Ascent Vaporizer by DaVinci

[Delta3DStudios]

Hey Mister @OF now that I got your attention, there was something I also wanted to address with you. You might have over 10k posts, meaning you are very talkative, but at the same time you admitted (post #5251) that you don't even own an Ascent and borrowed @nigel's device

So with all due respect (and please, please, don't take this as a personal attack) I need to challenge your temperature-drop test results, as it is clearly not what I'm experiencing with my 2AE1 device. It might be down to a difference with @nigel's device (1AA1 iirc) or maybe with the kind of draw you used for your test, but I'm nowhere seeing the 100°F drop figure you keep reporting.

If you read the "Bud Toaster" thread (http://fuckcombustion.com/threads/the-bud-toaster-currently-model-14-version-3.826/) you will see that @Hippie Dickie managed to get around 1°F set-temperature locking with a "simple" PID controller (I use quotes here as I don't want to diminish the excellent work he did, but the man admitted it himself: a PID controller is no rocket science) Ok he's using way stronger LiFe batteries and can draw more amps than we have at disposal with the Ascent, but still.

In the LSV thread, they reported a maximum of 50°F drop on the device. Again it's hard to compare because they got a very large ceramic heating element in comparison, but this figure was reported when doing huge bong rips, and the LSV has strictly no PID temp control.

So your 100°F figure gives the impression the Ascent has no active temperature control at all! But that's not what I'm seeing here: do I have to wait between draws? Yes for sure, but 5 seconds is enough here, nowhere like the 30 seconds *minimum* you said in your previous post. In fact, it's easy to test: set the Ascent to any temperature, wait 5 minutes for radiation heating to start taking place (when the bottom of the device becomes hot to the touch, it's really pumping more) then power off the bowl (option+minus buttons) and note the temperature reported by the sensor. Then draw as you would and note the reported temperature at the end. Here with my drawing technic, I only see max 4°C drop on average, and that is *without* active temperature control. Meaning when the bowl is on, the drop is even lower because the chip is trying to compensate.

But I know that you will answer that the sensor temperature is not the same as the herb material temperature inside the bowl, yet there must be a strong correlation though don't you think? When you did your test, were the 4 bowl holes completely obstructed by plant material? How much did you pack the material? (or maybe you did an empty bowl test? I don't recall the exact details sorry) Also you glass flowers folk don't seem to be packing really hard, whereas when I say I make a "puck" I really mean it, a flat hard disc! So there really must be a difference, maybe the 2Axx series were improved and had their PID tuned better?

Just to add my $0.02 you cannot make the correlation that the temperature reading on the screen accurately reflects the change in temperature as you draw after you turn off the heater.

Yes, true the thermistor is not embedded into the herb, but it's really installed on the outside of the oven. The temperature measured by the thermistor (and the one reported on the screen when the heater is off) is actually the outside of the oven. True, the temperature will fall as you extract the heat from the oven, but you cannot trust this temperature readout. By reducing the temperature in the oven itself, it will take several seconds for the temperature to bleed through to the other side of the oven.

Sure it may be a thin ceramic glazed oven, but heat transfer does take some time to adjust. Believe me, on my 3D printers, my thermistor on my heated print surface will register 110C, but in reality, the glass surface on top of the thermistor takes several minutes longer to reach that temperature.

I too have doubts as to how fast the load temperature drops by 100F and believe those results would only be seen by those who are drawing so hard they cannot produce any vapor clouds! I too only wait 5-10 seconds before I start drawing again, and have no problems producing vapor after a short pause, but I also have regulated my technique to ensure I draw as slow as possible.

 

[swieder711]

I am still searching for my first vape. I was going to get the Pinnacle Pro but read about too many problem on tips melting, cases cracking and poor customer service.

The Ascent seems like a good option for me. Many of the video reviews look very promising. I noted a few concerns on this thread, but Davinci seems to have addressed many of them and also seems to have good customer service if a problem arises.

