Yes. Confusing, isn't it?
Version 1.5 is manufactured by
Uniq and/or
Young June. That version has the original lavatube body design but uses upgraded internal electronics---with a 3.2 amp limit, resistance checking, and a battery-life remaining graphic with 0-5 bars. I, too, bought one of those, from
crystalclearvaping.com---$51.75 shipped.
Smokeforpennys.com also carries the Version 1.5, but only in full kit form for a higher price.
Version 3.0 is manufactured by
L-Rider and is, logically enough, their third version:
- Version 1.0: the original lavatube with a 2.5 amp limit, no resistance checking, locking voltage, and a digital display of remaining battery voltage activated by 7 clicks of the power button.
- Version 2.0: upgraded body finishes and the new-style metal end cap and eGo-style 510 connector, but still using the original (and much criticized) Version 1 electronics.
- Version 3.0: new body style with upgraded electronics providing a 4.0 amp limit and resistance checking (no more lockable voltage or 7-click digital battery remaining; now it uses the graphic battery indicator with bars, I think).
Version 3.0 is now available (currently in black only) at
vaporbeast.com in kit form with two 18650 high-drain batts, charger, Ming-style drip tip, and 2 atomizers (3.0 ohm). VaporBeast calls it the
Vector Variable Volt. Retail price for the kit is $68.99 shipped.
Given the relatively sudden appearance of two new Lavatubes from multiple manufacturers (with further refinements coming soon, no doubt), as well as the SmokTech Vmax, it appears that the Chinese are seriously cranked up to challenge the ProVari with less expensive knock-offs. And even if the ProVari remains king of the hill for many vapers (as it almost certainly will), I'm convinced that the Chinese will succeed in grabbing a major share of the higher-tech, multi-function VV market.
The next step down the road may be for the Chinese to go after Evolv and shift from regulated variable voltage to Darwin/Kick/DNA-style regulated variable wattage.
