Arizer Solo

[pakalolo]

This is hilarious. First, the setup:

You can have whatever opinion you want. I dont care to discuss it any further with you.

Now the punchline:

I don't feel better at all. I feel annoyed that people post here and apply terms like shady, ripped off, exploitative, etc. to a company that has a huge number of posts here praising them for quality of both manufacturing and service, all excused by "It's my opinion."

Boo hoo. Dry your eyes

It's the ethos, not manufacturing or service that's the problem. I don't see the same levelled at magic flight. Lessons should be taken. MF manage to maintain a healthy MAP, and still have great company ethos and clear and simple warranty policy.... and happy, satisfied, grateful customers.

You know what, I do need to dry my eyes, but they're tears of laughter.

I'm not the one crying, it's those who have been throwing around derogatory terms without substance because they want a cheap deal that Arizer won't give them. You were the one crying that Arizer wouldn't provide you the information that you want so that you can specifically not buy from them.

If you want to shift ground to ethos because you can't justify attacks on service or manufacturing quality, go right ahead. Again, there are plenty of posts in the Arizer threads praising Arizer's ethics, quite similar to the ones in the Magic-Flight thread.

 

[WatTyler]

This is hilarious. First, the setup:

You know what, I do need to dry my eyes, but they're tears of laughter.

I'm not the one crying, it's those who have been throwing around derogatory terms without substance because they want a cheap deal that Arizer won't give them. You were the one crying that Arizer wouldn't provide you the information that you want so that you can specifically not buy from them.

If you want to shift ground to ethos because you can't justify attacks on service or manufacturing quality, go right ahead. Again, there are plenty of posts in the Arizer threads praising Arizer's ethics, quite similar to the ones in the Magic-Flight thread.

I had no intention of replying but your subsequent post about 'people' was so clearly meaning me I could not resist. What did you really expect? I actually think you find a reaction quite gratifying for some reason, as you couldn't let it go. But it's hardly a big deal...is it really that funny to you? Get out more. Life can be much more entertaining than that.

Shift ground? Wake up. For me this has always been about ethos. I have never said otherwise- and it came about through your own self righteous indignation and confrontational tone at my simple suggestion that Rockwise and Arizer are in cahoots- which they clearly are. There's no concieveable reason why they can not release this simple power supply more widely than just Rockwise. I have no real problem buying Arizer products, obviously, but resent being forced into a position of using a single overseas retailer. I would have bought the supply with the unit if the thing was available so don't try and tell me that I'm 'crying' about not wanting to buy an Arizer product- you're wrong again and have missed the point with your assumptions. I don't want to buy from Rockwise with excessive charges- 'how hard is that for you to grasp'? My ONLY alternative is to find the specifications and buy my own. It's trying to manipulate the market. I do not like this ethos, and it doesn't generate the love that Magic Flight spread. When you have a vaporizer that you can't use to it's full design potential because of apparent market exploitation, maybe then I will care for your opinions on this issue a little more. Until then I really don't. You're not at all helpful in this thread.

I really have no interest in continuing an online argument. Have the last word if you wish (but please make it short if so). I will do my damnedest to ignore you. Try and not get too excited if I don't though- it's no biggie. Ball is in your court.

 

[vape4life]

That would make perfect sense. I agree completely, and I think it can't be harmful due to the way the airflow goes, if it goes from atmosphere to around the bowl, and inside. the smell is definitely coming from the holes or outside of the heater. My wife said it smelled like a hot plate lol I'm starting to wonder if it has an effect on the taste of the vapor as sometimes it tastes kind of gross but maybe i'm just imagining things. There have been a couple in here stating that the vapor has a different taste or something?

So if the smell was one thing, I now see a "chip" in the inside of the ceramic bowl. It's about 1/8th" wide and there is another one although just a dot near it. I haven't done any mods or anything i'm not supposed to with regular use. I do have a couple of light scuff marks and the bottom is kinda scratched from wear and the serial number is about 50% faded now.

WRITE DOWN YOUR SERIAL NUMBER!!!

After some testing with my old extreme Q at my friends house, I can assure you the smell my solo makes is the same smell as my extreme currently makes, and I'm almost certain it is the smell of the heater insulation fabric as I've changed it and noticed the smell more strongly immediately after a change (due to broken heater cover). It's distinctly familiar and I can't say it's anywhere near the sour smells of burning rubber or plastic, and it doesn't smell too 'toxic'. I wonder if arizer would answer what this 'heat resistant' fabric is made out of, to provide some more answers?

