So I ordered some of these with my first Vapors Kitchen order. Filled all but one and vaped on them and I completely understand the mixed reviews. I haven't tried anything but these standard size r5 clearomizers, just for clarification.
Burned Taste - I haven't had a problem with this common issue, and the internal wick seems to be dry in the package. I think this problem is related to the wicking being compressed down by the inner seal as suggested by another few youtube reviewers I have seen. It is best to remove the mouthpiece, inner ring (which did not come in these clearomizers from VK) and the inner seal so that you can "fluff" the wicking to allow better juice absorption.
Here is a good video for an in-depth look -
Throat Hit - Not so much on these ones for me. I know I received the 2.8-3.0 ohm versions but I'm not sure if I should chance them at 6 volts lol.
Clear Tubing - A little brittle for my liking. It seems that these would crack unless you use the rubber tip or the stock mouthpiece that is included.
Basically I think these clearomizers would be nicer in the XL version but work just fine as is most of the time. Factory build quality is the issue here and with a little messing around you can get a clearomizer to work very well. Tons of vapor, mild throat hit and tons of flavor.