Wednesday, 29 July 2020

*NEW E-LIQUID REVIEW* Digbys Custard Cream, Yet another delicious creation!

Big thanks to Digbys for supplying this eLiquid for the purpose of my review!

In terms of eLiquid manufacturers, Digbys has to be one of my longstanding favourites. The artisan feel to the overall design gives the eLiquids an air of effortless sophistication.
In keeping with the aesthetically pleasing exterior, Digbys eLiquids have been consistent in creating unique and well-designed flavours.
I have been lucky enough to have tried the vast majority of their eLiquids over the years, and my favourite would certainly be 'DMC', a decadent vanilla custard.
So when I found out that Digbys would be creating a custard cream inspired flavour, I felt the same touch of eager anticipation that I had when I first discovered 'DMC'.
Custard Cream is a brand new addition to the Digbys family, and it retains the smooth vanilla and wholesome cream notes found with DMC, as well as the perfect amount of sweetness. I find that there are far too many sub-par custard based flavours out there that taste both artificial and extremely sweet, to the point of them being sickly - but Custard Cream is not one of them!


On a standard sub-ohm tank, the overall flavour is a little subdued. I could pick up on a smooth, light vanilla, and the slightest touch of biscuit. However, I found that when using an RDA, the flavour was vastly amplified. The notes of vanilla cream were still there, but now a crumbly buttery biscuit flavour was becoming more prominent. 
I thought that the biscuit elements worked alongside the original custard notes really well. They brought a slight savoury feel that gave a solid base to allow the cream notes to really flourish.

Custard Cream is available in 50ml TPD compliant short fill bottles and comes in a 65:35 VG:PG ratio, so is suitable for sub ohm setups, including RBAs.

Overall, it goes without saying, that I thoroughly enjoyed this well excecuted flavour from Digbys. If you are a lover of dessert based eLiquids, but NOT a fan of sickeningly sweet flavours, then you're going to want to check this one out. >>>https://www.digbysjuices.co.uk/<<<

Monday, 22 June 2020

*HARDWARE REVIEW* DotAIO by DotMod


AIOs are becoming a dime a dozen in the vape world right now, and you gotta know where to look, or else you'll become completely befuddled by the insane amount of cheap, poor quality devices that are out there.
The big OG, the Billet Box, the one that's like gold dust, maybe even trickier to procure, is pretty much where it all started in terms of true AIOs (not pod systems)

Being a big fan of the Billet Box, I was a little hesitant to make the leap and purchase my first DotAIO. Especially as it had been colloquially and rather boldly hailed as the 'Billet Box Killer'. But boy, despite my initial doubts, I gave it a go! And for me, I feel that the DotAIO has completely obliterated the Billet Box!

DotMod have steadily gained a reputation as a company that takes the time to perfect a device before launching.
In terms of vaping creations, DotMod has hit the nail on the head every time. The incredible feeling of quality is overwhelmingly obvious, and you can be sure to notice the simple yet elegant finish to each and every device.
With the sheer level of quality and craftsmanship, DotMod set-ups are a little on the pricey side, but, in my starstruck eyes, they are certainly worth every penny.

I am lucky enough to own a couple DotMod devices, including the uber-popular DotAIO, of which I will be reviewing today.
My reviews have been, and will always be my own personal opinion. But I think everyone should love the DotAIO >.<

This kit measures in at just 78mm*43mm*22.5mm, a relatively average size for most AIOs. It takes a single 18650 to run (always practice battery safety!), offers quick charge via USB-C and has 4 power settings.
The cost of this device runs from about £60 with limited releases going as high as the £250+ mark.
When it comes to aesthetics, the DotAIO blows it out of the water! The colours and finishes that DotMod have created definitely give this device an air of luxury. It comes in a plethora of stunning colours, and a few limited edition colours too! Some of the more popular colours are matte black, red, gold, royal blue and Tiffany Blue. Depending on where you look, there will be a choice for everyone.
The majority of DotAIOs have subtle gold accents on the buttons and a DotMod logo.
This kit features removable panels that are usually held in place by small magnets, allowing users to clean or swap panels to different colours and materials, opening a world of endless customisations.