In other news, my solo served me wonderfully for an out of town trip with my girlfriend for our anniversary. Tons of clean vapor on the hotel balcony, in the car, out and about, and even in vapor lounges where volcanos were available; the solo was the thicker tastier vapor. I hope this smell is nothing more serious than just a smell, It is faint enough I can not even detect in in a hit. I still find the solo without a bong to be the fullest flavour out of any vaporizer due to thickness and closeness to the tongue. The ergonomics are so perfect too- if it's just a harmless smell that's there when you're sticking your nose up to it I'll be fine with that.

Oh, and I haven't been able to keep my solo free of dings and scratches. It has plenty of character nowadays!

 

[OhTheAgony]

Writing down that serial nr is a good idea, perhaps you could even take a picture of it you can keep as 'evidence' now that it's still readable.

Would you mind posting a photo of the damage you mention Vape4life?

 

[vape4life]

As techsavvy as I thought I was, I have no idea how to post pics here, but would be more than happy to email one to you if you contact me. Either that or some very basic instructions on how to post a pic here

Writing down that serial nr is a good idea, perhaps you could even take a picture of it you can keep as 'evidence' now that it's still readable.

Would you mind posting a photo of the damage you mention Vape4life?

 

[OhTheAgony]

You need to upload your photo to a hosting site first before you can copy and paste the url here between image tags. The tags come up automaticly if you click the little image (looks like a poloraid picture to me) above this windows right underneath the emoticon.

I use imageshack(.us) myself but there are numerous sites you can use as a host, you have to register for some of them first but it's free.

 

[max]

What bothers me about this repsonse from Arizer (I noticed it when first posted but didn't comment), about buying from an unauthorized dealer, is the implication that service may be delayed or compromised due to having to deal with them, as an unauthorized or fly by night dealer. If you need warranty service why would you contact the seller? Certainly if you got a DOA, or had problems in the 1st 30 days, you could try and get a replacement unit from the seller, but generally you go to the manufacturer for warranty repair, so why is Arizer apparently steering the customer to the reseller for service, instead of the manufacturer? If my unit were to fail, months down the road, I'd contact Arizer for warranty svc., not the seller. At that point, unless Arizer intends to delay repair, due to purchasing from an unauthorized source, it should make no difference where the unit was purchsed.

"You will have a manufacturerswarranty with your unit but if purchased from a person/company that is not an AuthorizedArizerDistributor it can sometimes take a long time to received any service/support from them as they are not AuthorizedDistributors. So if you have any problems down the road and you require service/support from them it may take a long time or sometimes they are gone (fly by night companies). You will need to retain the dated proof of purchase (dated sales receipt) for any warranty work as well."

 

[al bundy]

i had emailed rockwise about warranty info on Aug 4th
i didnt ask for a list i just asked if i get it from ebay if there is a warranty here is the response


Hello xxxx,

Thank you for your email. There always seems to be confusion on FC about warranty. Fact is, if you have your sales receipt, if the warranty has not expired, and the issue is a warranty issue, your unit will be covered under the warranty. Where the confusion starts is with MAP (minimum advertised pricing) and retailers who undercut that Arizer policy. When buying from unauthorized retailers, in most cases you can be sure that those retailers will not provide you with any service at all. Quite often I hear about customers who purchased a unit for a low price, only to receive it with broken parts or missing parts. Since glass is not covered under the warranty, and Arizer has strict QC before units leave their warehouse, Arizer does not generally replace broken or missing parts for customers if purchased from an unauthorized retailer, as those problems are the responsibility of the retailer. Also, in most cases, it is easiest to have warranty service provided by the retailer rather than through the manufacturer, and unauthorized retailers generally do not provide warranty service, and if they do, they take a long time and are not very helpful. That being said, here at K.J. Rockwise, we are an Authorized Arizer Dealer, we honor the warranty in full, and pride ourselves on fast and friendly customer service.

Regarding the MAP, it is a policy to maintain fair competition, reasonable market price, and brand value. MAP means that retailers cannot advertise below a certain price point, but it does not mean they cannot sell below that price. The issue there is listing a unit on an auction site such as eBay, or even a retail website, is effectively an advertisement as well as a place to buy/sell, which means online retailers must list their products at the MAP level. The retailers who do not do this are also the ones who remove accessories from units, do not replace broken ones, do not provide warranty service, etc.

 

[Rockwise]

Sorry for my lack of posts lately, its been a very busy summer.

Arizer has never posted in this forum.

