Smoktech Vmax Owners - tips, tricks and quirks

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bobbavet

Moved On
Jul 7, 2012
43
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My SS Vmax turned up yesterday. 8)

Ok, throwin out some thoughts out on this THING! lol

Let the Wall of text begin.................................

First the looks. Looks every bit as shiny, sleek and sexy as the promo pics. Having spent considerable hours looking at pics and even in videos, I am still surprised at how small it is.

The build quality is way better than I had expected. Solid cap thread, 5, yes 5! vent holes. The bodies machining and forming looks consistent through out. Laser etching faultless. I have found an ever so slight 1/4 circumference scuff down near the bat cap. It's just a shame I have to touch the bloody thing, as the inevitable handling smudges. My advice, get a polishing cloth if you are that way inclined. If only I could use "force powers' to levitate and operate it. hehehe I'd consider it strong enough to have at work in my tool box (boilermaker). Though would probably be after I get a 2nd Vmax at some stage.

The button has a click to it though not as firm or noisy as an Ego. There is a bit of wobble to the button, around the same as an Ego but magnified due to it's size. The blue led, meh..... I could do without. Personally a chrome button would be preferred.

The red led display is not as glaring as I thought it would be, and prefer it compared to the "blue" led that everyone is raving about wanting. The ability to turn it off is cool, but I like to have it set to my current volts so I know where to head on a change (I have a memory of a goldfish). THe features of Ohms, Bat charge etc won't be used often, but are definitely handy in a diagnoses why something is not vaping satisfactorily.

I don't like the way the clear led cover sticks out from the body. It leaves it "scratch" prone when laying it down it down. Recessing it slightly would be ideal. It is however firmly in place and no movement which I am surprised at.

How does it vape?.............. LIKE A BOSS!

In my vaping progression I am only up to now using plain dual coil carto's arround the 1.5 / 2 Ohm mark. These previously on my Ego Twist would be at the Max 4.8V to get a good vape but on the Vmax, satisfactory at 3.2 / 3.5V. Massive Voltage head room and leaving me scratching my head as to what I'm going to use the extra volts for. (please give me suggestions).

To quote the name of one of my favoured vendors, this thing is a "JUICE .....". It chews it up gobble gobble. hehehe. I'm having trouble keeping the juice up to the 5ml Smok MEGA. I can see a tank comin on. lols Lucky Ive just order a 125ml doubler of "Cherry Cola" from TastyVapes. 8)

Flavour, I find slightly diminished but it's an easy fix. Throat hit up. 30VG/70PG. The nic hit is greater. I cut my 36 down to a 6 by the time it hits my carto and I had a case of the "eye bulges" and "twitches" after my first vape. lmao. But it's all good. Can't wait to throw in a 18 for those "special" occasions. 8P


The bats took around 1.5hrs in the charger, been moderate vaping since ie about 8 hrs and the bats still reading 7.1 in the Vmax hehehe.

The "Ego thread"...... Bit of a disappointment. Yeh I can see this is going to be great for tank users and should be applauded. I was not expecting the larger ego outer thread though it would have been nice to slip an Ego cone straight on, it looks sweet. The major bummer is that you cant use carto's designed to slip over the outer Ego threads. The well opening is not wide enough by about 2 mm to allow MEGA carts or Clearos like the Stardust to fit with out using an Ego adapter. I am really surprised because Smok themselves release carto's in this configuration. Though I can see myself goin to a tank in the future, there will be times I would prefer a Mega cart and have to fumble around for an adapter (if it hasn't been lost). It's not a deal breaker, but I'd pay for the convenience.

Is it a "Provari Killer" ?

Well I have never owned a Provari, but have looked at them from the side line with envious eyes. @$200+ it was definitely going to be a hard slog to save and justify a spend. So on price point it's a no brainer. In regards to features and vape, from all reports the Vmax is up with the Provari, but I guess I and many will never be able compare. So I would have to say yes unless Provari can come up with something mind blowing @ a moderate price point ie $150.

