Buzz 1

Sometimes, amidst all the high-tech orgasmic gadgetry, you just want something sleek and simple. Something that doesn't require mental gymnastics to decipher. Something that cannot be confused with a marine mammal or a pair of miniature purple salad tongs (tongs for which a Toys for Tarts review is coming soon, by the way). Something that won't make your boyfriend's eyes pop out when you slip it into your harness.

Enter *ahem* Buzz 1. This utilitarian, silicone shaft by Tantus, makers of the Feeldoe, is elegant in its functional simplicity--much like the organ after which it was patterned (albeit in a funner color). Available in purple (which is, like, mandatory for today's objet d'fuck), black (which is incredibly sexy in a black leather Jaguar harness), and pink (for MaryKay sales reps).

This product, to my jaded way of thinking, is not a solo toy--like the Hitachi, for example. By that, I mean that using it--and it alone--is like having a scoop of plain vanilla ice cream. Undoubtedly good, but not quite enough to satisfy. It needs something to accentuate its deliciousness. Like a harness. A harness that puts that delightful little bullet vibe in contact with your clit while the smoooooooth shaft glides in and out of your partner. Or, perhaps, if playing alone, a pair of vibrating nipple clamps.

I recommend that every arsenal consist of a basic model like the Buzz 1. Shop around online, though. Prices at the sites I checked varied by as much as $15. And don't forget to pick up the coupon codes we've collected to save a few bucks.

Until next time...

peace & passion,

~ Alessia

Here's what Babeland, who graciously provided the product, has to say:

Smooth, bright and penetrating, this is the family of vibrating silicone dildos our customers have been asking for! Forget about ungainly battery packs, the Buzz 1 comes with a small Zippy Vibe that nestles in the base of the dildo and generates sweet vibration. Great for those looking for a shorter strap-on dildo, this modest sized dildo with semi-realistic head is harness compatible with a 1-1/2" O-ring. Color may vary. Please refer to our return policy for this product.

• Size: 6" x 1-1/4"
• Material: Silicone
• Volume:
• Intensity:
• Batteries: Three watch batteries (included)

Havana Vibrating Plug

It's been my pleasure to spend this past week reviewing the Havana Vibrating Plug.

This gadget is a sweet pink color and made of gentle silicone. The texture is very smooth and there is no offensive plastic odor, even brand new out of the box.

It's a tidy little plug, just 3" x 1-1/4", perfect for the beginner. Even a complete novice to anal play would have little or no difficulty with insertion.

And, unlike most plugs, this toy comes with a bright purple wireless bullet vibrator. Batteries included, the vibe has two speeds: a warm buzz and a much stronger and enjoyable zing. The vibrator slips in and out of the base of the plug fairly easily and the entire unit is waterproof.

This toy is perfect for solo play. Wearing this while utilizing other pleasure enhancing equipment was indeed a true delight. It also added positively to my bathing experiences.

A word of caution: The vibrator protrudes from the end of the toy so make certain to place a washcloth beneath you. If the buzzing bullet vibe loudly connects with the bottom of the tub you may unintentionally alert the entire household as to your adventures.

Though terrific for solo toying this plug was not very practical for partner games, including double penetration. I'd really hoped that the slender size would be an asset to this sort of play but was disappointed.

Because of the narrow shape it tends to not remain in place during extended sexual activity. Even with minimal lube the stem isn't designed to stay solidly embedded.

With my partner vaginally inserted and us in motion, the anal plug quickly slid out and disappeared amid the sheets. We lost track of it until much later.

And, as previously mentioned, the bullet vibrator does stick out of the base of the plug. During a bit of spanking play my partner accidentally hit the on/off switch and managed to stop the vibration completely.

This led to giggling, then some minor adjustments and then more spanking. Which led to the vibe accidentally being turned off yet again followed by more giggling and more adjustments. And then more spanking, of course.

Though not the expected or certainly the desired outcome, it was still enjoyable.

On the plus side, the vibrator held up to the wooden paddle quite well. Ahem.

Overall, with the narrow size and gentle buzz, I think this is a perfect vibrating plug for anal beginners. It's also a nice toy for tub play and for other solo activities. It just isn't as practical to use with a partner or for lengthy sexual play. But there are certainly enough reasons to keep this toy in my nightstand.

~ Sarah Rose

From the Babeland site:

A sweet silicone Havana butt plug with a vibrating heart will have you smiling from cheek to cheek. Slip the waterproof, wireless vibrating bullet into the soft silicone plug to relax muscles and provide extra stimulation, or slide it out to set your other pleasure points abuzz. Pink silicone.