All of my contact information is available if you have anything you want to talk to me about

If you are going to purchase a unit from a retailer, you can always feel free to email Arizer directly to ask them if the specific retailer is authorized

Whether your serial number is legible or not, you always need to provide proof of purchase for warranty service from Arizer

Shift ground? Wake up. For me this has always been about ethos. I have never said otherwise- and it came about through your own self righteous indignation and confrontational tone at my simple suggestion that Rockwise and Arizer are in cahoots- which they clearly are. There's no concieveable reason why they can not release this simple power supply more widely than just Rockwise. I have no real problem buying Arizer products, obviously, but resent being forced into a position of using a single overseas retailer. I would have bought the supply with the unit if the thing was available so don't try and tell me that I'm 'crying' about not wanting to buy an Arizer product- you're wrong again and have missed the point with your assumptions. I don't want to buy from Rockwise with excessive charges- 'how hard is that for you to grasp'? My ONLY alternative is to find the specifications and buy my own. It's trying to manipulate the market. I do not like this ethos, and it doesn't generate the love that Magic Flight spread. When you have a vaporizer that you can't use to it's full design potential because of apparent market exploitation, maybe then I will care for your opinions on this issue a little more. Until then I really don't. You're not at all helpful in this thread.

Response:
I really find it unfortunate when assumptions get expressed as opinions. I prefer to stick with the facts. Arizer and Rockwise are not in "cahoots". There's no manipulation of markets going on. Its simple geography. I live and work in the same city where Arizer has their warehouse, and I am one of their distributors. When they get new products in, I stop by the warehouse and pick up an order. The rest of the distributors place orders around the same time, but the logistics of large orders being shipped worldwide means that most other distributors have the disadvantage of waiting for the product to be shipped. If you don't want to order from Rockwise, you can wait a week or two and the AC adapters will be more widely available. If you want one right away, send me an email and maybe we can work something out that's agreeable.

Also, thank you pakalolo for backing me up here. There's no need for all of this negativity. Im in business to make a living and pay my bills, not exploit people. If you dont like our prices, you can feel free to email us; we will gladly price match any offers from Authorized Dealers and we are willing to work out combination pricing for accessories. You've never contacted us and you've got such strongly negative and crass things to say about my business. Aside from adjusting my "exploitative" prices that help cover my overhead expenses and cost of living, is there anything else I can do to make my business better suited towards your needs? If so, please email me at sales@rockwise.net so we can discuss and share our knowledge.

What bothers me about this repsonse from Arizer (I noticed it when first posted but didn't comment), about buying from an unauthorized dealer, is the implication that service may be delayed or compromised due to having to deal with them, as an unauthorized or fly by night dealer. If you need warranty service why would you contact the seller? Certainly if you got a DOA, or had problems in the 1st 30 days, you could try and get a replacement unit from the seller, but generally you go to the manufacturer for warranty repair, so why is Arizer apparently steering the customer to the reseller for service, instead of the manufacturer? If my unit were to fail, months down the road, I'd contact Arizer for warranty svc., not the seller. At that point, unless Arizer intends to delay repair, due to purchasing from an unauthorized source, it should make no difference where the unit was purchsed.

Response:
All of Arizer's Authorized dealers honor the warranty, and Arizer will always ask the customer to first contact the retailer they purchased their unit from for service. Its about providing the best service for the customers. If I live in FL and buy a unit from a retailer in FL or a state nearby, it would be much faster service for the customer to contact that retailer rather than deal with warranty service to Canada. The majority of people buy local. Perhaps not the majority of people on this forum buy local, but that is a reality, and it is best served by retailers taking care of customer warranty issues and Arizer taking care of their distributors.

The vaporizer industry is in it's infancy and as such, manufacturers are trying to get a handle on their goods that are being sold sideways to alternate distribution channels. This is called "gray market" goods and can really pose a problem for manufactures, especially in a young industry such as this. The reason why they are trying to maintain a certain pricing structure is to support those dealers who are purchasing their product directly from them. The legit dealers are tying to maintain a certain profit margin so that the Arizer line remains viable and Arizer is trying to support them in this effort and one of the primary ways to control this is to discourage consumers from purchasing their products from those that are selling "gray market" goods.

So I say again, contact them directly with the name of a specific distributor BEFORE you make your purchase to make sure that they are in fact, authorized.

Response:
Nail on the head. Thanks lwien!

Edited for spelling & readability

 

[max]

When buying from unauthorized retailers, in most cases you can be sure that those retailers will not provide you with any service at all.