In conclusion a resounding thumbs up and looking forward attaching more vaping hardware to this Bad Boy! 8)
 

dwcraig1

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Mar 17, 2012
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I just modded a Bud tank by increasing bore where wick goes through and added some of my now famous cotton dust mop wick. Why you ask, because my Nova tank will arrive tomorrow and if I can make this little POS work I can make the Nova tank work. Just a little moral building.

Oh, how does it work? It is still a Bud tank. ( actually much better):)
 
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MatrixTech

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Just got the SmokTech Viva tank, (Genesis style, but really isn't) I haven't used it as intended out of the box yet as all the reviews say don't waste your time. Thinking about drilling out the holes bigger in the tank and using mini mesh rod like a real Genesis...Has anyone been succesful with this yet?

If anyone has been looking at this tank, don't waste your money on like I did..Not now anyway, lol. I did buy it intending on modding it anyway
 

dwcraig1

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Mar 17, 2012
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Just got the SmokTech Viva tank, (Genesis style, but really isn't) I haven't used it as intended out of the box yet as all the reviews say don't waste your time. Thinking about drilling out the holes bigger in the tank and using mini mesh rod like a real Genesis...Has anyone been succesful with this yet?

If anyone has been looking at this tank, don't waste your money on like I did..Not now anyway, lol. I did buy it intending on modding it anyway
I had no expectations of it working well out of box and modding is also my reason for getting it, I have the mesh and wire, we will see. I was hoping to pick up some ideas from other folks modding the same tank but plenty of info in general out there.
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/fo...-tank-rebuildable-atomizer-7.html#post6839055
 

fuzzione

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Apr 11, 2012
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Bobbavet, nice review, thanks for contributing to the thread.

Shame about those ego threads; I would have expected the Stardusts to represent a no-nonsense fit.

As to showing off the vmax's prowess, I'd recommend buying a few 2.5 ST DC cartos. It is not a strong recommendation as I've had mixed results with these; many are simply duds. But the ones that worked well provided an awesome vape for me at around 5.5v on the max and this really does show off what the vmax is capable of. I realize everyone has opinions as to what cartos, ohms, DC's or SC's to use on the vmax. I'm just relating what has worked for me, particularly as a demonstration of the vmax's raw power. For the price of the cartos I think it's worth the experiment.

It's also surprising how often I use the built in ohm checker on the device, particularly when fiddling with my RBA where coil wrapping and related tinkering is greatly assisted by an instant readout of where the resistance sits after a given adjustment. So for this application it's actually quite handy.

Here's hoping you enjoy your new vmax for a long time to come.
 

mattkohl71

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Apr 13, 2012
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I'm going to be purchasing one of these at the beginning of next month... But the stupid "Version's" thing keeps throwing me off.

I really did want the Crystal Clear Vaping Vmax, as it comes with very good batteries (From what I've been told) but now there is another "new" version that I noticed. Supposed to have a better button, option to turn off LCD screen, and eGo threading (So the old versions can't have eGo style clearomizers?)

The only questions I really have, as I want the black color without a doubt, is will the earlier "versions" fit Sunfire clearomizers and other assorted tanks (Vivi Nova)? And does the Crystal Clear Vaping Vmax have the option of turning off the LCD screen?

I really wish this whole VV Mod thing was simpler... I have spent quite a few hours researching all the rebranded stuff to no end.

I've decided on a Black Vmax from Crystal Clear Vaping (Hopefully, if the answers to my questions are good) and the Mini Varitube X from Ivape.
 

Phoenix07013

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May 31, 2012
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HELP!!!!!! Lol
Plugged my wr188 charger
Heard a slight, faint, barely audible pop
Lights on charger went off

Of course I'm not going to use this anymore, and the slight bad taste left by the charger has me looking around for another charger.
What are your suggestions?
A. Just bite the bullet and get another wr188
B. I've been looking at the Sysmax i4 (annoyed by the v1, v2 debacle)
C. Pila charger
D. X-star I think

Any and all inputs are appreciated
 

bobbavet

Moved On
Jul 7, 2012
43
7
Australia
Bobbavet, nice review, thanks for contributing to the thread.

Shame about those ego threads; I would have expected the Stardusts to represent a no-nonsense fit.

Wait up, Cop has just shown me a pic and his does have the ability to screw a SD down into the top cap!