• Size: 3” x 1-1/4”
• Material: Silicone
• Batteries: 3 watch batteries (included)

* This toy graciously provided for review by Babeland.

Nipplettes Vibrating Clamps

I so look forward to going to the post office when I know I'll open my box and find that yellow you've-got-a-package slip inside! The past week was no exception, as a shipment from Babeland awaited pickup. Of the four products sent for Toys for Tarts to review, I was most eager to try the Nipplettes Vibrating Clamps.

I had high hopes that these cute, pink pinchers would not be as heavy as similar products, for the weight combined with the vibration often requires the clamp to be tightened beyond that point of deliciously painful pressure in order to stay where you want 'em -- even when horizontal. Sweat, other *cough* bodily fluids, lotions, lubes, or oils just compound that slippery problem.

These babies are essentially bullet vibes with a spring clip attached. They're made of a rigid, lightweight rubber (which aids their stay-put-edness). Each takes 3 button batteries. The product comes with a set installed and an extra set, so you're ready to rock-n-roll right out of the box. The tension can be adjusted via a small, plastic thumb screw. For me, the tightest setting was not the least bit uncomfortable -- and any loosening of the screw resulted in slippage when powered on, even without any of the slip-inducing factors mentioned above.

For bullets, these have a decent vibration that is not smothered by the casing. The higher-frequency buzz is not as stimulating to me as the deep, thrumming resonance of more powerful toys, but they make a nice addition that frees the hands to attend to other erogenous zones. Hassle-free, simple on/off toys that can be grabbed on impulse. Yeah, these will stay in my nightstand within easy reach.

And, speaking of other erogenous zones... while the packaging might SAY they're nipple clamps, I've never been one to follow instructions. I am pierced on one of the two appendages for which this product is intended, and that side really doesn't need any additional stimulation -- if you get my drift. So, I had the bright idea to put it to good use below the waist. What an intensely delightful discovery! I think these puppies should be sold in THREEs. Seriously.

Two of the remaining four products in the shipment have been farmed out to intrepid Toys for Tarts volunteer reviewers. Their reviews will be posted in the coming weeks, after they've had time to thoroughly *ahem* field test them. As for me, I'll be reviewing this one next. Is my halo on straight?

Until next time...

peace & passion,

~ Alessia

* This toy graciously provided for review by Babeland.

Je Joue

Reviews wanted! Has anyone tried this toy?

Snugglepuss

From the Eden Fantasys website:

At first glance, it may look like some kind of a sea creature, but it is actually the Snugglepuss from Vibratex. The Snugglepuss is the newest, hands free vibrator for simultaneous G-Spot and clitoral stimulation. The toy is flexible, so you simply pull the two sides apart and you can insert the G-Spot end while the clitoral end rests against you on the outside. This toy is made out of elastomer, so it's very soft and comfortable. Each end is also covered in soft textural nubs to amp up the stimulation and increase your satisfaction. The clitoral end also has two fins on either side that provide added sensations for labia stimulation. To activate your Snugglepuss, simply roll back the sleeve on the clitoral stimulator, open the battery compartment and remove the protection sticker. After you've done that, your toy is instantly turned on when the two sides are pulled apart from one another. So there are no buttons to fumble with. Comes with 3 watch sized batteries.

Hmm. If you're after g-spot stimulation beyond just pressure, get another toy. The vibrations in the exterior arm of this one are simply not strong enough to be felt inside. They're really not all that strong outside either, but this puppy didn't interest me a solo toy. I thought it'd be a great hands-free adjunct for anal. The fit is fine. It stays put, freeing the hands for other places in need of attention. I just don't think it'd be good for much else, unless you wanted to wear it around all day as a teaser. I seriously doubt it's able to "do the job" by itself, but it might be kinda neat as part of an extended foreplay-ish game.

Also available at Babeland.

Waterproof Double Penetrator

A Toys for Tarts guest review:

Wow. And likewise yum. This lovely toy is my new favorite. The batteries pop right in, and then the cap locks down, which has the advantage of keeping water out of the battery compartment and also prevents a sudden loss of power if the user twists the cap a little too hard. The jelly covering is softish, but the vibe itself is rigid enough to be inserted without the gyrations needed with the Scorpion.

The circumference on this toy is perfect—the vaginal arm is big enough to make this user feel full and a bit stretched, but not so big as to be painful. The anal probe is perfectly sized as well.The veins are raised enough to be palpable and add a wonderful sensation when thrusting. The speeds range from a gentle caress to “oh god ohgod ohgod DAMN” with a slight twist of the cap. The motor’s placement towards the top of the vaginal shaft makes deep thrusting an exquisite pleasure.

