Deciding between Volcano and Aromed

[imsrslyuguys]

I decided I'd put an order in for a vaporizer today. I've already done lots of research and I've narrowed down my options to either the Aromed or the Volcano.

These are the pros and cons of each that concern me:

Aromed
Pros

• Better quality vapor
• Cleanest heat source
• Healthier
• Visual/audio feedback
• Can use at your own pace
• Less expensive

Cons

• Looks very medical (visually not very pleasing)
• Awkward to pull out in a social scenario
• Very fragile parts
• High maintenance to clean
• Expensive to replace parts
• Makes a bubbling noise (is this loud?, I'm guessing it's not too loud)
• Setting up for a vape session seems like somewhat of an inconvenience especially with the fragile glass parts
• No expense to operate other than replacing bulb which I hear lasts quite a while and is cheap.

Volcano
Pros

• Can fill up a bag and use it for 8 hours
• Easy to use
• Visually pleasing
• Is a party toy
• Sturdy parts that need little maintenance/cleaning
• Less work to set up

Cons

• Seems loud
• After 8 hours the vapor goes stale
• People say the vapor is more dry/harsh than with the Aromed
• More expensive
• Bags need to be replaced (expense)

Anyways with all that said, I need help deciding. I am SO confused as to what I should get. My biggest concern right now would be finding out which one is more EFFICIENT. Which one will give me more sessions for the same amount of herb?

If anyone has first hand experience with these products these are my main questions right now:

1. How efficient are the products?
2. How hard it is to clean both products and how often?
3. What's the difference in terms of vapor taste/quality/feel between bag and whip?
4. Can I leave herb in the Aromed, turn it on and take a pull whenever I want to?
5. I know bongs start looking disgusting after regular use, does the Aromed bottle develop a lot of brown residue?

I've NEVER tried a vaporizer so I'm not sure how the feel of whip or bag differs. I know these are expensive and are not most people's first vaporizer but I'm the type of person that likes to make investments for the long term gain.

Thanks guys

 

[max]

I disagree with quite a few of your points as to accuracy. Some are just opinions and IMO not very objective ones.

Better quality vapor

I can get the same quality vapor from a homemade light bulb vape. There is no such thing as 'better quality' when it comes to vapor. Spending more $ will usually make it easier for the user, but vaporization is a simple process. A $100 Vapolution will produce the same vapor as either of these models, and give you an all glass vapor path to boot. It'll just take more attention and practice to master it.

Healthier

That would just be marketing BS or someone's opinion. There's no evidence to support it.

Very fragile parts

Never heard of that complaint from any Aromed owners and I'm very familiar with the design and have read many user reviews.

Expensive to replace parts

It's highly unlikely that you'd have to replace any parts other than the halogen bulb.

Can fill up a bag and use it for 8 hours

Vapor condenses and dissipates. You lose vapor with every min. that goes by. Someone's telling fairy tales with the 8 hr. bit.

Can I leave herb in the Aromed, turn it on and take a pull whenever I want to?

You say you've done lots of research. Then you should know that you apply the heat to the bowl. You can leave the vape on if you want and just remove the heat. Even leaving the heater connected won't cook the bowl contents as much as most models since it's above the herb instead of below.

As for efficiency it's mostly up to the user no matter the model. Some designs make it easier to use less and some encourage you to use more, but it's certainly possible to use most designs efficiently if that's your goal. I will say that between these two, you'd find it easier to control how much you use with the Aromed since it's easy to add or remove the heat source from the bowl. I've wasted vapor more than once with a bag filler by miscalculating how much I needed to load. Once you fill a bag you're committed to using the vapor. The longer it sits in the bag the less there'll be for later. There's also a tendency to load more in this type of vape.

Both of these models are quite old in the vaporizer world. They're both high quality though and either should give you good service. Bag fill only is a big drawback though and top rate dual mode models have been available for years now. Most people who enjoy the vaporizing experience end up choosing some form of direct draw instead of using bags. Quite a few whip designs (basically what the Aromed is) are just as good as the Aromed and much less expensive.

If I found myself without a single vape neither one of these would make it to my prospective buying list. Many top rate models have hit the market since these two were market leaders. If you're set on 'either or' though, I'd go with the Aromed. It'll provide more control over how much you use and direct draw always provides fresher vapor vs sucking from a bag.

 

[imsrslyuguys]

I can get the same quality vapor from a homemade light bulb vape. There is no such thing as 'better quality' when it comes to vapor.