It would be nice to see a few pictures on how people are dealing with half filled bowls by using glass flowers or small rocks.

Any suggestions for a newbie on what to buy as first time vaper?

 

[BLaKSmith]

I am still searching for my first vape. I was going to get the Pinnacle Pro but read about too many problem on tips melting, cases cracking and poor customer service.

The Ascent seems like a good option for me. Many of the video reviews look very promising. I noted a few concerns on this thread, but Davinci seems to have addressed many of them and also seems to have good customer service if a problem arises.

It would be nice to see a few pictures on how people are dealing with half filled bowls by using glass flowers or small rocks.

Any suggestions for a newbie on what to buy as first time vaper?

I just got some, they're cheap. And then just put it in, if it fits it hits just pack around, find a size you like and a number you like and you will be on your merry way.

I have had two faulty units so far but I honestly can't dispute their customer service as they do a very tough job very well and will help when needed

 

[Delta3DStudios]

I am still searching for my first vape. I was going to get the Pinnacle Pro but read about too many problem on tips melting, cases cracking and poor customer service.

The Ascent seems like a good option for me. Many of the video reviews look very promising. I noted a few concerns on this thread, but Davinci seems to have addressed many of them and also seems to have good customer service if a problem arises.

It would be nice to see a few pictures on how people are dealing with half filled bowls by using glass flowers or small rocks.

Any suggestions for a newbie on what to buy as first time vaper?

Honestly, I was in your shoes a few months ago. A combuster looking for a good portable vape for use around the home (didn't need ultra stealth) and out over friend's houses.. The Ascent surely converted me to vaping, but I personally regret spending what I did for this vape. (I value the vape around $150, far lower than any vendor is currently selling it). Sure they have worked out some issues, but I still think DV has a bit more tweaking to the design before it's worth $250 (in my opinion).

For a true glass-on-glass experience, I think they need to fix a few seals to ensure proper air flow through the device - some of the air in my draw comes through the internals of the unit. For the first 1 or two weeks after I received my replacement Ascent, I could actually sense (taste?) that plasticy new-electronic smell in my sessions. Also the lack of a true official spacer from DV is annoying (hopefully they will come up with something!). While I haven't broken many of my glass flowers, it's still a hassle to load compared to my Lotus. It would be nice to dump herb, toss in a spacer or two, and go about my business.

Different vape's fit different needs. You need to determine what you need - portability, style, performance (heating style - combustion or convection), function, efficiency, reliability, price, etc. For me, the Ascent won with it's glass-on-glass advertising pitch, and it's sexy wood grain and OLED screen were huge selling points. But I was a vape newb, I didn't know what to expect.

For me, the Ascent is the best tasting of the 3 vape's I own (and best tasting of the 4 vapes I've ever tried!), and my wife won't let me sell the Ascent because she only like's the flavor country from 335 to 355F. But if I had to do it over again, I probably would not have purchased it (at the current price anyway).

 

[BLaKSmith]

Honestly, I was in your shoes a few months ago. A combuster looking for a good portable vape for use around the home (didn't need ultra stealth) and out over friend's houses.. The Ascent surely converted me to vaping, but I personally regret spending what I did for this vape. (I value the vape around $150, far lower than any vendor is currently selling it). Sure they have worked out some issues, but I still think DV has a bit more tweaking to the design before it's worth $250 (in my opinion). For a true glass-on-glass experience, I think they need to fix a few seals to ensure proper air flow through the device - some of the air in my draw comes through the internals of the unit. For the first 1 or two weeks after I received my replacement Ascent, I could actually sense (taste?) that plasticy new-electronic smell in my sessions. Also the lack of a true official spacer from DV is also unnerving. While I haven't broken many of my glass flowers, it's still a hassle to load compared to my Lotus. It would be nice to dump herb, toss in a spacer or two, and go about my business.