The DotAIO maintains a sense of refinement and satisfaction when held. The size of the device is rather smaller than the Billet Box, but this serves as a bonus for me, as I prefer the more delicate and dainty stature of the DotAIO.
One gripe I have with the ergonomics of this kit is that it is rather boxy. There is a slight ( and I mean slight) curve on the top and bottom. The rest has sharp lines and edges that I feel takes away from the overall look and feel to this mod.

In stark contrast with the Billet Box, and many other AIOs, the DotAIO does NOT have a display screen. DotMod has taken simplicity to a whole new level, and only requires users to choose from 4 power strengths; very soft, soft, medium and strong. This is done by pressing a small button near the bottom of the device, beneath the fire button. With no screen to display info on, the fire button has a backlight that will show different colours and combinations to indicate battery level, power level, errors and dry burn protection.

The TPD compliant tank holds 2ml of eliquid and has a pretty standard adjustable airflow ring. I really like how easy it is to remove, especially in comparison to the Boro tanks in Billet Boxes that require you to unscrew the drip tip ring.

The drip tips that you receive in the box offer vapers a fairly diverse choice. The first one (that will be installed in the device as standard) is a curved, almost tapered shape and is a gorgeous, shiny gold. This tip allows an airier inhale and for me, it was ideal for a true DTL.
The second drip tip is far narrower and crafted out of ultem, therefore a similar colour scheme as the gold accents on the DotAIO. This tip is perfect for restricted DTL, and gives a warmer inhale.
The DotAIO works with a selection of stock coils, including both DotMod and Aspire Nautilus coils (you will need the adapter that comes with the device to use Aspire coils) Flavour very much depends on what coils you are using, but I found that the DotMod 0.3 coils produced the most satisfying and flavoursome hit. There are also several RBA options, including my personal favourite, the Atmizoo DotShell.
The DotShell really makes this device stand above the crowd, and I will aim to get a review of it up shortly.

It goes without saying, that the DotAIO can handle pretty much any eliquid that is thrown in there. My preference would be 20mg/ml 50/50 nic salts, but there's nothing stopping you from putting high VG, low nic eliquids in there (although I'd recommend using an RBA deck for thicker liquids)

Battery life is decent, and a full charge lasts me about a day of moderate usage.


PROS
High quality construction
Lots of options for coils
Easy to customise
Easy to remove the tank/pod
Simple design

CONS
A little on the expensive side
I would like to have a display screen

Overall, I would highly recommend this kit. Admittedly, it is a little pricey, but I feel it's far more worth it to purchase one decent AIO rather than a bunch of poor quality, poor performance devices.

peace xx

Sunday, 17 November 2019

An old favourite, with NEW flavours *NEW E-LIQUID REVIEW*

Big thanks to Digbys for kindly sending me these flavours for the purpose of this review

You can check out their site for all the latest flavours  https://www.digbysjuices.co.uk/

As you may or may not know, Digbys' DMC, was one of my first ever favourite flavours, back when I had just transitioned from an ego style set up, to a sub-ohm kit. It was a deliciously rich vanilla bean custard, so when I was approached and asked if I wanted to review their new limited edition Christmas flavour, I agreed straight away.

When I received my package, they had kindly included two more flavours for me to try.

Black Moriya
An intense, revitalising flavour, Moriya is sure to clear your sinuses.   Even when opening the bottle, a blast of sharp, icy and refreshing menthol meets your nostrils.  
When it comes to actually vaping this liquid, I found the menthol notes to be a little more subdued than the scent suggested, yet still rather noticeable.
After the initial hit of menthol, a rich and juicy blackcurrant becomes apparent that not only compliments the menthol tones but perfectly encompasses them.
Mostly, I enjoyed this flavour, however, I still felt that the menthol was still a little strong. Having said that, this review is completely subjective, and those of you who prefer menthol based eliquids will probably find that they thoroughly enjoy Black Moriya.





Oliver's Twist
This twisty concoction offers vapers a medley of ripe and full tasting flavours that are well matched to one another.   I found that this eLiquid really accentuates standard fruity elements designed to make your mouth water.  There is a wonderful mixture of sour and zesty citrus fruits and a rather milder touch of a sweet berry, that all combine to create a well rounded and complex flavour.
I thought that the obvious lack of icy or mentholated additives actually made me enjoy this eLiquid more than if it had a cool edge to it.
Even without menthol, Oliver's Twist still managed to present itself as an impressively refreshing set of flavours.