Mine appears to be a V3. I thought with the lateness of the order it was sure to be a V4.

Fair dinkum Smok and the Vendors need to get there .... together.

The vendors surely has to ask Smok "Why they are being sent the supposed "new SS Vmax" when clearly it is a previous revision?" or do vendors know and getting this stock cheaper to be sold as "The New SS Vmax"

Screwed 8/

Where'd ya get it Cop? Gonna order OS mate.
 
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bobbavet

Moved On
Jul 7, 2012
43
7
Australia
I'm going to be purchasing one of these at the beginning of next month... But the stupid "Version's" thing keeps throwing me off.

I really did want the Crystal Clear Vaping Vmax, as it comes with very good batteries (From what I've been told) but now there is another "new" version that I noticed. Supposed to have a better button, option to turn off LCD screen, and eGo threading (So the old versions can't have eGo style clearomizers?)

The only questions I really have, as I want the black color without a doubt, is will the earlier "versions" fit Sunfire clearomizers and other assorted tanks (Vivi Nova)? And does the Crystal Clear Vaping Vmax have the option of turning off the LCD screen?

I really wish this whole VV Mod thing was simpler... I have spent quite a few hours researching all the rebranded stuff to no end.

I've decided on a Black Vmax from Crystal Clear Vaping (Hopefully, if the answers to my questions are good) and the Mini Varitube X from Ivape.

Just do what I did. Get a 510/Ego adapter as back up.
 

MatrixTech

Super Member
ECF Veteran
Verified Member
HELP!!!!!! Lol
Plugged my wr188 charger
Heard a slight, faint, barely audible pop
Lights on charger went off

Of course I'm not going to use this anymore, and the slight bad taste left by the charger has me looking around for another charger.
What are your suggestions?
A. Just bite the bullet and get another wr188
B. I've been looking at the Sysmax i4 (annoyed by the v1, v2 debacle)
C. Pila charger
D. X-star I think

Any and all inputs are appreciated

I use the Xstar WP2, it's much cheaper and has alot of the same features of the Pila, plus it comes with a car charger..Pila doesn't:If you decide to get this one make sure to pick up a couple extra spacers (only comes with 2) and you need 2 spacers that screw into each bay For smaller batts..

XTAR WP2 Intelligent Charger: around 15-20$

SPECS:

-Two independent charging channel for 10440/14500/14650/14670/ 15270/ 16340/17670/.18350/18500/18650/18700.IMR and Lithium Ion 3.6/37. Volt Batteries.

-Algorithm charging system (CC/CV)

-2 spacers Included
-USB Output 5.0V 500mA maximum

-Real-time battery monitoring system.

-Constant charge current:500mA ± 10%.

-Constant charge Voltage:4.2V ± 1%.

-Adaptor input: 110V~240V AC 50/60Hz.
*Includes 12V Car adapter

*Includes 12V Wall adapter

*16340 or 18350 batteries require 2 XTAR spacers (sold separately per channel.
 
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muzichead

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Feb 7, 2011
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Hate to break it to you but the Provari had it's fair share of problems when it released and took a while to get it perfect. They just didn't rename it v2 v3 v4 untill they had to make the amp limit higher in efforts to keep up with devices like the VMax.

The VMax smokes the Provari...nuff said.

Never did I once say that the Provari didn't have problems.... I was just pointing out something that I have observed over the last several months and shared my opinion of a device that I thought I might want to own one day. But with all the problems people have posted about lately, I am glad I waited to make my decision on whether to purchase the Vmax or not....

You're too late. The vmax is already a resounding worldwide success with thousands of happy owners who all know better than your lame attempt to trash the device in an owner's thread. Go troll elsewhere.

Actually I'm not too late.... As I pointed out above, the Vmax clearly has some issues. Go back and read through this thread and you will see for yourself. I would beg to differ with you on the "resounding worldwide success" for vapers in general though with the Vmax. I would however say it is a "resounding worldwide success" for SmokTech though.... They are making a killing off everyone purchasing 3-4 different versions of the device in less than a year.... They are laughing all the way to the bank, I'm sure.... By the way, I will point it out for you again that I don't own a Provari and am not in the least bit a fanboy of any APV.... I am just someone that researches anything I want to purchase and like to be in the know as to whether any device I am going to purchase has any flaws or concerns..... Obviously the Vmax has some issues and all I was doing was sharing my opinion as to what some of them were.... Even one of your fellow Vmax Elite members has posted lately he has had 3 Vmax's go on the fritz in the last 2 months alone!!!! That would tell me there is a problem!!!! Your bias opinion just won't let you see that though....
 