Different vape's fit different needs. You need to determine what you need - portability, style, performance (heating style - combustion or convection), function, efficiency, reliability, price, etc. For me, the Ascent won with it's glass-on-glass advertising pitch, and it's sexy wood grain and OLED screen were huge selling points. But I was a vape newb, I didn't know what to expect.

For me, the Ascent is the best tasting of the 3 vape's I own (and best tasting of the 4 vapes I've ever tried!), and my wife won't let me sell the Ascent because she only like's the flavor country from 335 to 355F. But if I had to do it over again, I probably would not have purchased it (at the current price anyway).

Very well put, if I had the choice to of waited until the problems were fixed I would've, but if you're willing to keep shipping reps I assume they're willing to keep sending them. Not exactly a position for the uncommitted to endure happily.

I feel like I'm repeating myself a lot but, consensus seems solo, time tested, a lot of units still in rotation for many.

 

[CarolKing]

Some folks like to be the first on the block to get the newest vape on the market. Thats fine, but you have to be willing to put up with a few flaws a new vape may have or be ready to send the unit back, that can be a hassle. Over time new vaporizers evolve and become better. Sometimes it takes a while for these units to be ready for prime time.

Make sure you deal with a good company that will stand behind their products. Davinci is stellar in that capacity, other companies are not, and leave you with a vaporizer that's not worth the money and investment you put into it. Some online stores lack in quality customer service. Once the sale is over and they take your money they are done with you. Shop with a reputable company, like those on this forum.

There are plenty of folks that absolutely love the Ascent and others that don't. Each to their own likes and dislikes. What may be a fantastic vape for one person, someone else may have a totally different opinion. You can only make that choice for yourself. Study and do some research, you are investing in your health.

I bought my glass flower pipe screens through Amazon, they are very inexpensive, but easily lost because they are pretty small. You will have to play around with them and see what works for you. I use probably 6 or 7, they do a pretty good job of holding the herb down and to distribute heat. Some folks just use the oil jar with the lid off, on top of their herb, to hold it down and that works for them.

I like to use the glass gong it gives a tighter draw, or the Eds wooden stems made for the Ascent. I plan on ordering Eds Cocobolo wood 14mm stem, it looks awesome.

 

[farcus2323]

I absolutely love my Ascent now, I am actually on my "Fourth" one. I had many issues with my first few, and there is a tremendous learning curve with this device. In all honesty this website and forum was the only reason I fell in love with my Ascent and learned how to correctly use it. It is great now, but I believe that everyone either "loves" the Ascent, or you "hate" the Ascent. Thank you to all for helping me "love" mine!

 

[CarolKing]

Wow you sure hung in there a long time farcus, I don't know if I would have had the patience.Glad you were able to finally enjoy the Ascent. It a good unit, if you find one that doesn't have flaws.

 

[farcus2323]

First one, I was just using it wrong, I wasted a little of flower in the process. I took it back, received a new one. I still did not understand how to use it, and just could not get great vapor production. I then found this forum and learned how to correctly use the slow draw method, and oil jar, or glass flowers. I started to love my ASCENT. One day I was cleaning it, and I truthfully think I got it a little too wet with my Alcohol and It stopped working. I just contacted Davinci, they replaced it for FREE. My third one was great for around 3 months, then all of a sudden it just wouldn't turn on. Contacted Davinci again, They replaced it, This time I asked for a Carbon Fiber version, my first three were Stealths. This one has been great ever since!

 

[KeroZen]

To be clear, I'm not hating my Ascent at all, to the contrary! My previous posts were not meant to sound negative at all, I'm just seizing the occasion (@nigel and @JCat) to help DaVinci improve the device and iron out the last quirks. I'm pretty satisfied by my device, apart from that gap problem. This forum exists to share information and people ought to know the standing issues.

@JCat: so apparently they are aware of the top leak and you said the bottom part is immune. What about the junction 3/4 down the air tunnel? (where the two pieces appear to meet and where my larger straw grinds against) Also do you know if they intend to provide a fix for the upper leak? Because having to buy the GonG adapter is exactly what I call "mitigate the issue". It's sorting the effect but not the cause.