And the Pièce de Résistance...
Red Bread
As the name suggests, this stunner of a flavour is a festive favourite for so many of us. Digbys has set out to create the ultimate Christmas eLiquid, and have done brilliantly.
At first, there is an obvious and somewhat spicy gingerbread kick that tastes absolutely spot on in terms of flavour and its likeness to an actual gingerbread biscuit. It has the perfect amount of warming ginger, and subtly sweet, crumbly biscuit. As I exhaled, there was a smooth, creamy vanilla edge that made the sharper notes a bit more well rounded. I liked the way that the two main flavours interacted with each other and the way that they were complementary in terms of taste.
Over the years, I have grown to dislike many blueberry flavoured eLiquids, mainly due to the fact that my first year as a vaper, all I would vape, was blueberry liquids. Having overdone it, I have consistently steered away from these kinds of flavours. I think that the main reasoning behind my dislike would be that many come across as harsh and artificial.
BUT! The blueberry in Red Bread is an uber-realistic take on the real deal. 
It has just enough potency to offer vapers a slight touch of something I can only describe as a sweet blueberry jam. At no point did I find this eLiquid to be too sweet nor did I find it lacking in flavour, and therefore I must say this is the perfect Christmas time vape.

Friday, 2 August 2019

*HARDWARE REVIEW* eLeaf Tance Pod System

Firstly, can I thank UKVB for sending out this device for the purpose of this review.



The eLeaf Tance is a small, compact pod system that comes in several striking colours, and is carefully designed to offer vapers the chance to utilise this vape on the go.
Weighing just 55 grams (not including eliquid), the Tance is going to be your go-to when it comes to practicality and ease of use. In terms of its size, the Tance measures a discreet and unassuming 24mm in width, 14mm in thickness and 95.5mm in height.
The build quality on this device is certainly impressive, despite its small stature, the Tance feels substantial and well designed. It fits fantastically in the palm of your hand, adding an extra edge to its user-friendly demeanour.

As with most pod systems, the Tance does not have an adjustable wattage feature, but it runs up to 10watts, a perfect amount for mouth to lung vaping. It notices resistance ranges from 0.3ohms all the way up to 3ohms, giving you a wide window for your personal preferences.
With a battery capacity of 580mAh, you can expect a moderate length of usage, however, this is rather average when compared to other similar devices.

As a TPD compliant device, the Tance's pods hold a maximum of 2ml of eliquid, although one pod's worth of liquid will last you longer than if you were vaping 2ml on a sub-ohm setup.

This kit is extremely straightforward to use, making it a good choice for new vapers, as well as experienced vapers that are after a more subtle and inconspicuous vaping experience.

As far as the actual act of vaping this device, I found it delivered a moderately strong hit (I was using 20mg nic salts), relatively average cloud production for a pod system and an impressive amount of flavour that I was not expecting.


PROS
- I was pleased with how well built and substantial this device was to hold
- The flavour that this kit offered was very surprising for a non-subohm setup
- The minute size of this kit means that it is ideal for using out and about


CONS
- The battery life could be a little longer, although it is still decent

Overall, a very decent contender for anyone looking to purchase a pod kit, especially when used in conjunction with high nicotine eliquids and salt nicotine eliquids.

Saturday, 15 June 2019

Is vaping changing for me?

With my recent acquirement of the Lost Vape Orion Q and various nic salts, I have found myself increasingly partial to the quick, no-nonsense approach that this type of vaping offers.
I'm not supposed to vape inside where I live, however the discreet nature of MTL pod vaping leaves little to no evidence when used stealthily.
So, in the last few months, have got a whole host of different devices.
Currently, my top 3 would have to be:


Lost Vape Orion Q



















Aspire AVP
Artery Pal II






Saturday, 1 June 2019

The Wismec Luxotic Surface


Possibly one of the smallest single 18650 regulated squonkers out there, the Luxotic Surface still packs a hefty punch.
This mod comes in a variety of sleek and whimsical colour schemes and the one that I received was a stunning pattern of black and purple.
In terms of size and weight, this kit is a mere 131.8 grams and has a height of 78mm and a width of 25.5mm. It has a simple yet well-designed shape, and it fits very nicely in the palm of your hand.
The Surface boasts a substantially sized and soft squonk bottle, that has a capacity of 6.5ml, reducing the frequency at which you will need to refill. It is crafted out of food grade silicone.
As I mentioned previously, this kit is a single 18650 device, and can comfortably reach wattages of up to 80 watts. The Surface has simple up and down buttons to adjust the wattage and is displayed on a 0.49inch OLED screen.