In a lot of cases (especially after 30 days), even authorized dealers will steer a customer to the manufacturer for warranty service. I'm not talking about Arizer products. This is just a recognized, unofficial industry standard for many products. So Rockwise's statement on this is no surprise to me, but I understand that that may not be the case for everyone.

Also, in most cases, it is easiest to have warranty service provided by the retailer rather than through the manufacturer

A lot of retailers aren't in the business of repair. They sell too many different products/models and having qualified service techs and parts for everything is often not practical. I think this is going to be particularly true for vape dealers. They're going to have to either give the customer a brand new unit in exchange for the defective one, or ship the unit back to the manufacturer for repair or replacement. And if the manufacturer isn't going to replace a unit, but repair it, the reseller isn't going to give the customer a brand new replacement for a vape that's 6 mos. old, if they're going to get back the same used unit they shipped in for repair, and be stuck with it. So I don't really agree that, in most cases, retailer svc. is easier than going through the manufacturer. It depends on the policies of both the reseller and the manufacturer. If the product is an herbalAire for example, you're much better off contacting the manufacturer for warranty svc., since they'll ship you a replacement unit even before they receive the defective unit. All things considered, there's no guarantee that even two authorized resellers will provide the same level of service unless they're required to by the manufacturer, and when it comes to exchanging a unit, nobody really knows what level of inventory the reseller has, except the reseller. If he wants to keep his stock available for sales, and make you wait for a replacement, he can probably get away with it, authorized or not.

 

[Rockwise]

A lot of retailers aren't in the business of repair. They sell too many different products/models and having qualified service techs and parts for everything is often not practical. I think this is going to be particularly true for vape dealers. They're going to have to either give the customer a brand new unit in exchange for the defective one, or ship the unit back to the manufacturer for repair or replacement. And if the manufacturer isn't going to replace a unit, but repair it, the reseller isn't going to give the customer a brand new replacement for a vape that's 6 mos. old, if they're going to get back the same used unit they shipped in for repair, and be stuck with it. So I don't really agree that, in most cases, retailer svc. is easier than going through the manufacturer. It depends on the policies of both the reseller and the manufacturer. If the product is an herbalAire for example, you're much better off contacting the manufacturer for warranty svc., since they'll ship you a replacement unit even before they receive the defective unit. All things considered, there's no guarantee that even two authorized resellers will provide the same level of service unless they're required to by the manufacturer, and when it comes to exchanging a unit, nobody really knows what level of inventory the reseller has, except the reseller. If he wants to keep his stock available for sales, and make you wait for a replacement, he can probably get away with it, authorized or not.

Keeping in mind that this is the Arizer Solo thread:

Arizer works with Authorized dealers to ensure that the Authorized dealers know how to service warranty issues appropriately, and then Arizer resolves issues with the dealers. In certain special circumstances, if the retailer is unable to provide service Arizer will not leave the customer blowing in the wind. For Arizer products, if you have a warranty inquiry, contact the retailer first.

 

[darkrom]

Rockwise while you are back, any comments on the "electronicy smell" people are getting? I'm sure this thing is safe, but peace of mind is invaluable. If it is some kind of heat proof shielding making this smell like in the HA, then that is actually a good thing and would be best to know that ASAP. If not then many people are going to be concerned what the smell could possibly be.

Is there any way you can provide more info to glaze (who I think is doing everyone a huge favor) about the battery? To give some of us tinkerers the info we need to improve the battery (at our own risk of course) would be incredibly helpful.

 

[vape4life]

Not so sure about that Rockwise. I purchased from the friendly stranger in Toronto who as far as I know are one of arizer's bigger authorized distributors and they said it is strictly a MANUFACTURERS warranty and to contact arizer. They don't want anything to do with it.

I continue to wait patiently for a reply from arizer. The smell seems to come and go for some reason but that's not bothering me as much as the ceramic chip/flake that came off.

A lot of retailers aren't in the business of repair. They sell too many different products/models and having qualified service techs and parts for everything is often not practical. I think this is going to be particularly true for vape dealers. They're going to have to either give the customer a brand new unit in exchange for the defective one, or ship the unit back to the manufacturer for repair or replacement. And if the manufacturer isn't going to replace a unit, but repair it, the reseller isn't going to give the customer a brand new replacement for a vape that's 6 mos. old, if they're going to get back the same used unit they shipped in for repair, and be stuck with it. So I don't really agree that, in most cases, retailer svc. is easier than going through the manufacturer. It depends on the policies of both the reseller and the manufacturer. If the product is an herbalAire for example, you're much better off contacting the manufacturer for warranty svc., since they'll ship you a replacement unit even before they receive the defective unit. All things considered, there's no guarantee that even two authorized resellers will provide the same level of service unless they're required to by the manufacturer, and when it comes to exchanging a unit, nobody really knows what level of inventory the reseller has, except the reseller. If he wants to keep his stock available for sales, and make you wait for a replacement, he can probably get away with it, authorized or not.