The girlfriend broke my "best fit" upper straw the other day... shattered in hundreds of pieces... I'm left with the larger straw and the draw is not as good... If DaVinci is mass-producing these straws, couldn't they match them by pairs at the factory?

The best would be a real mini ground glass connection though... tricky to do surely... any skilled glass worker out there?

Edit: nevermind, that would be problematic because it could push the bottom straw down...and when this happens and the bowl is closed, good luck opening it without breaking the glass!

 

[nigel]

The girlfriend broke my "best fit" upper straw the other day... shattered in hundreds of pieces... I'm left with the larger straw and the draw is not as good... !

Have you checked out Ed's stems? He makes not only a screen+sip set, but also a "GonG" (WonG??) adapter? You can use only the sip half, or I'm looking at the GonG as I perfer thqt to the normal sipping straw. (keeping the glass screen stem...)

I don't have one, but @CarolKing likes her's. They might add a slight richness in taste due to the wood. Butdefinitely would be shatter-proof! (Can't speak to fit with the glass, but at least it won't break.)



EDIT: Plus Ed's stuff is gorgeous!

 

[farcus2323]

How do I upload pictures in a post?

 

[Shrike]

Go get a free account at Imgur...then upload your pic's there.

When you want to upload on here, copy the code next to your pictures on Imgur (The option for message boards), click on the image icon in FC, and paste the code into where it asks you for it on FC. Just remove the IMG brackets on each side of the code. That should do it...

 

[MrNaturalAZ]

Stem Stuff

I'd never given too much thought to air leakage between the stems, but I recently took a closer look inside my Ascent and realized that the path through the electronics is not airtight. There seems to be a rigid plastic tunnel between the top and bottom silicone parts. The seal is not perfect between each end piece and the tunnel; I don't know if it is supposed to, or if the intent is o rely on accurate mating of the glass parts to prevent ingress of fresh air into the vapor path.

In any case, I read some messages here with others' experiences with the glass stems and in particular, that the Ascent works better when the glass stems mate snugly.

Experiment

To that end, I decided to check on my spare set (each new Ascent ships with one set installed, and a second set in the box). After trying all four possible combinations, I determined that the original set I'd been using was the loosest (largest outer plus smallest inner) and the 'spare' set was the tightest (smaller outer plus larger inner).

I switched to that set and performance is notably improved! To anybody who's unhappy with the quantity or quality of vapor, especially if you suspect it is getting diluted from fresh air ingress, I'd recommend experimenting with your glass stems to see if you can get a tighter fit. This is easily tested with the stems out of the Ascent unit. Simply cover the holes in the 'screen' end of the inner stem with your fingers and suck/blow. Choose the combination that offers the best seal while not binding (can still telescope freely).

Fix for Loose Stems

If you don't have a good-fitting stem set (or you do, but would like to be able to salvage your loose set as a spare) I've discovered a simple and effective repair. In fact, it's almost too simple. Simply take a length of transparent tape (the frosted "invisible" tape works great, or even packaging tape) and wrap it around the inner stem near the top. You may have to experiment a bit to determine how much (how many layers) to use. You'll want the tape wrap to be as thick as you can get it while still allowing the stems to freely telescope.

While this might sound a bit tacky (well, I suppose it is), keep in mind that the taped part will be inside the unit and invisible while in use, even when the outer straw is withdrawn for usage. While theoretically that might expose an ever-so-tiny bit of the edge of the tape to the vapor path, it won't be enough to matter, and is far better than sucking air in past the battery and electronics, diluting your vapor.

Sooooo...

One of these days I'm gonna bite the bullet and get a set of Ed's wood stems, but in the meantime I've got my Ascent working really well with a tight fitting set of glass stems, and have even come up with a reasonable solution for my loose-fitting backup set.

