I've only just placed an order for a Lithe now, but I still feel the need to come back here and let everyone know how great the service I've experienced so far has been. I emailed asking if there was a way to get a Lithe to me by a certain day, and I got a response to my question within minutes, and within the space of a half hour or so I was bumped up to priority shipping at no extra cost and given the 7% FC discount.
I'll be sure to report back once the vape is here, but on the subject of Brass v SS v Aluminum, I'm perfectly alright knowing I'll be getting a brass unit. I do really prefer the aesthetic, and so will, I know, the person I'm purchasing this as a gift for. I also have a fair bit of experience working with pure and almost pure lead, and feel very confident in this alloy.
All in all, I'd really like to thank Alex for all his help. The vaporizer community on the whole is so delightful to deal with.
Edit: 11-5
The Lithe just hit my doorstep, even better looking than I'd expected. It's well balanced in the hand, too. It'll be a few days before it gets tested, but when that comes about I'll share what I think back here again.