Keeping in mind that this is the Arizer Solo thread:

Arizer works with Authorized dealers to ensure that the Authorized dealers know how to service warranty issues appropriately, and then Arizer resolves issues with the dealers. In certain special circumstances, if the retailer is unable to provide service Arizer will not leave the customer blowing in the wind. For Arizer products, if you have a warranty inquiry, contact the retailer first.

 

[max]

Keeping in mind that this is the Arizer Solo thread

Arizer's policies are not necessarily the same as those for other vape makers, or manufacturers in general. And the fact that a reseller is explaining company policy for a manufacturer says that the company isn't doing a good job of making policy clear. That should be done, ideally, on the company website. And since some manufacturers do NOT honor warrranties when the product is purchased from an unauthorized source, this info obviously needs to be made clear.

The majority of people buy local.

That depends on where you live and what you're buying. And as I've stated, it's not industry standard in all cases to go to the seller for service, especially long term.

For Arizer products, if you have a warranty inquiry, contact the retailer first.

A lot of confusion and questions could have been avoided if this info had been stated on the Arizer site, or even much earlier in this thread.

 

[Rockwise]

Keeping in mind that this is the Arizer Solo thread

Arizer's policies are not necessarily the same as those for other vape makers, or manufacturers in general. And the fact that a reseller is explaining company policy for a manufacturer says that the company isn't doing a good job of making policy clear. That should be done, ideally, on the company website. And since some manufacturers do NOT honor warrranties when the product is purchased from an unauthorized source, this info obviously needs to be made clear.

The majority of people buy local.

That depends on where you live and what you're buying. And as I've stated, it's not industry standard in all cases to go to the seller for service, especially long term.

For Arizer products, if you have a warranty inquiry, contact the retailer first.

A lot of confusion and questions could have been avoided if this info had been stated on the Arizer site, or even much earlier in this thread.

Clarity can be found by asking the right people the right questions. People have been making assumptions instead of asking the right questions, which creates the confusion that exists in this forum right now. I have been trying to clarify some of the confusion that has been generated on this forum because I sell Arizer products and the confusion here affects my business directly. I am not trying to clarify confusion on behalf of Arizer. If anyone has questions, send us an email to sales@rockwise.net.

Yes, sales are generally relative, depending on numerous factors. But most people in consumer societies still buy locally, that's a fact. From a manufacturing stand point, it makes sense to have policies that cater to the largest number, which is what Arizer has done with their warranty policies and Authorized Dealers.

We are not talking generally about all products and all industries. We are talking in the Solo thread about one Product (the Solo), one manufacturer (Arizer) in one industry. That other manufacturers in the same or different industry have different policies is irrelevant to the discussion about Arizer's policies. If you want to know the corporate policy of KFC, don't go to the McDonalds website; ask KFC.

 

[obelisk]

iirc, Rockwise is not Arizer. For warranty information, I'd speak with Arizer directly.

Assuming one can get a hold of them in a reasonable manner, of course.

I really find it unfortunate when assumptions get expressed as opinions. I prefer to stick with the facts.

what else would assumptions get expressed as, if not as opinions? fact?

Yes, sales are generally relative, depending on numerous factors. But most people in consumer societies still buy locally, that's a fact.

what is the correlation between 'most people in consumer societies' and 'serious potheads who wanna vape their green'? unless you define one, you've pretty much just wasted my time with all that talk.

there is a distinct buyer profile for both the smoker and the vaporist. the vaporist will always tend to be the more informed user (though smokers who are aware of vaporizing and its benefits etc but choose not to participate for whatever reason are equally informed perhaps). therefore is prone to more research. and therefore is more likely to research price and buy it outside of locale if it fits his or her price and convenience indexes.

if you want to discuss markets and the consequences of markets, let's discuss the matter in its entirety, not just the portions that fit your current theme please.

We are not talking generally about all products and all industries.

I'm glad you recognize that, i was beginning to think you didn't. there have been quite a few arguments made with a theme such as the one you refer to above in mind.

I honestly think you may need to restate your entire premise. either for clarity or consistent sense, whichever you think is lacking, and one certainly is.