BONUS! Glass Stem Cleaning Tip

I've found a great way to clean the flared "screen" end of the inner glass stem. I use a pipe cleaner. I've found that if I bend it a bit about 3/8" from the end, then stick it in, although it mostly straightens itself to go into the stem, enough of a bend remains that once it is all the way in, if I push a little harder, it will re-bend and allow me to get into the hard-to-reach corners of the funnel-shaped screen end of the stem. A bit of iso on the pipe cleaner, wiggle and poke around into the corners to get the resin loose, then a iso rinse (may need repeated a couple-three times) and it's good as new. And a lot quicker than soaking alone or even iso+salt soak'n'shake. I think it took me about 10 minutes total, including cleaning the outer with a q-tip.

 

[Norcalsun]

Wouldn't the adhesive on the tape heat up being on the interior of the unit? I imagine it would work but over time that adhesive is going to get nasty. Maybe if you changed tape every time you cleaned your glass. Just something to think about. I actually would like a more airtight passage. If they could seal the top silicon and maybe the digital readout this unit would draw a lot better, and probably taste better too. I wouldn't be surprised if they do address the air leak soon, more than likely a soon as my warranty runs out. Oh well.

 

[MrNaturalAZ]

Wouldn't the adhesive on the tape heat up being on the interior of the unit? I imagine it would work but over time that adhesive is going to get nasty. Maybe if you changed tape every time you cleaned your glass. Just something to think about.

Good point. It might not make a good long-term solution. Luckily I have one good set, so the tape is just for my backup. In any case, it's a good way for someone to test the theory if they suspect their stem might be leaking.

 

[Glass004]

Well I have had my Ascent for a while and I love it. I like using the glass jar in oven as a method to reduce load size. Packing the jar well results in minimal contamination of funnel stem. when the stem was getting dirty before the jar, I used a little brush to clean funnel and seal around it with every new load. Using the little glass jar takes longer to heat up but once heated it acts as a heat sink stabilizing the temp during draws. I also love to blow shotguns at 430. The glass jar is definitely conserving my herb better.

 

[KeroZen]

@MrNaturalAZ : I thought a small silicone o-ring around the bottom straw would be even better (and prolly safer health-wise than tape with unknown glue and additives) but it would have a bad tendency to roll up and down when extending the upper straw. But other vapes have such o-rings on their accessories so it works in theory.

Another solution I mentionned in my initial review would be to have a longer bottom straw. Same shape, just a longer body.... long enough to protrude from the top end... this way you wouldn't even need the upper straw and suck directly on the bottom one. But its diameter is very small so maybe it would feel weird. And also the bottom straw gets hot so maybe we would burn our lips I dunno...

But that gives me a better idea! What if they released a longer upper straw? Excactly same shape but longer! This way we could have it seat on the bottom one exactly like the GonG water tool adapter does. I didn't test the GonG adapter yet. @nigel likes it but I'm concerned the larger diameter might not feel as satisfying in the mouth (I imagine I would find it a bit too large...) As an added bonus, it would cool down the vapor more than the stock straw!

But honnestly, what we really need is a leak-fix in the first place, not a band-aid!

@MrNaturalAZ : you said your bottom seal is also leaking?! @JCat seemed to imply it was not the case... can you confirm?

For the glass matching, I repeat that it would be better if DaVinci did the pair matching at the factory. It's evident they would be able to provide way better matches that what we can do with our 4 pieces only. We all seem to get one loose and one fit match... Maybe we could swap our spares on this forum?

 

[CarolKing]

Using the gong seems like a simplified fix. The 14mm glass gong is what I have and it tightens the draw a bit. I bought two when I ordered because you never know when one might break.

Ed has come out with a Wong made with Cocobolo wood that will fit the Ascent that I will order. I want to order a black wood 3 inch 14 mm Wong for my Solo too just waiting until Ed has the time and the energy. He's very busy right now and will get to it in a week or so. His dad passed away, folks might want to go to his thread and wish him good will.