So far, the Double Penetrator has proven to be as waterproof as it claims to be. After five or six uses in the shower or the tub, it shows no sign of water in the battery compartment. All in all, this is a wonderful toy for solo or couple play.

Overall, this toy is a definite YES, and even better, it’s on sale right now.

* This toy graciously provided for review by Xandria

Ring of Xtasy

Cock rings always look so much bigger in pictures, and this one is no exception. With your garden-variety bullet-toting cock ring, quality is gauged in two ways: (a) vibration, and (b) fit. Unfortunately, this particular product gets a B- on both prongs of the quality test. It's a decent enough toy, but the bullet vibe isn't very powerful & it burned through a set of batteries in one session. (Okay, granted I was riding it for a while, but even so ...)

From my perspective, the only enhancement provided by the toy was the hardness of the bullet sandwiched between my partner and me. It was nice to grind against. My partner reported no enhancement (beyond the enjoyment of watching me do said grinding *wink*).

The blurb says:

Made of super stretch silicone this heart-shaped ring is soft with a snug and comfortable fit. The mega powered bullet sends the bunny ears into strong rapid motion for steady clitoral stimulation. Easy on/off push button for the bullet. Embedded hearts on the ring aid in providing friction and labial stimulation. Requires 2 button cell batteries - 2 sets are included.

Soft, yes. Comfortable, yes. Snug, no. "Mega powered," no. Easy on/off, yes. The "embedded hearts" (i.e., little bumps) didn't add to the friction that I could discern.

This is, unfortunately, a product that will most likely spend the rest of its life in the bottom of my toy bag.

* This toy graciously provided for review by Xandria

Scorpion

A Toys for Tarts guest review:

At first glance, the most noticeable facet of the Scorpion vibe is the contrast between the sparkly purple body and the bright blue heads on the double prongs. At a closer look, it’s possible to tell on sight and even better, by touch, that the bright blue heads are fairly realistic in shape. Straight out of the box, this jelly toy does have the familiar, slightly plastic-y scent and tacky texture, but both disappear after a wash or two.

It would have been easier to install the batteries with a diagram, as the battery compartment isn’t very clearly marked for where to put the two AAs required. However, once the batteries are inserted, the cap of the battery compartment locks into place, making it less likely that the user will twist the cap too far and empty the batteries out on the bed while in search of a faster speed.

One difficulty with the Scorpion is the lack of rigidity, a problem typical for jelly toys. The very flexibility of the toy makes self-insertion a tricky process, requiring some limberness and dexterity. It is not a great toy for spur of the moment orgasms, but rather one for slow, lingering use or adventurous couple's play.

Once in, though, the toy provides a nice combination of multiple stimulations. The rounded balls along the vaginal prong massage inside, while the head is positioned very nicely for G-spot stimulation. The smaller, slimmer anal wand is curved in, and its rounded head provides a nice feeling of fullness. The multi-speed vibrations range from a teasing tickle to a serious throbbing, and while the motor seems loud at first, it’s muffled fairly well when the toy is fully inserted. There’s a nice four-inch shaft left outside, which can be used as a handle for thrusting, swiveling or bouncing, any of which can greatly enhance the experience.

Having gotten all too used to weekend quickie orgasms in bed or the shower, slowing down and spending some time with the Scorpion was a very nice change for me. I’d recommend trying it.

* This toy graciously provided for review by Xandria

Silicone Slims

There are some good points about this small toy. The vibrations are pretty strong, particularly for a toy depending on two AA batteries. The cord is long enough to keep the handle in a comfortable position, and the protrusions make it safe to use either vaginally or anally. It’s also quite easy to clean, despite the ridges, and it does not have the plastic-y or fake fruity scent you get with a lot of jelly toys.

Unfortunately, cute and pink as this little vibe is, it fails at its stated purpose of providing simultaneous vaginal and clitoral stimulation. The “external stimulator” is not rigid enough to vibrate when the toy has been inserted. It does provide vaginal or anal stimulation, but the extension just doesn’t vibrate against the clitoris the way it’s supposed to.

Thanks to the silicone, this is the Elmer Fudd of vibrators. Once inserted, it is vewy, vewy qwiet. I field-tested it at the office, and found that the cord is long enough to lead from pussy to pocket, or from ass to pocket, and nobody in the office could hear a thing, even with the vibrations set to the strongest level.