That other manufacturers in the same or different industry have different policies is irrelevant to the discussion about Arizer's policies.

zing! true. but are you sure you get the implications of your own statement?

If you want to know the corporate policy of KFC, don't go to the McDonalds website; ask KFC.

just like if one needs to pick up an arizer product, one should be able to get relevant information from their website eh?

 

[August West]

The Arizer website is kind of a joke IMO. How long has this product been on the market now....almost 2 months and there is still no mention that I could find of their BRAND NEW PRODUCT that is supposed to revolutionize the vaporizer industry. How strange is that??? If I was judging this company on their website I wouldn't be so sure of their products that's for sure....but luckily I am judging them on my experience with my SOLO and that I do love. Bottom line...How about updating the website??? It's not hard to do and enough time has passed that it should have been done months ago.

I appreciate you coming on to try to explain some concerns Kevin. I think some have wrongly assumed you and Arizer are one and the same and this is not true. Arizer owes you some gratitude for taking the time to do that. Next time you are swinging by the warehouse you might ask them about updating that website and maybe even making an appearance on this forum. I think Rockwise is a fine seller I just wish you would lower that international shipping charge. $30 seems a bit high from Canada to the US especially going thru postal service. That charge keeps people from buying from you even though you have what they need and want.

I would like to know what's up with the electrical smell that a small group are having a problem with. Mine has never had that smell but as a Solo owner I am interested in what's going on.

 

[Stu]

I emailed Arizer asking for an authorized distributor list and this was the reply I got:

Thank you for your email.

If you could forward me the link of the company/person you would like to purchase from and I will see if they are an authorized Arizer Distributor. Regarding the advertisements perhaps they are fake ad's ... send money and they send nothing.... - this is why you should buy direct or from an Authorized Arizer Distributor.

Normally anyone selling under our (MAP) price of $299.00 for the Extreme or Solo (or $199.00 for the V-Tower) is not an Authorized Arizer Distributor. If you want to order direct from us to ensure you receive what you order along with the full warranty offered you can visit our website at www.arizer.com

You will have a manufacturers warranty with your unit but if purchased from a person/company that is not an Authorized Arizer Distributor it can sometimes take a long time to received any service/support from them as they are not Authorized Distributors. So if you have any problems down the road and you require service/support from them it may take a long time or sometimes they are gone (fly by night companies). You will need to retain the dated proof of purchase (dated sales receipt) for any warranty work as well. Warranty is 3 years parts and service, Lifetime on the heating element.

If I can be of further assistance please let me know.

Best Regards
Debbie

I then responded using Puffitup.com as an example (even asking if being sold at a discount for $245 would invalidate the warranty) and this was their reply:

Yes Puffitup is an Authorized Arizer Distributor.

Best Regards
Debbie

So from this email exchange we have learned that:
A) Just because the item is sold for less than the MAP does NOT invalidate the warranty and
B) They are reluctant to share the actual list of authorized dealers, rather they would only say "yea" or "nay" on an individual basis.

 

[Rockwise]

just like if one needs to pick up an arizer product, one should be able to get relevant information from their website eh?

Yeah, you could visit Arizer's website, and if the information you are looking for is not on the website they have a very handy Contact Form you can fill out.

if you want to discuss markets and the consequences of markets, let's discuss the matter in its entirety, not just the portions that fit your current theme please.

Im not here to do a market analysis or discuss the consequences of markets. Im trying to clarify why Arizer has the policies they do, and if you read all of my comments you should understand that the points I have made do just that in a concise and relevant way. Discussing other products, other manufacturers, and/or other industries is irrelevant to Arizers Policies regarding Arizer's products. My generalization about consumers is very relevant since even in niche markets there are still overlying trends: While it is true that online sales have seen growth in market share of many industries, most consumers still buy products locally as opposed to online. Therefore, resolving warranty issues on a local basis is quite logical, for all of the parties involved (consumer, retailer, distributor, and manufacturer).

Not so sure about that Rockwise. I purchased from the friendly stranger in Toronto who as far as I know are one of arizer's bigger authorized distributors and they said it is strictly a MANUFACTURERS warranty and to contact arizer. They don't want anything to do with it.

Friendly Stranger has an agreement with Arizer to take care of warranty issues for them. Arizer is in Kitchener, Friendly Stranger is in Toronto. Only an hour apart, this is still fairly local service, granted the customers would be served better if the store was willing to resolve warranty issues. As I said before, if retailers are not willing to resolve warranty issues, Arizer will not leave the customer blowing in the wind.

what else would assumptions get expressed as, if not as opinions? fact?

