Let's start this in the right context: I've owned this device for all of 12 Hours - let's keep that in mind so this isn't a review of the long term durability of the device, but first impressions.
My usual delivery system: I'm a regular eGo user (900maH, standard resistance) 2 Batteries + 18MG liquid
So after 13-14 months, my eGo batteries started to give up, actually it probably started happening @ 11 mo but cycling new atties kept me going for a while longer.
I was a regular eGo user, so picking up another kit was a win-win in my opinion. I knew the capabilities of the device and found it to be economical and long-lasting. That being said, after some consideration, I thought it might be time to step up to my first VV mod.
I was looking for something very simple in terms of operability, with 510 support and components + form factors which were familiar. Through some ECF and Google searching, I found tons of information on the Darwin, Provari and the Lavatube(or whatever its called in diff't markets).
I priced out the Provari at almost 300CDN with all the toys I would need. Seemed a bit high in price, but since I'm a moderate to heavy vaper, its really more of a long term investment. When I came across the darwin, I knew the quality was there, but the replaceable battery factor that was missing was a bit inconvenient. Ever been in a situation where sourcing a new battery would get you instantly vaping? Yeah, I needed that level of security.
The Lavatube found it's way into my hands through sheer happenstance. It was about 1/3rd the price of either the Darwin or the Provari and was the usual form factor that i enjoy, actually a little better since it fits well in my hand. It's really a no-nonsense design. No bling-intensive chrome to be found, no oddball finish that would need constant attention and moreso it was at a price which I felt was fair. I've heard the issues with the build quality and the non-sealed factor, but considering I could get 3 for the same price, it would give me a better overall value.
The setup: The device includes 2 (yep two) 18650 batteries - these things last for a WHILE. It includes 2 510 attys and the standard charger. For about 100 bucks, it's a great kit. The tube is built very well, although there was some end cap threading roughness, but nothing that some light vaseline or grease can't fix. I popped on one of Happy Vaper's acrylic drip tips (very psychedelic colours) and wrapped it in an eGo XL case (fits extremely well with the atty and tip attached). It will also store the extra battery and some bottles of liquid + a couple attys. Really good for travel.
The voltage control is straightforward and simple - the + button increases the voltage, the - button lowers it. A nice little lcd shows the current voltage setting. It also has a power button - ABOUT DAMN TIME. I like to be able to turn the device OFF at times, since accidental presses are unavoidable on eGo non-T batteries. 3 second hold for on/off operation. As a nice little addition, if you press the button 7 times, it shows the remaining voltage in the battery (a MUST for these 18650's to prevent over-discharge death)
The actual vaping button has a great tactile feel, no oddball lighting anywhere, no nonsense, press, click vape. It's a nice button.
The first vape: O-M-G. Good lord this thing can hit like a tank. 18mg liquid @ 5V (it works out to a little less in actual usage) hit me almost twice as hard as my ego and I only had to press the button for 3 seconds. Not 5 not 8. I really enjoyed the hit @ 5V, and this thing ranges anywhere from 3.0V to 6.0V. Simple enough coming from a non-VV setup. I don't have to worry too much about operating this device like a nuclear missile control board. I'm using a standard atty, which is recommended, and I like them.
As a little bonus, I was able to revive some old attys by cranking them at 5V - 6V. Brought them to about 90% effectiveness, and these things have been "dead" to me for months (probably the weakening power on the eGo battery contributed).
If you're thinking of venturing out into the VV vaping world - I'd recommend the Lavatube/alltheothernames without any hesitation. Like I mentioned, I've had it for a short time, but there was little to no learning curve - it'll feel like the eGo grew up and got a real job. If you're a fan of the tube design, it'll be comfortable to use. Also, if you ARE venturing out into the VV devices, this one is a cost-effective bridge and it can still use your 510 atomizers.
Issues/Initial findings: I mentioned earlier that the thread on the end cap was a bit rough (felt like it was grinding) but some grease solved that quick-time. The plastic end caps bother me a bit, but ONLY from an aesthetic perspective. The overall black design, is a welcome understated look. The red power button also started rubbing off in colour a bit (yeah, it'l go from what I hear, but it doesn't bother me at all). The build quality on mine was solid. The atomizer thread was straight and level and no dents or LCD issues as others have mentioned. The liquid well underneath the atty is shallow, but thats again, a non-issue. Just be careful not to let any liquid gum-up the button since its not sealed. Same with all your other devices, just take care of it a little - maintenance free doesn't exist.
