StemPod by MPL

[almost there]

My StemPod ended up in the 'drawer'.

No offense guys but the Splinter killed the StemPod.

The Good:

The StemPod presentation was awesome (wood case especially). The customer service was incredible. The build quality was tip top (no rattles or other mfgr defects). Standard size stems and adapters. I believe (IME) all those things are missing from anything you buy from RBT. However, the Splinter vape is just simply better (for me).

The constant changing of the air ports in the Stempod (caused by the outer sleeve twisting) were out of the question. You definitely need a way to LOCK that outer sleeve from spinning. That is the single biggest thing that put the vape into the dreaded 'drawer'.

I also didn't like the way the O-ring locks onto the stem and pulls the sleeve off. However, there were options to remove that O-ring (that I did not try) and if the sleeve was stabilized, the problem of the O-ring might heal itself.

I think the StemPod took a tiny bit more learning curve but, Overall, I believe, (eventually) you can probably get equal performance out of either vape.

I also think the StemPod is a bit more stealthy and, I actually like the look better (just personal opinion there). Interchangeable coils... very nice.

Overall an incredible company with a very nice product......

It's that damned outer sleeve.

if those are your only gripes you are robbing yourself by not removing that o-ring. All the issues you have are easily remedied, just give it a try before you give up

 

[Summer]

@Hackerman, I 2nd @almost there.

 

[wall]

For the record this vape is ready to go from unboxing it, you don't need to change coils if you don't want to and the only thing to tinker with is what stem you want to use and how you want to load the stem. I have found that no vapor production comes from the stem not sealing right and air is getting in. I have this issue with the wood evic stem with the S&B pod, it just doesn't seal right. for comparison I have this issue with my firefly 2, if the lid isn't on right and it doesn't have a tight seal then hardly any vapor if any is produced.

This isn't the easiest vape to just pick up and use, its no mighty or fury 2, if you are looking for something simple that requires no skill to get vapor I suggest those. But this vape isn't very hard either. When I was learning to use my FF2 I actually put it away for a while and moved on for a while. One day I decided to give it another try and it's worked well ever since.

The last thing I would do if someone wants to really go the extra mile with it is buy a glass piece that you can see vapor being produced. I use sneakypete's globe with an evic 14mm water adapter and run the globe dry, I can see when the vapor starts being produced and when I need to change my pull for different results.

This vape isn't for everyone and if you find yourself getting frustrated easy it might be better to stay away from it but it really isn't crazy difficult, just a learning curve but that's not for everyone.

Oh and I can't figure out why everyone is so paranoid about the coil glow. I get some coils may not be made to do that but if Dan says it's fine I trust that, I have plenty of vapes that glow when they are heating up so maybe I'm missing something but I don't lose sleep over it.

 

[Summer]

Oh and I can't figure out why everyone is so paranoid about the coil glow. I get some coils may not be made to do that but if Dan says it's fine I trust that, I have plenty of vapes that glow when they are heating up so maybe I'm missing something but I don't lose sleep over it.

Even Dan's glow.

Great post!

 

[Hackerman]

if those are your only gripes you are robbing yourself by not removing that o-ring. All the issues you have are easily remedied, just give it a try before you give up

@Hackerman, I 2nd @almost there.

Until they change something that secures that outer sleeve so the air flow doesn't change every hit.... it stays in "The Drawer" LOL

That was probably the biggest killer.

Awesome product. Incredible company. Believe me, I wish it worked for me. Lock down that sleeve.

 

[jardri]

Until they change something that secures that outer sleeve so the air flow doesn't change every hit.... it stays in "The Drawer" LOL

That was probably the biggest killer.

Awesome product. Incredible company. Believe me, I wish it worked for me. Lock down that sleeve.

But... I haven´t had that issue. All parts are tight and secured. I can´t understand your problem but maybe you lack the inner orings?? Its the only thing i come up because for me that problem doesn´t exist.

 

[Hackerman]

But... I haven´t had that issue. All parts are tight and secured. I can´t understand your problem but maybe you lack the inner orings?? Its the only thing i come up because for me that problem doesn´t exist.

Hmmmm? OK, maybe something is wrong with mine. I remember the damn thing nearly 'spinning' it was so loose.

OK, you have all convinced me to re-visit "The Drawer" [spooky music playing] and bring back the StemPod for another trial........

 

[HerbieVonVapster]

Sincerely,

Something is not right. Users can't replicate experiences and this device is much too dependant on tinkering and randomly falling onto correct settings. I do realize with the world of MODs that performance will vary, but this device should not be sold as "ready to go". It's a DIY device in the purest form, and a lot of effort is left on the user to faciliate its correct usage.

I'm not being difficcult, but I've been with this device for well over 3 weeks, trying to make it my daily driver for its slim style appeal. Zero.