Assumptions are not opinions or facts, they are assumptions, which can turn out to be true or false. People should get the facts / verify their assumptions from a credible source before posting assumptions which can cause misinformation and confusion. Once the confusion has started Arizer seems to take the blame for the misinformation caused by posts, despite the fact that Arizer has made it easy to contact them for information.

The Arizer website is kind of a joke IMO. How long has this product been on the market now....almost 2 months and there is still no mention that I could find of their BRAND NEW PRODUCT that is supposed to revolutionize the vaporizer industry. How strange is that??? If I was judging this company on their website I wouldn't be so sure of their products that's for sure....but luckily I am judging them on my experience with my SOLO and that I do love. Bottom line...How about updating the website??? It's not hard to do and enough time has passed that it should have been done months ago.
I appreciate you coming on to try to explain some concerns Kevin. I think some have wrongly assumed you and Arizer are one and the same and this is not true. Arizer owes you some gratitude for taking the time to do that. Next time you are swinging by the warehouse you might ask them about updating that website and maybe even making an appearance on this forum. I think Rockwise is a fine seller I just wish you would lower that international shipping charge. $30 seems a bit high from Canada to the US especially going thru postal service. That charge keeps people from buying from you even though you have what they need and want.

I would like to know what's up with the electrical smell that a small group are having a problem with. Mine has never had that smell but as a Solo owner I am interested in what's going on.

Arizer is focusing on the distribution rather than retailer right now, so they can assess the strengths and weaknesses of their new product in various markets. Updating a website doesnt take too much effort, but if they havent updated their website, Im sure they have their reasons. I do remember the last time I saw Steve he mentioned that he was working on getting a website up, but was still making some executive decisions. I agree that a very clear and thorough website does have its place. Im not so sure the Solo is supposed to revolutionize anything.

The smell that two or three people have mentioned is unheard of aside from these cases. I have noticed with some types of tobacco/herbals that the taste sours after 3-5 minutes in the Solo heater, but this is specific to the plant materials used, and has nothing to do with the unit itself. If the people with the smell problem contact Arizer Im sure that Arizer would be interested in checking out the units to see if there are any internal problems which would cause the described odor, or if it is an external issue.

 

[aesthyrian]

Here is more warranty goodness, err or not so goodness. I contacted Arizer twice, once asking for a list of authorized retailers and the other asking specifically about embersmokeshop.com that is a local shop and is selling the arizer solo for $205 BIN free shipping on ebay.

Here the response when I asked for a list:

"Hello Eric,

Thank you for your email.

If you could forward me the link of the company/person you would like to purchase from and I will see if they are an authorized Arizer Distributor. Regarding the advertisements perhaps they are fake ad's ... send money and they send nothing.... - this is why you should buy direct or from an Authorized Arizer Distributor.

Normally anyone selling under our (MAP) price of $299.00 for the Extreme or Solo (or $199.00 for the V-Tower) is not an Authorized Arizer Distributor. If you want to order direct from us to ensure you receive what you order along with the full warranty offered you can visit our website at www.arizer.com

You will have a manufacturers warranty with your unit but if purchased from a person/company that is not an Authorized Arizer Distributor it can sometimes take a long time to received any service/support from them as they are not Authorized Distributors. So if you have any problems down the road and you require service/support from them it may take a long time or sometimes they are gone (fly by night companies). You will need to retain the dated proof of purchase (dated sales receipt) for any warranty work as well. Warranty is 3 years parts and service, Lifetime on the heating element.

If I can be of further assistance please let me know.

Best Regards
Debbie"

Nothing new there really just the same response they give everyone. As for the response when asking whether a specific seller is authorized or not I received this:

"No they are Not Authorized Arizer Distributors.

Regards
Debbie"

Pretty simple, eh?

So no list, but they will give you a straight up yes or no answer regarding dealers.

I'm completely with you Max, when my MFLB needed to be replaced I didn't go call up Randy at Puffitup.com, I contacted the manufacturer for their warranty, Randy never promised any warranty so why would I bother him? Same with my DBV, I always contacted 7th floor and they would repair it no problems asked (I even bought it second hand off a friend) they just wanted me to be able to use their product.