By quality I meant the feel. I've used a lightbulb vape before and it's pretty nasty. I've watched/read a lot of reviews and people say the aromed is very smooth and cool because of the filtration. But I understand what you mean, most vapes get the job done. I decided I'd open my options again.

That would just be marketing BS or someone's opinion. There's no evidence to support it.

Just thinking logically, a convection system will always have some dust buildup and that dust will get blown by the fan. The light system builds less dust and the filtration takes it out anyways so I just kind of assumed it's healthier.

Never heard of that complaint from any Aromed owners and I'm very familiar with the design and have read many user reviews.

They're thin glass parts so they most definitely are fragile. A LOT of people have chipped their parts as far as I've read.

It's highly unlikely that you'd have to replace any parts other than the halogen bulb.

I know it's unlikely but you have to factor it in.

Vapor condenses and dissipates. You lose vapor with every min. that goes by. Someone's telling fairy tales with the 8 hr. bit.

Yea this is more the kind of stuff I wanted to know . If that's the case I'd probably prefer the whip.

Anyways thanks for the reply, I'm gonna look into whip vapes a little more then come to a conclusion.

 

[MinnBobber]

Just my opinion but both of these seem a little "complex" in their design use---either having to attach a bag or separate pieces of Aromed.
I recently searched and searched and got a miniVAP which is in same price range as these but a single unit and simple , reliable, med grade device. It was created in Spain for med MJ rsearch, to give the best possible delivery of vaped MJ.
It is like the best of desktop married to best of portable. The battery is good for 3 hours on low heat, less time on high heat. You can also buy an AC puck that attaches, to use as plug-in/ desktop.
It is convection heat with great temp control. It has 3 useable heat ranges, only negative is that I wish it had more but realistically not needed.
Short vapor path for little condensation loss. Great flavor from buds.
No water standard like on Aromed but currently looking at cheap bubbler like D020 or small EHLE to possibly add. MFLB water whip can be attached in MV outlet to connect to water.
Vapornation has them for $519 (MSRP of about $850). They often have storewide sale too.
I'm biased in the sense that I love my MV but you may want to consider it.

Vapefeind on youtube has a good video review of it. He basically says same--best of desktop and portable mixed together.
Not portable like in a pocket but in backpack.
Plus, needs almost no cleaning. Put herbs in small pollen basket and empty ABV material after use. Had mine a month and still spotless.

 

[RUDE BOY]

Just thinking logically, a convection system will always have some dust buildup and that dust will get blown by the fan. The light system builds less dust and the filtration takes it out anyways so I just kind of assumed it's healthier.

These are Both convection vaporizers the valcano pushes hot air through the herbs, with the aromed you pull hot air through the herbs.

Both these units are really good at what they do but with quickly changing technology in the 21st century they are both rooted in the 20th century. Yes they were both benchmark devices but very far from being the be all and end all for the vaporizing experience as they once were.

 

[imsrslyuguys]

These are Both convection vaporizers the valcano pushes hot air through the herbs, with the aromed you pull hot air through the herbs.

Both these units are really good at what they do but with quickly changing technology in the 21st century they are both rooted in the 20th century. Yes they were both benchmark devices but very far from being the be all and end all for the vaporizing experience as they once were.

Sorry i misunderstood the meaning of convection then. I thought convection meant there is a fan blowing the air.

Also what would you recommend then? I'm basically looking for a reliable stationary unit that can give me the most out of my bud. I'd also like it to be something that isn't TOO hard to clean and doesn't have to be cleaned too often. I'm impartial to price IF THE DIFFERENCE IS WORTH IT IN THE LONG RUN.

From reading the comments I guess these two I was looking at are outdated now. I'm currently looking into the extreme q which seems to be the standard well priced bang for your buck stationary vape.

 

[lwien]

Just to add a bit of perspective here, I found that the vapor in a bag begins to weaken and start to taste kinda nasty after about 4 minutes. I do know that the vapor begins to go stale and begins to condense as soon as it enters that bag.

For me, I don't like bag vapes or vapes that use long whips simply because that plastic and silicone not only adds internal surface area for condensation to occur but more importantly, the plastic and silicone material can add a taste of it's own. I much prefer an all glass vapor path or at least as close to it as possible.

From reading the comments I guess these two I was looking at are outdated now. I'm currently looking into the extreme q which seems to be the standard well priced bang for your buck stationary vape.