Sigmatica

Full Member
Verified Member
Apr 21, 2012
42
12
Orange, CA
Hi everyone. I bought the vmax from Vaping Zone. They sent it with two 18350 "no name" batteries. Mine defaults to 5 volts, so I think I have a "good one". Problem is, the threads are crooked, the batteries only last two hours, and I'm not getting the "kick" everyone talks about. Do I just need different batteries? I found the E'Fests at Discount China Wholesale Efest IMR 18350 800mah 3.7V Limn batteries with Nipple [3041]- $4.65 - PowerWholeSale but I don't want to buy them if I just have a junk vMax. Any tips?

Thanks,

Doug

Guys,

Amazing news!!!
I got my eFests in today. All I can say is WOW. At 3.0 volts, my LR AVA and 1.5 Ohm DCC are kicking like rockstars!

This may be my go to vape from now on! I just wish I could get an extension tube so that my 18650 Panasonic CGH batts from the Co-Op could be put to excellent use :)

Thanks everyone for your suggestions.

Doug
 

MatrixTech

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Verified Member
Guys,

Amazing news!!!
I got my eFests in today. All I can say is WOW. At 3.0 volts, my LR AVA and 1.5 Ohm DCC are kicking like rockstars!

This may be my go to vape from now on! I just wish I could get an extension tube so that my 18650 Panasonic CGH batts from the Co-Op could be put to excellent use :)

Thanks everyone for your suggestions.

Doug


Nice!! i wasn't aware the default readout meant anything other than what version you might have..I know some of the different versions run a bit "hotter" and the PWM regulation is a bit off.. :) I've used 3 different brand IMR 18350s and only noticed a slight variance in longevity..I'm using the latest rev4 and it defaults to 3volt..and it def runs hot..but in a good way. Im sure they will get the calibration tuned in over time..
 
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AnsonJames

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The last thing anyone needs in this thread is any sort of pissing contest - it's been very civil so far.
It'll only take one heated exchange to escalate to close it down.

I was the person with three faulty Vmax's - a button issue, a faulty board and a loose ground wire.
My fix for the ground wire would be similar to the heads on Vision stone tank coils;
Vision Stone V3 inside.jpg

The one thing that can be said about Smok is that they're obviously checking the forums and are addressing issues as they occur but on saying that, I'm still not too happy about being an unpaid beta tester but at least I'm not out of pocket as every device has had a warranty which has been honored.

My advice to anyone that is unsure about buying a Vmax is to wait a little while for any issues to be resolved as I'm sure they will be.

I was asked by my vendor if I wanted another unit or a refund - I'm decided to get another Vmax but I'm also getting a Provari.

As Freddie used to say it doesn't matter what device you're using as long as you stay off the stinkies - as much as I like the Vmax I'm more concerned with not being put in the postion where my device fails and I feel the need to go down to the store to buy analogues.
 
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VAPNJ350

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Just got the SmokTech Viva tank, (Genesis style, but really isn't) I haven't used it as intended out of the box yet as all the reviews say don't waste your time. Thinking about drilling out the holes bigger in the tank and using mini mesh rod like a real Genesis...Has anyone been succesful with this yet?

If anyone has been looking at this tank, don't waste your money on like I did..Not now anyway, lol. I did buy it intending on modding it anyway


If you can hang tight and let me be the guinea pig since you did pay for yours and I didn't, mine will be here today, tomorrow at the latest. I've now got some decent experience with both "true Genny" SS mesh R.A.'s and silica style tank rebuilds. Every stardust, Smoktech SCT, eGo clearo, vision,etc... I've rebuilt "CORRECTLY" has been a night and day difference, so much so I built 4 flawlessly then mailed them out to all 4 creators/designers/manufacturers of them and showed them how it should be built to actually get ""FULL"" robust flavor and tons of vapor, including all my specs with it in detail....maybe they'll listen. Anyway, if you give me just a day or so I can suggest exactly what/how to modify it to get optimal flawless performance with NO need of "re-charging" the wick to keep the coil/coils wet to avoid burnt dry hits. It might save a wrong turn and losing the money invested. Just an offer.