It will perform, but cranking 60watts or glowing red-red coils is not the correct approach.

I made a mistake with this device. I bougth a DNA250C mod, a Tubo Evic Wooden Stem, S&B Capsules, an Alan wood stem, a cooling fin... the device underperforms.


Please rethink, reread.

Really the only way Dan could sell device as ready to go would be in a Mod/stempod combo. I have the same setup as you and get great results with it.

I agree the mod worlds a mess and getting the best performance out of a mod does take tinkering. This is a common issue on most if not all the 510 devices.

If you like your can try the file I'm using or the cvs I listed earlier. Currently playing with the coil of the month but if doesn't work will switch to stock coils see if can pinpoint your problem. You got a lot invested in this would enjoy seeing you get some enjoyment out of it. I sure do.

My StemPod ended up in the 'drawer'.

No offense guys but the Splinter killed the StemPod.

The Good:

The StemPod presentation was awesome (wood case especially). The customer service was incredible. The build quality was tip top (no rattles or other mfgr defects). Standard size stems and adapters. I believe (IME) all those things are missing from anything you buy from RBT. However, the Splinter vape is just simply better (for me).

The constant changing of the air ports in the Stempod (caused by the outer sleeve twisting) were out of the question. You definitely need a way to LOCK that outer sleeve from spinning. That is the single biggest thing that put the vape into the dreaded 'drawer'.

I also didn't like the way the O-ring locks onto the stem and pulls the sleeve off. However, there were options to remove that O-ring (that I did not try) and if the sleeve was stabilized, the problem of the O-ring might heal itself.

I think the StemPod took a tiny bit more learning curve but, Overall, I believe, (eventually) you can probably get equal performance out of either vape.

I also think the StemPod is a bit more stealthy and, I actually like the look better (just personal opinion there). Interchangeable coils... very nice.

Overall an incredible company with a very nice product......

It's that damned outer sleeve.

Sorry to hear and agree the O ring with me was a no go.
My sleeve takes a little force to move and not something that spins easily.

 

[supershredderdan]

Hmmmm? OK, maybe something is wrong with mine. I remember the damn thing nearly 'spinning' it was so loose.

OK, you have all convinced me to re-visit "The Drawer" [spooky music playing] and bring back the StemPod for another trial........

If you want to send yours in we can take a look at it, or send me a video of the looseness problems you are having and maybe we can send you a replacement deck or o rings

 

[Hackerman]

If you want to send yours in we can take a look at it, or send me a video of the looseness problems you are having and maybe we can send you a replacement deck or o rings

Well, I wish I had good news.

I pulled the SP out of "The Drawer" and put some fresh batteries in the RX300. Love the MPL box. Love the look and feel of the StemPod.

I pulled the O-ring out and I liked the way the stem fit. And, you could tell it was not going to pull the outer sleeve off like it was doing before. I was anxious to try again.

I filled a bowl of Hazeman Seeds White Grapes.

I figured I would leave the settings at TCR and try wattage if that didn't work.

I tried to get a few hits and got nothing. Not even a little flavor. No big deal. I'll try one more time. Suddenly I was hit with that horrible taste and that awful smell. It filled the room instantly. My wife was in the kitchen and shouted... "You're smoking that same stink thing again. I can smell it.". She said the same thing last time (see my previous post).

Bang, back in beautiful wood box and back into "The Drawer". I didn't even try to finish that bowl. I dumped it in the ash tray. That is some nasty repugnant shit.

Thanks for the offer but if this thing can stink up an entire room and my wife can smell it 20 feet away in the next room....... I ain't using it. LOL

Sorry bud. I wish I could give you a happy ending. (ah, in a non-gay way. LOL) I'm not the type to send things back or I might be asking for a refund. This thing is unusable, I'm pretty sure, by anyone.

Really sorry.

 

[supershredderdan]

Well, I wish I had good news.

I pulled the SP out of "The Drawer" and put some fresh batteries in the RX300. Love the MPL box. Love the look and feel of the StemPod.

I pulled the O-ring out and I liked the way the stem fit. And, you could tell it was not going to pull the outer sleeve off like it was doing before. I was anxious to try again.

I filled a bowl of Hazeman Seeds White Grapes.

I figured I would leave the settings at TCR and try wattage if that didn't work.

I tried to get a few hits and got nothing. Not even a little flavor. No big deal. I'll try one more time. Suddenly I was hit with that horrible taste and that awful smell. It filled the room instantly. My wife was in the kitchen and shouted... "You're smoking that same stink thing again. I can smell it.". She said the same thing last time (see my previous post).

Bang, back in beautiful wood box and back into "The Drawer". I didn't even try to finish that bowl. I dumped it in the ash tray. That is some nasty repugnant shit.

