There’s been some hoopla and excitement surrounding this new toy company, Evolved Novelties, so when I was offered the opportunity to review one of their toys, I was too curious to say no. I received the Rhapsody, Symphony Edition (yes, they name their toys as though they are special DVDs) and it is, by most accounts, a fairly traditional vibrator.
Only two things distinguish this toy from the slush pile of straight-shafted vibes: it’s made of TPR (thermoplastic rubber), and it comes in a fancy tin box. And hey, I’ll give props to Evolved for the unique packaging — the box is a sexy red brandished with raised letters, flourishes, and their slogan, “Love is Back.” The lid doesn’t lock into place on its own; there are two clasps that can be closed upon it, though, and they hold it closed tightly. The vibrator comes snuggled in some black foam. There’s no mention of the contents being a vibrator or sex toy; however, it does say “3 speed” and “phthalate free” on the side, and if that doesn’t give it away, the phallic-shaped cut-out on top probably will. So sex toys only in this box, I’d say.
I should mention that the bottom of the box has a really odd sentence written on it: “This product is sold and should be used as an adult novelty only and should never be other than for external use.” Now, I’ve seen a lot of sex toy packaging, and a lot of “for novelty use only” messages, but I don’t recall any package ever explicitly forbidding the actual implied use of the toy itself. I know Evolved is probably just trying to cover their asses, but this takes skirting responsibility to new heights.
Also, the use of TPR isn’t really that commendable. Sure, in comparison to jelly, TPR certainly wins out, but it’s still porous and it’s far from the safest and most versatile material out there. This vibe is very pliable, somewhat tacky in texture, and has a slight synthetic smell to it, but I’ve seen/felt/smelled worse. The base of the toy is made of silky plastic (I’m guessing rubber cote of some sort) and is a bit large, but I found that to be a positive feature, as it makes the vibe easy to hold and thrust with.
The base unscrews to reveal the complicated battery compartment, which involves removing a piece of plastic, putting two AAs in it, and sliding it back in. I hate that kind of battery compartment, but whatever. Vibration is controlled by a small circular button on the base, which is fine, seeing as there are only three speeds. The bullet is located in the tip of the shaft — nice move, Evolved — and the vibrations are pretty damn strong. Due to being wedged inside TPR, the sound of the bullet is diffused, but the highest setting is still fairly loud.
Despite the shortcomings of TPR, I really enjoyed using this vibe. It was a good thickness and filled me up nicely, and the all three vibration levels were delicious and easily felt. I couldn’t feel the texture of the shaft, which looks woven or something, but I didn’t expect to be able to, as the texture is far too subtle. Thrusting was easy and quite pleasurable.
Since the bullet is in the tip of the shaft, I even tried this vibe on my clit. And it wasn’t so bad! I normally like very pinpointed stimulation on my clit, but the Rhapsody’s vibrations were strong enough to satisfy me (at least for a while).
So while this vibe was very pleasant to use, I don’t see it as a particularly special toy. My biggest qualm with it is the material. Even if you create the coolest vibrator imaginable, I will not be impressed unless it is made of a completely body safe and nonporous material (100% silicone, glass, steel, etc). In the end, I would recommend this if you don’t mind a porous material, like thicker toys, and want strong vibrations. Otherwise, there is certainly something better out there for you (might I suggest a Fun Factory vibrator?).
Peruse the Evolved line at SheVibe.
