I thought I would give a proper review of the Alpha Ultra after using it for a full day. I know I should wait, but I can't! I tried to include everything that I would want to know about the device before I bought it.
Packaging
As mentioned before, the packaging and presentation was real nice. The unit came in a black box with a clear covering containing all the materials I purchased, except obviously the battery charger.
The Manual
Haha, I know the manual isn't a big deal to many people, but this manual is awesome. You can tell a lot of time in front of the computer went into this little book. It has separate sections for each unit. Although the only difference I saw between the models was filling capacity of the RES and types of batteries used. Still, it's very nice to break down each model separately. I asked a question yesterday about how to use the battery charger. Since it was a third party device, I didn't even think to look in the manual. (I had looked through the manual online, so I already new how to work the device). But as I was looking through the manual last night, I found the exact info I had previously asked for. I was really surprised, and impressed.
Form Fit and Function
Again, like others have mentioned. The form and fit for this unit is unsurpassed as far as I can tell. The unit is really small and light; much more so than I originally thought. Everything fits precisely together. Really seems study too. If I dropped this, I wouldn't be too worried that it would break. The only issue I had is that the threads were a bit rough. Putting on some high quality gun lubricant fixed them. I love that everything is self contained. Nothing to take away from the sleekness of the device. A small silver tube really. Very modern looking.
The only thing that kind of irks me is the opposing threads on the switch assembly. It is a fantastic idea to prevent over tightening and the closing of airways. It works well in fact. Only, a few times I had wanted to use the threads on one side of the assembly and the other one got loose from friction on my hand. However, I think it is more due to the differing amounts of lubrication I applied to the threads than anything else. I just tried it now and both tighten and loosen properly. The threads were a bit rough, but metal on metal threads are never butter smooth. Nothing lubrication can't fix.
Quick side note: I bought the aluminum drip tip - this thing is awesome! I've never had a hole that big. Finally, I have a tip that I am actually comfortable dripping through.
The on/off switch
A fantastic idea to create a recessed switch to prevent accidental discharge. Another great idea to make the switch automatically turn off when the switch is released. No worrying about leaving batteries on. However, my hands sweat sometimes so a few times I've had difficulty getting a good purchase on the battery sleeve. The first thing that came to my mind was applying some sort of skateboard tape to improve this. Time will tell whether I get used to it.
I was also thinking however, that the out-of-spec switch I received may be contributing to a bit of extra friction. I'll know in a few days (thanks InnoVapor!).
RES Filling System
Well, the RES works exactly as InnoVapor said it would - It works well. The liquid is sucked through the holes in the bottom of the RES, into the holes at the bottom of the atomizer and into the coil. A simple but effective system. Using the natural viscosity of the liquid to transport itself is a cool idea and works well in practice. Being medical grade ceramic, I can't taste anything besides my liquid. Completely inert. One less thing to think about.
InnoVapor suggests two methods to fill the RES. One is to direct drip the suggested amount directly through the atomizer and into the RES. This works ok for me. You can see the liquid draining through the atty (and going into the RES). I actually smiled when I saw that happen. This method caused me to overfill the RES because I couldn't see exactly how much was needed. However, I firmly believe I will use this method more as I become more attuned to how much liquid is needed. I have no doubt about that as it's such an easy way to fill.
Method #2 is removing the ceramic wick and directly applying liquid that way. Currently, I like this method better because I have better visual cues to know when to stop filling. I really don't find it too messy. This thing definitely holds 1 ml of liquid...I watched it absorb it all. Haha, I smile about that. cool man.
When I take a pull, I can hear the liquid moving from the RES into the atomizer. It's a very distinct sound. You can quickly tell whether the atty is receiving new quality juice, or is getting dry. It sounds different and quickly tastes different. When I start getting that dry hot taste, I will suck without activating the battery. That pulls new liquid from the RES into the atty. I do this until additional sucking no longer pulls new liquid. I'm not for sure yet, but these extra pulls probably get me 5/6/7 real quality hits before I add more liquid.
The only issue I have is overfilling the RES and getting the extra liquid in the little space between the RES and the atomizer. I've followed the directions for the atty drip method, but I don't think it was as dry as I thought. That extra liquid makes it hard to draw and vape obviously. So I take off the RES, wipe down the area, and go back to vaping. I know that I will have this down in a week or so. So I expect that little problem to go away shortly. Bottom line, when I fill it correctly, this RES works great.
Vaping Experience
Actual vaping experience is very enjoyable with this Alpha Ultra. I get generous amounts of vapor, solid but cool throat hits, and great flavor. To me, it feels just like direct dripping without having to drip. I pretty much only DD, never been partial to cartomizers and those large liquid reservoirs on other PVs look silly to me. The vapor is serious quality, and isn't that what we are all after?
Battery usage
I had some initial issues that messed up my first pair of batteries. (Simple mistake). So I can't yet comment on how long a 14500 will last me until I get full charge capable batteries. I will update later on this topic.
Customer Service
As has been noted, customer service is clearly InnoVapor's top priority. They are quickly answer all questions and comments. They have already taken care of an early switch issue. Absolutely nothing bad to be said about customer service and experience. And isn't it like a 3 year warranty? That's ridiculous.
Final thoughts
This PV is a very enjoyable experience. I get the sensation of quality direct dripping without the hassle and mess. It does exactly what it's supposed to do. And as far as I can tell, it will last forever. From the quality of construction, quality of materials, really innovative ideas, and top notch service, I'm glad I bought it.
I have only one lingering thought, and that's my fault more than anything. It crossed my mind that the UltraMax might have been a better choice for me because of the longer usage. I thought with my vaping habits, this PV would be something that could last me all day without reaching for the bottle or potentially batteries. Now I don't think that's the case. I thought that I only vaped about 1ml a day, but apparently it's more than that. I will still have to add liquid, but it is nothing compared to dripping constantly. However, I have been meaning to cut back, and this might be my ticket to that. So if this 14500 can last me all work day (9-5), I will be super stoked. This Alpha Ultra really is a nice size, fully contained and hits great. Good work InnoVapor, good work.