One of the things I most appreciated about this mod was the number of different output modes there is. Not only do you get the standard variable wattage mode, but also a bypass mode and several temperature control modes.
In terms of a readable coil resistance range, the Surface can handle anything between 0.05ohms, all the way up to 3.5ohms.

Now, despite this device's small stature, it still has the incredible potential to pack quite a punch. I have been using a single coil BF RDA, running at 0.35 ohms and pushed up to 50watts. You really do get a decent, flavourful and warm vape at these settings.
Even running at 50watts, and using it rather consistently, I found the battery to last a fair amount of time.

Another feature I noticed and appreciated, was the removable base, allowing you to easily and safely remove the squonk bottle to refill it reducing the risk of leakage or spillage.

Probably my favourite thing about this mod would probably be the minute nature, as it fits perfectly in a handbag or pocket, making it ideal for being out and about.
Overall, a fantastic piece of kit, suitable for both vaping veterans, as well as vapers who are looking to start squonking.


I would like to thank UKVB for sending this device out to me to review.




Thursday, 23 May 2019

Eleaf iTap Pod System

Pod systems are all the rage at the moment in the vaping industry, and rightly so. They are small, discreet, user friendly and can appeal to both seasoned vapers, and newcomers alike.
The iTap from eLeaf is an ideal option for MTL vaping, as well as tight DTL inhales too.



SPECS

Size: 20.0*16.0*102.3mm
Weight: 42.7g
Liquid capacity: 2ml
Battery capacity: 800mAh
Output wattage: 30W max
Resistance range: 0.4Ω-3.0Ω

BOX CONTENTS

1×iTap battery
1×iTap cartridge
1×GS Air S 1.6ohm Head
1×GS Air 0.75ohm Head
1×QC USB Cable
1×User Manual

The iTap is a simple to use yet effective pod system designed with great care and includes features such as replaceable coil heads, adjustable airflow and dry burn protection.

The iTap currently comes in 3 colours, matte black, blue and a brushed silver.

Battery-wise, the iTap boasts a decent 800mAh internal battery, and seemed to last me about half a day of moderated usage. A light indicates battery level, as follows, a green light means 100%-60%, blue is 59% - 20% and red is 0%-19% .

Ergonomically, the mouth piece is very effective, and it's relatively unique shape proves to be extremely comfortable when inhaling. It is an average size in terms of pod systems, and fits nicely in your grasp. There is a satisfying weight to this kit, and does not feel flimsy nor too bulky.

The iTap can take GS Air coils, and the GS Air S 1.6ohm coils are constructed using SS316L, meaning that is ideal for MTL vaping, and high nicotine eLiquids. One of the defining features of this kit would be the way it utilises a dry burn protection when vaping, reducing the risk of getting a burnt coil.

The base of the pod itself features an adjustable airflow ring, making both tight and loose draws possible. Personally, I enjoyed using the tighter inhale, as it increased the throat hit.
The pod has the standard 2ml capacity, and is conveniently filled through holes in the bottom.

Eleaf has decided to include some important safety features on this kits, including, over charge protection, over discharge protection, over current protection, 15s cut off and short circuit protection too. 

Overall, the iTap was a great all rounder if you are looking at purchasing a pod kit. Lets have a look at the positives and negatives I came across...


Pros
There was a satisfying hit when using the 1.6ohm GS Air coil
I really appreciated the adjustable airflow
Flavour was decent, even for a MTL setup

Cons
Battery life was not amazing, however it charged fairly quickly.
It would have been nice to have a slightly larger selection of colours




With thanks to UKVB for sending this kit to me to review honestly and pragmatically