Thanks for the offer but if this thing can stink up an entire room and my wife can smell it 20 feet away in the next room....... I ain't using it. LOL

Sorry bud. I wish I could give you a happy ending. (ah, in a non-gay way. LOL) I'm not the type to send things back or I might be asking for a refund. This thing is unusable, I'm pretty sure, by anyone.

Really sorry.

What was the "stink"? Like did you combust the bowl or was it the smell of the silicone sleeve or something? Have you tried just dumping everything but the deck in iso? Anyone else had odor problems?

I think you should get used to good hits in wattage before trying to mess with tcr

 

[Hackerman]

What was the "stink"? Like did you combust the bowl or was it the smell of the silicone sleeve or something? Have you tried just dumping everything but the deck in iso? Anyone else had odor problems?

I think you should get used to good hits in wattage before trying to mess with tcr

Definitely didn't combust. Didn't even get a hit. Almost didn't even get hot enough to heat the sleeve. I had it working fairly well last time I tried it. It's not hard to dial in. As I recall, I was using it in wattage mode and had just got to where the coils were barely glowing and I was getting OK hits. At least, as I recall. The smell is what killed it more than anything.

But, wow! Yeah, it's definitely that silicone sleeve (or seems to be). I thought I had it gassed off by using it last time because it seemed to get better with use, but I guess putting it back in the box for a while brought it back. Wow, it is really really bad. Like I said, even in the next room.

And, I used this vape enough the first time to actually build up some vape tar on the stem. So, I feel I gave it a fair burn off period. I don't think this terrible smell is ever going to go away. I did hear one or 2 other people complain about the smell but it does not seem to be a rampant problem. It does not make sense that one vape would have it an another not.

I have no problem tossing it in "The Drawer". It's not a matter of money with me. Like I said, I just wish I could give you a happy ending. But, anything that smells this bad just HAS to be gassing something dangerous.

Thanks for the concern.

 

[supershredderdan]

Definitely didn't combust. Didn't even get a hit. Almost didn't even get hot enough to heat the sleeve. I had it working fairly well last time I tried it. It's not hard to dial in. As I recall, I was using it in wattage mode and had just got to where the coils were barely glowing and I was getting OK hits. At least, as I recall. The smell is what killed it more than anything.

But, wow! Yeah, it's definitely that silicone sleeve (or seems to be). I thought I had it gassed off by using it last time because it seemed to get better with use, but I guess putting it back in the box for a while brought it back. Wow, it is really really bad. Like I said, even in the next room.

And, I used this vape enough the first time to actually build up some vape tar on the stem. So, I feel I gave it a fair burn off period. I don't think this terrible smell is ever going to go away. I did hear one or 2 other people complain about the smell but it does not seem to be a rampant problem. It does not make sense that one vape would have it an another not.

I have no problem tossing it in "The Drawer". It's not a matter of money with me. Like I said, I just wish I could give you a happy ending. But, anything that smells this bad just HAS to be gassing something dangerous.

Thanks for the concern.

It would be helpful if you wanted to send it back to us in exchange for a new unit from the upcoming batch, we would like to explore the odor issues you're talking about first hand.

I'm happy do get the feedback and offer what I can to improve your experience

 

[Hackerman]

It would be helpful if you wanted to send it back to us in exchange for a new unit from the upcoming batch, we would like to explore the odor issues you're talking about first hand.

I'm happy do get the feedback and offer what I can to improve your experience

Well, like I said, I'm not one to return things but if you have a genuine interest in seeing what's going on here, I would absolutely send it back to you to review. I assure you that when you get it and open the package, you will immediately know something is wrong. I can smell it sitting in the box next to me.

Also, giving the girl's post due consideration, if you think this is hurting the reputation of your product or company, we can take it to PM and I'll go back and delete these posts. Otherwise, shoot me a return number of some kind and I'll pack it up and get it off to you tomorrow.

Oh, and when you do get the package from me and open it and the people 10 feet away go, "Phew, what's that smell?", post a little something here about it so a certain member.... a certain FEMALE member realizes that I had a valid comment and ceases to treat me like I am some kind of an ass.

Oh and another thing that is so cool. I was pulling the wooden box out of the bubble wrap and the top of the lid came off. I noticed that it was a little loose when I bought it but it didn't bother me. It was not until a moment ago that I realized it's a super secret stash hideout. LOL

You people are too cool. All class. I really love your presentation and the obvious pride you have in your presentation. No crummy burlap bags for your product.... it deserves better and you know it. LOL I love that attitude, That is the attitude of a successful company run by confident and successful people.

Well, like I said, if you want this one back, let me know.

And, thanks

 

[Hackerman]

MPL decided they want the unit back so I am sending it.

 

[wall]

Awe nuts there goes one of my coils, I'm not a deck builder or tinker kind of guy so I'll leave it be. BUT I do have the quad deck on the way and should be fun to give it a go

 

[TNT_error]

It'd save you a lot of trouble and money if you were to just buy premade coils rather than buying deck after deck since they're the same decks only with a different coil design. You'd just need something to trim the excess wire. The hex tool is already provided .