 

[OF]

Fix for Loose Stems

Simply take a length of transparent tape (the frosted "invisible" tape works great, or even packaging tape) and wrap it around the inner stem near the top. You may have to experiment a bit to determine how much (how many layers) to use. You'll want the tape wrap to be as thick as you can get it while still allowing the stems to freely telescope.

Interesting idea. I don't have one of my own to try it with (and Nigel's fit fine when I had it), but how about using PTFE ('Teflon') Plumber's tape instead? The thin white stuff that comes on rolls like tape but without adhesive? Totally appropriate for the heat. Non toxic. It sticks well enough I think (especially if you 'screw' it up and down to tighten, rather than loosen the wrap), should slide easily even if fouled. And since there's no adhesive if/when it comes apart inside the other stem you can poke the bits out with a broom straw or something?

OF

 

[MrNaturalAZ]

@MrNaturalAZ : I thought a small silicone o-ring around the bottom straw would be even better (and prolly safer health-wise than tape with unknown glue and additives) but it would have a bad tendency to roll up and down when extending the upper straw. But other vapes have such o-rings on their accessories so it works in theory.

I thought of that, and immediately eliminated it for the reason you mention. I imagine it might work with some designs, if there is something to keep the o-ring in place (like a groove in the inner stem - might be hard to do with glass). Hmmm - such an arrangement might be possible with stainless steel straws (and a finer screen could be integrated into the bottom end) - have we any capable machinists here among our ranks?

@MrNaturalAZ : you said your bottom seal is also leaking?! @JCat seemed to imply it was not the case... can you confirm?

No, I can't really confirm which seam leaks. I was merely relating my observation that the passage was comprised of three distinct pieces - silicone end pieces and a rigid plastic tube. One additional place for leaks could be the slot where the metal tool stores. This could (potentially) leak air IN when using the glass straws (though probably no worse than what leaks around the buttons and display) as well as allowing air from the electronics cavity to be inhaled when using the "buddy rim".

Ed has come out with a Wong made with Cocobolo wood that will fit the Ascent that I will order.

I saw that, and, just like the glass water adaptors, would provide as close to a perfect seal as possible. OTOH, they make the Ascent (slightly) less portable. I'm hoping Ed's wood stem pairs mate fairly well (as I'd expect them to, being hand made) - can you comment on how well they seal?

Interesting idea. I don't have one of my own to try it with (and Nigel's fit fine when I had it), but how about using PTFE ('Teflon') Plumber's tape instead? The thin white stuff that comes on rolls like tape but without adhesive? Totally appropriate for the heat. Non toxic. It sticks well enough I think (especially if you 'screw' it up and down to tighten, rather than loosen the wrap), should slide easily even if fouled. And since there's no adhesive if/when it comes apart inside the other stem you can poke the bits out with a broom straw or something?

Oohh, excellent idea! Inert, heat-resistant, clingy, and even slippery, too. I like it!

 

[CarolKing]

Lately I've just been using the Eds stems with the Ascent, it has a good feel and taste. It seems to have a tight enough seal. The two stems work perfectly together, Ed has done a good job working with the wood to get a wonderful fit that's paired with the Ascent like it was suppose to be that way. In the future I will use the glass gong too.

I wanted to spend the time to give these stems a good testing. I'm using the Ascent right now with the black wood stem and getting good vapor taste and clouds with a bit of that earthy taste and feel. The fit and feel is awesome. Thanks Ed

 

[JCat]

I mentioned the PTFE (Teflon) tape way back at the start of this thread (I did this with my 1st Ascent where the leaks were much worse)

 

[OF]

I mentioned the PTFE (Teflon) tape way back at the start of this thread (I did this with my 1st Ascent where the leaks were much worse)

Excellent. No need to guess then, it's proven to work.

Thanks.

OF

 

[JCat]

Excellent. No need to guess then, it's proven to work.

Thanks.

OF

Although if I remember correctly for some reason I accidentally said "silicone plumbers tape," and you corrected me OF It did work but found it to be more of a pain then it was worth (was easier to just use well matched glass straw pairs)