit, we find the firing button. Again, GeekVape has adopted what I'd call a peculiar shape, but one that fits the finger impeccably—you'll appreciate this much more from the side view. The button has a very, very subtle click and a medium travel distance. When we discuss the screen in the next image, I'll also cover the functions accessible via this button.

Between the firing button and the power adjustment buttons is where the screen is located. In this case, it's a 0.96-inch display, which is quite common on almost all devices. Regarding the screen itself, I must say that I find the brightness to be very, very low—practically imperceptible in direct sunlight, which I absolutely don't like. However, something I do appreciate is the redesigned UI, which we'll discuss later.

Finally, we have the power adjustment buttons. Along with the firing button, these will serve to, obviously, adjust the wattage and also access the menus. These buttons barely protrude; they're "embedded" in this front section. They have a very short travel distance and, again, a very subtle click. Honestly, I find it uncomfortable that the buttons are like this; I prefer them to stick out, even slightly, as I find them easier to access.

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Let's move on to the screen, one of the basic factors of such a device. I'm going to describe it again, from top to bottom.

At the top, we find a battery indicator by slots, as well as by percentage. In total, it's composed of 5 slots (20% each) and the percentage counter updates in 10% increments. Again, it's something I would have done differently but it's simply a perhaps somewhat subjective note. If you do it in 10 by 10, why don't you make it update directly in "real time"?

Just below, we can find information about the vaping mode we are in, in the case of the image, "POWER". Taking advantage of the moment, why not describe them, right?

- SMART ; Mode that is only usable for GeekVape's own coils. This mode will adjust the power based on the resistance's ohmage.
- POWER ; The classic mode, the one from forever. We simply adjust the power in Watts and vape.
- BOOSTING ; The BYPASS mode we all know, the power is calculated based on the battery's voltage and resistance, that is, we have no power over it, it will try to get the most out of the battery.
- ECO ; Tries to minimize power based on resistance. In my opinion, it looks more like a BYPASS mode than an ECO mode as the name indicates.
- TC-TCR ; Gives us the ability to adjust the power and desired temperature of the coil in a range of 5-100W and 100-315 degrees Celsius.

I have left the MEMORY mode for last; in this mode, we can choose between 5 pre-saved memories. In this way, if for example we use the TC-TCR mode and don't want to adjust it every now and then, we simply save it to memory and use it.

Below the mode we are vaping in, we generally find the power (if it's POWER mode). Just below that, we can see the ohmage, the voltage, and a puff counter that turns into a puff duration counter while we press the button.

After having completed the screen description, we move on to the functions;

- 5 Clicks to turn the device on or off.
- 3 Clicks to access the functions menu.

The menu functions are;
- Mode ; Here we can choose between SMART, POWER, BOOSTING, MEMORY, ECO and TC-TCR.
- Lock-Settings ; We can choose between TOUCH LOCK, BUTTON LOCK (only locks the power adjustment buttons) and UNLOCK.
- Puffs ; Simply serves to reset the puff counter.
- Color ; To change the interface color, we have BLACK-WHITE, BLUE, ORANGE, PURPLE and PINK available.
- Bright ; To change the screen brightness by a percentage ranging from 0-100%.

Well, now that I've described the functions, I want to talk about the touch lock mode. This lock mode completely locks the device if it doesn't feel anything on its backside, and unlocks it when it does feel something. What's the problem with this? Well, as I've checked, if I put the liquid bottle behind it, it detects it and unlocks. And what's the problem you might say? Generally, I carry both the bottle and the device in the same pocket, if I have touch lock activated, it's possible that the liquid bottle unlocks the device in my pocket and it fires and no, I'm not saying it as a possibility, I'm saying it as an empirical fact, it has happened to me. It is not pleasant to put your hand in to grab your device and realize that it has been firing and that the atomizer is burning hot. So for me, this lock mode is a clear no-no.

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Here I show you an image of the side/back of the device. As you can see, it follows a very similar aesthetic to the Aegis Solo II, however, I must admit I like this one much more. The device features a "protection," in this case colored silver and held by 4 screws. We also find a padded part that feels very good once held in hand. It's slightly soft but feels solid when applying a little pressure.

In this padded area is where the sensor is located that detects whether there is something in front of it or not, and in that way unlocks or locks the device. Again, a feature I don't like at all.

As for the materials, the silver-colored insert is made of some metal, probably zinc alloy. The rest of the mod is probably created from plastic, although it actually seems resistant. The only bad thing about these devices is the paint, and there are hundreds and hundreds of cases of Legends and Aegis where the paint starts to chip after several months of use. If you are looking for a mod that maintains its aesthetic, this is not yours.

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The atomizer's threading is screwed to the mod with three star-shaped screws. As you know, there were cases in previous devices where this part tended to come loose over time. In this unit, it seems unlikely to happen; we now have a completely metallic plate that appears to be well-screwed, though only time will tell if that issue persists.

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At the bottom of the device, we find the battery compartment. It's secured by a screw-on cap. In this case, the threading is quite short, and it also features an O-ring to ensure the compartment is completely sealed. The battery fits very well with no rattling whatsoever; it doesn't feel loose at all.

Vaping Time

After mounting an Oumier Wasp Nano with a handmade coil at 0.25Ω and vaping at a power of 50W.

Let's first talk about the feel in hand. It feels like a very, very solid mod, with a quite considerable weight, which I like to feel in my hand. The padded part feels very good in hand, it feels very comfortable and soft.

As for vaping, I notice that this mod has a very, very considerable power loss as the battery charge depletes. I know this is usual and I understand it, but it doesn't happen so exaggeratedly with other mods. When the device is around 30%, the power decrease becomes very noticeable.

I can't say it's a bad mod, but the fact that the power decreases so much from a not-so-low battery percentage is something I don't like at all. Generally, with a mod, I have to change the battery once a day, meaning I use two full charges. With this mod, I have to do two battery changes, meaning three full charges.

As a curious side note, I accidentally spilled a significant amount of water on the mod. After quickly drying it and thoroughly checking the battery compartment, there wasn't a drop of water, and it's still working perfectly to this day after more than five thousand puffs.

Pros And Cons
Pros
Cons
Durability (IP68 Rating)
Significant Power Loss at Lower Battery
Versatile Vaping Modes
Low Screen Brightness
Secure Battery Compartment
Touch Lock Feature Flaws

Conclusion
The Aegis Solo 3 is a tough, comfortable single-battery mod with an IP68 rating, feeling great in hand with an improved screen. However, it noticeably loses power as the battery drains, has a dim screen, and a problematic "touch lock" that frequently unlocks itself. Combined with potential paint chipping, these issues make it less consistently reliable for daily use despite its durability and portability.

SXmini and Vulgarian Studio Rotary RTA Reviewed by SessionDrummer

@hittman I actually struggled a bit on how to write this one up, because it actually wasn't bad at all, and did seem to prefer MTL (at least with my chosen setup), but it DID have some fiddly-ness to it. I wanted to accurately portray it to you guys, just like you were in the room with me, as I was setting it up, and running it through it's paces. Some troubles, but not overwhelmingly so.
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Lounge Lizards / Misfits / Free Thinkers / Bohemians & the Forgotten :: Young at Heart Only

Move out later today to rehab, and expect more PT there - good :)

Progress slow but steady here in the hospital, they just don't have enough staff for good PT.

Surgical "wounds" all healing well, no issues there. So, in general, doing as well or bett3r than expected.

But does Chump know what he's gotten the US into??

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