If you're looking for "bang for your buck", make sure that you don't leave out either the HerbalAire 2.0 or the Vapolution 2.0.

One other thing. You implied in your original post that efficiency was at the top of your priority list and if that's the case, look into the log vapes such as the Underdog, the HI and the E-Nano. While it's true that most vapes can be made and with some attention, be used in an efficient manner, the logs will aid a LOT in that undertaking.

 

[imsrslyuguys]

Just my opinion but both of these seem a little "complex" in their design use---either having to attach a bag or separate pieces of Aromed.
I recently searched and searched and got a miniVAP which is in same price range as these but a single unit and simple , reliable, med grade device. It was created in Spain for med MJ rsearch, to give the best possible delivery of vaped MJ.

I know I'll have to get a portable vaporizer eventually. But this thing costs $500 and is portable wouldn't it be better to get a cheaper stationary one that is better (obviously I don't know how good it is actually) and another cheaper portable? For example, get an arizer extreme q and solo or something? (net $400)

 

[RUDE BOY]

I would steer you toward log style vapes like the Underdog or the e nano to start with.

But really what may serve you better is to go to the 'Plug in vaporizer section' and read a bit of the first 2 pages or so and you'll know what's newer and popular here, see what catches your eye as their are now many styles of vapes. I have met people that still swear by their 'cano and I would still pick up an aromed for myself if the price was right.

 

[luchiano]

These are Both convection vaporizers the valcano pushes hot air through the herbs, with the aromed you pull hot air through the herbyears oth these units are really good at what they do but with quickly changing technology in the 21st century they are both rooted in the 20th century. Yes they were both benchmark devices but very far from being the be all and end all for the vaporizing experience as they once were.

True but, I have yet to find a vaporizer that gives exact temperature on the first inhale, and maintains it throughout the rest of the inhale, and makes sure this temperature is exactly that inside the bowl of the herbas the air is going through it. I really don't know why companies aren't trying to do this. The herbalizer is the only one that comes close being that its temperature stays within 5 degrees and reacts quickly being that it uses a halogen lightbulb. I guess most companies make products for users who may not care about wanting exact temperature within the bowl, they just want a nice cloud and good taste with a nice effect as long as there is no burning.

I want it because I don't want any degradation of the plant substances and as pure as can be, and very little condensation so that means I have to start around 160f and slowly raise the temperature in 5-10 degree increments until I get to around 430-446f. Its nice that the aromed cools down after every puff so the herb won't keep cooking when you stop inhaling, and this helps keep degradation from happening as the session continues for a while. I also would like a small water filter to keep the air from being too hot , dry and irritate my lungs. This is especially needed for long session when I'm vaping herb in high amounts and the session last a long time. I also like the fact hat I can easily replace the heater when necessary for a very cheap price as well as the heater is so far away from the electronic parts that there is no chance of heat from the bulb effecting the electronics.

It all comes down to what's important to you and what you think has a long future because if you spend a lot of money, it would be dumb to buy something that breaks down in a few years and you may not have the money to buy a new vaporizer.

 

[imsrslyuguys]

Looking for some quick advice. I've been doing some more research and I think I'm leaning on the Da Buddha. I decided I don't care much for the bags, so I just want a good quality/well priced unit. I'm sort of exclusively looking at the selection from this website: Toronto Vaporizer
because they give a free $50 grinder which I also need as mine is very old and cheap.

 

[tennstrong]

Have not used the aromed but I'd say they are 2 completely different categories. If you don't have/intend on starting a glass collection I'd definitely say wait for a deal on a used volcano, the bags hit better than people expect and it's dope if you are chilling with a group. I have also used something similar to the aromed (sublimator) which are both much more intended for water pipe use (although the sublimator steamroller-whip style chamber hits amazing). Completely off subject personal experience- sublimator hits were fat but used tons of herb, I didn't pack volcano but I heard it used a lot. IMO go get a LSV from what I've heard/read on the unit/heating element (if you have a water pipe collection), and this is coming from a guy who's also owned a Underdog. The SSV and DaBuddha use the same element (could be mistaken) so if you're more into whips you could go that route. If not, save your damn cash and get a vapolution 2.0 for 100 bucks which I've heard is a great cheap plugin.