 

[Summer]

Wouldn't there be a benefit in having 2 decks so you can just swap them out depending on what style of vaping you're in the mood for?

In Dan's stream tonight he showed tri-braid coils going out to the coil of the month club members. Says it works well with a wide-open air flow. Said they provide good flavor & work well with short stems to reduce harshness.

Here's a great pic of The Hook on the Splinter Z; the only pic of the stem on a mod I've seen. (Pic courtesy of ChooChooCharlie.)

 

[jardri]

It would be helpful if you wanted to send it back to us in exchange for a new unit from the upcoming batch, we would like to explore the odor issues you're talking about first hand.

I'm happy do get the feedback and offer what I can to improve your experience

The odor issues are caused by the finishing oil in the wood. That oil reeks and affects flavour. I cleaned my Stempod very thoroughly and that awful taste lasted 2 days. I left the wooden stash in another room ventilating because if i keep anything inside it will get a gross taste that will be very difficult to remove. At first i thought flavor was off but it´s that damned oil that kills it. Once I got rid of that smell I could appreciate good flavour in my unit. Will update if the stink in the wood wears off.

On the other hand I am happy with the stock coils but wonder if there is an improvement with any other coil for wattage mode, could any of you enlighten me?

 

[Hackerman]

The odor issues are caused by the finishing oil in the wood. That oil reeks and affects flavour. I cleaned my Stempod very thoroughly and that awful taste lasted 2 days. I left the wooden stash in another room ventilating because if i keep anything inside it will get a gross taste that will be very difficult to remove. At first i thought flavor was off but it´s that damned oil that kills it. Once I got rid of that smell I could appreciate good flavour in my unit. Will update if the stink in the wood wears off.

Excellent observation.

I have removed my StemPod from the wood box and I am going to let it air out for a while. Then I am going to burn it off again. Then, let it sit for a few days.

And, now that you have said, it.... absolutely, the smell is like burning linseed oil.

I believe we may have located the problem. Awesome post bud. You may have saved the day.

This would also explain why it's not a widespread problem. I don't imagine most people store their SP in the case.

 

[KeroZen]

Aye linseed oil! That smell ain't going away... Pipes used it to finish the Project OG stems and mine smells as strong as day one after all this time...

 

[Hackerman]

@supershredderdan If I remove the red O-ring in the center, can I drop the rest of the sleeve (not coils) into ISO? Just wanting to make sure I don't damage anything.

Can I remove the black rubber/silicone cover and soak it separately?

Thanks

@KeroZen I am not a wood person. Is it linseed for sure. Actually, I guess that is better asked to Shredderdan (unless you have a StemPod box also).

Thanks again

 

[Dubmonkey]

Linseed oil can come off if soaked in sea water for a long time. Like days. Have had wood boards with linseed oil in the ocean. And after 60 hours or so it starts coming off.

I agree with others that the stem mod can be difficult to produce clouds. I feel as if there are to many variables you need to set to get success. The sleeve alone gives me challenges by the ease to change airflow. Still trying it in the mix with my splinter2 and Z. All on top of a dna250c paranormal.

For stempod I get best vapor results through a water piece. Will play around with it some more. But I am contemplating tossing it on to the chopping block.

 

[supershredderdan]

@supershredderdan If I remove the red O-ring in the center, can I drop the rest of the sleeve (not coils) into ISO? Just wanting to make sure I don't damage anything.

Can I remove the black rubber/silicone cover and soak it separately?

Thanks

@KeroZen I am not a wood person. Is it linseed for sure. Actually, I guess that is better asked to Shredderdan (unless you have a StemPod box also).

Thanks again

Yes you can disassemble each piece and soak in iso

 

[HerbieVonVapster]

Humm makes sense on the smell. I preordered and received stempod originally without the storage box.

I have since received the storage box. I tend use stempod a lot and haven't found a need to be stored.

Just went over and gave it a smell. I agree it does have a strong odor and could see remaining on device after removal from stashpod. I think a good cleaning and iso soak should remove the smell. Sadly not sure if theres a way to remove it from the stashpod.

In Dan's stream tonight he showed tri-braid coils going out to the coil of the month club members. Says it works well with a wide-open air flow. Said they provide good flavor & work well with short stems to reduce harshness.

Interesting I'm still using last months super clapton coils. I been enjoying these coils barely any glow. They do require a bit more wattage. After a few weeks of use there showing very little wear. The wires thick and with each coil being 7 wraps (the way I installed them) does great job of heating.


Still I'm Looking forward to something new. Hopefully Dan can keep price low on coil club since I like the ideal. As long as the quality of the 316L Stainless Steel remains good it's a fun way try out different coils.