In no way am I doubting your ability or skill level so please do NOT take this post as such...simply trying to aid a fellow VMAX owner/vaper in being able to use the Vivi to it's full potential...if it has one.lol
 

The Hill Giant

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If you can hang tight and let me be the guinea pig since you did pay for yours and I didn't, mine will be here today, tomorrow at the latest. I've now got some decent experience with both "true Genny" SS mesh R.A.'s and silica style tank rebuilds. Every stardust, Smoktech SCT, eGo clearo, vision,etc... I've rebuilt "CORRECTLY" has been a night and day difference, so much so I built 4 flawlessly then mailed them out to all 4 creators/designers/manufacturers of them and showed them how it should be built to actually get ""FULL"" robust flavor and tons of vapor, including all my specs with it in detail....maybe they'll listen. Anyway, if you give me just a day or so I can suggest exactly what/how to modify it to get optimal flawless performance with NO need of "re-charging" the wick to keep the coil/coils wet to avoid burnt dry hits. It might save a wrong turn and losing the money invested. Just an offer.

In no way am I doubting your ability or skill level so please do NOT take this post as such...simply trying to aid a fellow VMAX owner/vaper in being able to use the Vivi to it's full potential...if it has one.lol

I'm very interested to see this info as I would like to apply it to rebuilding the heads on my Vivi Novas. I have never rebuilt a head before, so I'm hoping you will get into gory details including exact materials used, etc. :)
 

fuzzione

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Never did I once say that the Provari didn't have problems.... I was just pointing out something that I have observed over the last several months and shared my opinion of a device that I thought I might want to own one day. But with all the problems people have posted about lately, I am glad I waited to make my decision on whether to purchase the Vmax or not....



Actually I'm not too late.... As I pointed out above, the Vmax clearly has some issues. Go back and read through this thread and you will see for yourself. I would beg to differ with you on the "resounding worldwide success" for vapers in general though with the Vmax. I would however say it is a "resounding worldwide success" for SmokTech though.... They are making a killing off everyone purchasing 3-4 different versions of the device in less than a year.... They are laughing all the way to the bank, I'm sure.... By the way, I will point it out for you again that I don't own a Provari and am not in the least bit a fanboy of any APV.... I am just someone that researches anything I want to purchase and like to be in the know as to whether any device I am going to purchase has any flaws or concerns..... Obviously the Vmax has some issues and all I was doing was sharing my opinion as to what some of them were.... Even one of your fellow Vmax Elite members has posted lately he has had 3 Vmax's go on the fritz in the last 2 months alone!!!! That would tell me there is a problem!!!! Your bias opinion just won't let you see that though....

You're accusing ME of bias? Do you even bother to read over your own posts? :unsure:
 

Topper

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You're too late. The vmax is already a resounding worldwide success with thousands of happy owners who all know better than your lame attempt to trash the device in an owner's thread. Go troll elsewhere.
That was funny :)
I've seen fans, but this is act like you are re-seller or some kind of paid fan ;)
"thousands of happy" - SmokTech sells a happiness. Maybe a problems are just world conspiracy of trolls :blink:
 

fuzzione

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That was funny :)
I've seen fans, but this is act like you are re-seller or some kind of paid fan ;)
"thousands of happy" - SmokTech sells a happiness. Maybe a problems are just world conspiracy of trolls :blink:

Nope. Not even close. Just a happy vmax owner who understands this has been a successful device. Problems? Sure. Every device has them, particularly new product launches. That's why you buy from a reputable seller who has a good exchange/return policy.

I've seen no solid evidence that the vmax fails any more or less than any other device out there. It's always easy to dig out the negative posts on any device thread and say 'it's no good.' Doesn't prove it one way or the other as this ignores the obvious....actual failure rate.
 
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