 

[VapeVoice]

The Da Buddha is a great unit, but it does take some playing with to get used to. You are more likely to combust with the Buddha than other models. After reading your post it seems like you aren't very familiar with vaping styles. For this reason I would recommend the Herbalaire 2.0. It can be used direct draw (like a log), Whip style (like the buddha, aromed etc.), and can blow bags (like the volcano). It really is a reliable vaporizer that will let you try all 3 styles and help you choose which you like the best. And heck you'd save enough money buying the HA that you could use the left over and grab yourself a Solo to have a good reliable portable option as well. Good luck in your choice!!

 

[max]

I think I'm leaning on the Da Buddha.

One of the best vape buys on the market. Now you're getting into the 'real world' of vaporizers, where you don't have to spend a lot of $ to get quality. You just have to figure out what suits you.

You are more likely to combust with the Buddha than other models.

That's kind of a sweeping generalization. I can name quite a few other vapes that are much harder to control temp on vs. the DBV. I used one for a time and the very similar SSV (yes the heating element is the same) for much longer, and never combusted with either, even while sometimes playing around at higher temps. Keep the temp dial at a lower setting and it should never be a concern.

 

[Herr_Dampf]

That's kind of a sweeping generalization. I can name quite a few other vapes that are much harder to control temp on vs. the DBV. I used one for a time and the very similar SSV (yes the heating element is the same) for much longer, and never combusted with either, even while sometimes playing around at higher temps. Keep the temp dial at a lower setting and it should never be a concern.

I can only second that. The DBV was my first unit, deliverd to me a day before new year. I kinda got ready for a long and painfull learning phase, set everything up, loaded my first wand and... got some really nice (allthough not to dense) and tasty vapor at my first hits. I never combusted until I started to look how far I can push it.

 

[VapeVoice]

One of the best vape buys on the market. Now you're getting into the 'real world' of vaporizers, where you don't have to spend a lot of $ to get quality. You just have to figure out what suits you.

That's kind of a sweeping generalization. I can name quite a few other vapes that are much harder to control temp on vs. the DBV. I used one for a time and the very similar SSV (yes the heating element is the same) for much longer, and never combusted with either, even while sometimes playing around at higher temps. Keep the temp dial at a lower setting and it should never be a concern.

That is why I recommended the HA for this user. He doesn't know what style he will like best and I've never heard of anyone combusting with it. While you may have never combusted with the DBV, MANY others have. It is a minor issue, because you do get the hang of it rather quickly. The DBV is an excellent vape, don't get me wrong. I just think the HA would suit this particular user better and let him try three different styles with only one unit.

 

[Wizsteve]

i own a volcano and it works great but i wanted for a different reason the huge bowl which allows one to vape more than just bud trimings and sugar leaves work great in them also hash oil and wax.

you find a volcano around 299 if you watch ebay.


that being said i still would like to own aromed be a nice piece to be by the bed lowest price i found so far was at overstock.com (the world is changing when did overstock started carrying vapes ? next we will see them on the home shopping network lol)

 

[max]

While you may have never combusted with the DBV, MANY others have.

My point was that it's easily avoidable. All it takes is staying out of high temp territory. A vape like the Vapolution takes some care and practice in order to avoid overcooking, but all the DBV takes is proper control of the temp dial. The 7th Floor vapes have a very high temp ceiling, and that's what gets people into trouble.

The herbalAire is an excellent option (used one myself for a couple of years), but the day prior to your suggestion he stated "I decided I don't care much for the bags, so I just want a good quality/well priced unit." If you're not interested in bags then the DBV is generally considered preferable to the HA for getting rich hits. I certainly preferred either 7th Floor product for direct draw. I ended up using the HA only for bag fill. It does do better for whip hits when you use water filtration, but most models do.

 

[VapeVoice]

My point was that it's easily avoidable. All it takes is staying out of high temp territory. A vape like the Vapolution takes some care and practice in order to avoid overcooking, but all the DBV takes is proper control of the temp dial. The 7th Floor vapes have a very high temp ceiling, and that's what gets people into trouble.

The herbalAire is an excellent option (used one myself for a couple of years), but the day prior to your suggestion he stated "I decided I don't care much for the bags, so I just want a good quality/well priced unit." If you're not interested in bags then the DBV is generally considered preferable to the HA for getting rich hits. I certainly preferred either 7th Floor product for direct draw. I ended up using the HA only for bag fill. It does do better for whip hits when you use water filtration, but most models do.

He made that decision based on other users opinions. I find its always better to try things and form my own. So wanted him to know about this option.