Hope this helps anyone on the fence with this decision. Back to the monster vape. I'll update if I find anything else. Thanks for reading!
Slim
My usual delivery system: I'm a regular eGo user (900maH, standard resistance) 2 Batteries + 18MG liquid
So after 13-14 months, my eGo batteries started to give up, actually it probably started happening @ 11 mo but cycling new atties kept me going for a while longer.
I was a regular eGo user, so picking up another kit was a win-win in my opinion. I knew the capabilities of the device and found it to be economical and long-lasting. That being said, after some consideration, I thought it might be time to step up to my first VV mod.
I was looking for something very simple in terms of operability, with 510 support and components + form factors which were familiar. Through some ECF and Google searching, I found tons of information on the Darwin, Provari and the Lavatube(or whatever its called in diff't markets).
I priced out the Provari at almost 300CDN with all the toys I would need. Seemed a bit high in price, but since I'm a moderate to heavy vaper, its really more of a long term investment. When I came across the darwin, I knew the quality was there, but the replaceable battery factor that was missing was a bit inconvenient. Ever been in a situation where sourcing a new battery would get you instantly vaping? Yeah, I needed that level of security.
The Lavatube found it's way into my hands through sheer happenstance. It was about 1/3rd the price of either the Darwin or the Provari and was the usual form factor that i enjoy, actually a little better since it fits well in my hand. It's really a no-nonsense design. No bling-intensive chrome to be found, no oddball finish that would need constant attention and moreso it was at a price which I felt was fair. I've heard the issues with the build quality and the non-sealed factor, but considering I could get 3 for the same price, it would give me a better overall value.
The setup: The device includes 2 (yep two) 18650 batteries - these things last for a WHILE. It includes 2 510 attys and the standard charger. For about 100 bucks, it's a great kit. The tube is built very well, although there was some end cap threading roughness, but nothing that some light vaseline or grease can't fix. I popped on one of Happy Vaper's acrylic drip tips (very psychedelic colours) and wrapped it in an eGo XL case (fits extremely well with the atty and tip attached). It will also store the extra battery and some bottles of liquid + a couple attys. Really good for travel.
The voltage control is straightforward and simple - the + button increases the voltage, the - button lowers it. A nice little lcd shows the current voltage setting. It also has a power button - ABOUT DAMN TIME. I like to be able to turn the device OFF at times, since accidental presses are unavoidable on eGo non-T batteries. 3 second hold for on/off operation. As a nice little addition, if you press the button 7 times, it shows the remaining voltage in the battery (a MUST for these 18650's to prevent over-discharge death)
The actual vaping button has a great tactile feel, no oddball lighting anywhere, no nonsense, press, click vape. It's a nice button.
The first vape: O-M-G. Good lord this thing can hit like a tank. 18mg liquid @ 5V (it works out to a little less in actual usage) hit me almost twice as hard as my ego and I only had to press the button for 3 seconds. Not 5 not 8. I really enjoyed the hit @ 5V, and this thing ranges anywhere from 3.0V to 6.0V. Simple enough coming from a non-VV setup. I don't have to worry too much about operating this device like a nuclear missile control board. I'm using a standard atty, which is recommended, and I like them.
As a little bonus, I was able to revive some old attys by cranking them at 5V - 6V. Brought them to about 90% effectiveness, and these things have been "dead" to me for months (probably the weakening power on the eGo battery contributed).
If you're thinking of venturing out into the VV vaping world - I'd recommend the Lavatube/alltheothernames without any hesitation. Like I mentioned, I've had it for a short time, but there was little to no learning curve - it'll feel like the eGo grew up and got a real job. If you're a fan of the tube design, it'll be comfortable to use. Also, if you ARE venturing out into the VV devices, this one is a cost-effective bridge and it can still use your 510 atomizers.
Issues/Initial findings: I mentioned earlier that the thread on the end cap was a bit rough (felt like it was grinding) but some grease solved that quick-time. The plastic end caps bother me a bit, but ONLY from an aesthetic perspective. The overall black design, is a welcome understated look. The red power button also started rubbing off in colour a bit (yeah, it'l go from what I hear, but it doesn't bother me at all). The build quality on mine was solid. The atomizer thread was straight and level and no dents or LCD issues as others have mentioned. The liquid well underneath the atty is shallow, but thats again, a non-issue. Just be careful not to let any liquid gum-up the button since its not sealed. Same with all your other devices, just take care of it a little - maintenance free doesn't exist.
Hope this helps anyone on the fence with this decision. Back to the monster vape. I'll update if I find anything else. Thanks for reading!
Slim