I don't understand Arizer's point, it certainly won't stop me from getting the best deal. Since their answer is simply that it may take longer for you to receive repair service. But If I need repair I'm going to bug the manufacturer anyway from the get go and not waste my time. Nowhere have I read though that buying the solo under $299 will void your warranty, it will just make warranty replacement and repair "slower"

Looks like I'll be buying this from Randy at puffitup for $231 with the promo code "ARIZERSOLO" that's better than the FC discount! Cheap enough for me and they are a member of the holy authorized dealer list

and on a final note Arizer definitely needs an updated website. In the e-mails I received from them they tell me I can purchase a solo from arizer.com which is not true at all. Some help that is.. all you can buy there is the extreme, it is basically an extreme website, not an Arizer website.

Seriously, with a little bit of cash and a good web developer they could have avoided a lot of the negative and uncertain discussion here about their policies. If you don't tell people what your policy is clearly then of course they will assume all sorts of things. I'm with everyone else, get a website. It's a joke.

Big thanks to you K.J. For coming here and addressing everyone's concerns. Right now you seem to be doing a better job at that than Arizer themselves. So thanks again, please don't think that anything said negatively about Arizer is directed at you.

 

[FLskwat]

Sorry I'm in holidays and not very connected these days but as stated shortly in the thread I also have the electrical insulation smell & TASTE (not always but sometimes very "present" in the "background-second taste" of the exhale!
This smell is not systematic and I still use my Solo, it has no visible fumes, and is very similar to a smell/taste I remember with my Q... I really think the insulation fabric's theory is interesting and would like to hear more about it!

 

[dorkus_molorkus]

KJ- thankyou for your posts

aesthyrian- top post!
I feel its our job as consumers, especially in these lean financial times & the advent of the fancy interwebs to get the best DEAL possible. In fact my wife demands it from me, especially with this particular subject matter.

As consumers we want the best deal (not neccessarily price alone), the best service, the fastest & reasonable cost shipping, replies to emails ASAP, we want all the information available on the website (without having to write notes to the retailer to ask BASIC questions that a FAQ would answer), all backed by a clear and concise warranty policy, and of course good old friendly, efficient customer service.

sounds impossible right, but some can & do deliver some, most, nearly all of these.

they are the ones who will get my $$$ and I bet quite a few of you as well.

Dont get me wrong, customer loyalty has its place. In fact I reckon you can even put a dollar figure on it.
I am happy to pay 10% extra to purchase from joeblow because he has really looked after me in the past when
I had a problem with an item and it was fixed in no time and was happy to do it.

good service, and how a retailer/ manufactorer responds to issues, (possibly issues like these) can create a loyal customer base that is happy to pay extra to shop with them.

Also, in searching for the best deal, we must try to not cut off our own noses- eg: understanding the warranty issues, etc.
this is what this forum is for, discussions to highlight issues good and bad. and I think I may have seen more than a few opinions on here as well and have learnt a great deal to boot.

I think now I own 3 vapes & a few glass bits all purchased in the last 12 weeks or so, would make me a
collector. I spend my time here to decide what I am going to collect next, these threads & what is contained therein helps me to decide what I am going to spend my $$$ on next.

So, back to the subject at hand-

seems like puffitup has the best DEAL (price, service and warranty) going for the solo? (with the code)


I think my solo is due here today. woohoo, hopefully all the warranty talk will be nuthing but cloudy on the go vapor by this arvo.

just my

 

[charliedontsurf]

Vaporizerforweed.net are going to honor an exchange for my Solo, on the hot-transformer scent issue. I'm hoping my new Solo won't have the same issue. VFW has been a pleasure to work with.

 

[stickstones]

This sure seems like an out of control shit storm for a company with a great history of excellent customer service.

Honestly, I have never heard of an Arizer customer who was unsatisfied with their customer service.

Buy a Solo and enjoy it. If you are having problems, contact Arizer directly. That's how I roll with Arizer and they ALWAYS make it good.

 

[GooglyEyes]

Wow. I gotta say I'm surprised at some of the disrespectful rhetoric I've been reading...

I just got my Solo Friday, from Puffitup, and am quite impressed by it. I'm not an expert by any means (I've used my BF's SSV, and the Iolite was my primary vaporizer for the last six months), but the Solo is delivering better hits than either one. So far, my Solo has not developed any electronics smell (I assume, that's the sign of a defective unit), but I guess time will tell.

I've tried the Solo with ground herb and whole nugget pieces, and the ground herb definitely delivers better hits (the whole nugget, which seemed spent, had green in the center when I pulled it out). The Solo seems to be about as efficient on herb as the Iolite with the optimizer.

Kudos to Randy from Puffitup for the quick response to my e-mail (he responding in 5 minutes), and for the quick delivery.