Overall, while this toy doesn’t quite live up to its billing, it does come in handy when you need a quiet thrill. ;-)

Hitachi Magic Wand

Babeland says: "Known as ithe 'Cadillac of vibrators,' this is perhaps the world's most popular vibrating toy. Similar in look and feel to the Acuvibe, its strong vibration makes it an unfailing friend in masturbation, and its symmetrical shape makes it a natural for partnered, face-to-face fun. For penetration options, check out the G-Whiz, the Deluxe G-spotter and the Wonderwand attachments. Runs on 110v power, needs a converter for 240v. Two speeds, spongy head. 12" long, head 2 1/2" in diameter."

And Clitical adds:

"I was thrilled to receive the Hitachi Magic Wand to review because I had heard some good things about it. But when I opened the box I had to take a moment to adjust my thinking. Not because I didn't think it was going to be a good toy, but because it is a bit imposing. It's more like an appliance than a toy, complete with a power cord. Because of the uniqueness of this toy, I had to use several sessions in order to adequately preview this toy - especially since I was also supplied with two attachments for it, The G Cap and the Gee Whiz.

"What does it look like? It's approximately 12" long with a 2 ½” bulbous head. The controls consisted of one button with high and low settings. The power cord is approximately 48" long, which was long enough to plug in near my headboard, and gave me adequate room for moving around the bed.

"My first concern was the sound. In all honesty - it does sound like a buzz saw. Okay, maybe not quite that loud, but it is loud enough that I turned in on, left it on my bed covered with the quilt and then went to the kid's rooms to see if I could hear it. In my case, I could not hear it from there, but I still think the noise might be enough of a distraction that you should probably check it out ahead of time so you won't have to worry complaint calls from the neighbors.

"Usually I will use a lubricant with my toys, but I wanted to try this first without it. This toy is not designed to be directly inserted; it is used primarily for clitoral and vulva stimulation. The vibration this toy offers is intense - extremely strong. I appreciated the fact that I could choose between high and low. Manipulating the controls were as easy as sliding my finger from one side of the switch to the other. Maneuvering the Wand itself though was a bit oxy. I found that standing it on end and using a blanket to help hold it upright allowed me to move my hips against the vibrating head. However, that meant that the sound from the vibration was transferred to the bed, which made it sound even louder.

"I will admit that my first orgasm from this toy was a shock! It was so intense and happened so fast that it took me by surprise.

"The next time I took it out for a drive, I used a lubricant, and I found that it still offered great sensations, but they were not quite as intense. I was able to hold it more directly on my clitoris without having to pull it away because of the intensity. But make sure you don't have any lubricant on the hand that you intend to use to hold the Wand though, because the body of the Wand is smooth, and with lube on your hand it's difficult to hold onto.

"I did find that the strength of the vibration sometimes caused me to become numb, which isn't exactly what your objective should be. It makes reaching orgasm a bit more difficult when you cannot feel anything. But if you hold it on the clitoris for a bit, then moved it around before coming back to the clit that it worked a lot better.

"The two attachments the G Cap and the Gee Whizz are similar in that they both fit snuggly over the head of the Hitachi Magic Wand and have appendages that are designed for insertion into the vagina. But that is about all they have in common.

"The G Cap is the less expensive of the two attachments. It is made of firm yet flexible rubber. The part that is intended for insertion is approximately 4 ½” long and about 1” in diameter. Because it is firm it is easy to slide into position - especially with a little added lube. Finding the correct position for optimum enjoyment with this toy did take a bit of work because with the attachment on, the whole toy is heavier on one end, so being able to put the tip right where you want it is fairly important.

"The Gee Whizz is made of silicone, and looks more like a penis. Not a huge penis (approximately 4” x 1 ½”). It’s just long enough to be able to reach the g-spot. Because this one is made of silicone, it is softer, and I found it harder to maneuver into a position where it did stimulate the g-spot.

"There is a substantial difference in cost between the two attachments - with the G Cap selling for about $15 and the Gee Whizz selling for about $48. After testing the two, I found that the G Cap worked better for me.

"What did I like the best about the Hitachi Magic Wand? No batteries. Not a one in sight. It delivered a constant level of vibration without having to worry about when the batteries were going to die on me."

Lastly, read what Betty Dodson has to say about the Hitachi Magic Wand.

Talking Head Vibrator

What will they think of next?

My Little Secret LLC's "Talking Head Vibrator" is a rabbit style vibrator with a voice-recorder chip in its base. Instead of just a steady buzzing drone, users can record their voice (or someone else's voice) to enhance their experience with audio.

Recording is done through a special chip, referred to as a "cartridge key." For long-distance or cyber lovers, audio files can be produced, e-mailed, and downloaded into the recording device. A variety of pre-recorded chips are also available.

So, tarts, what do you make of this?

Flex-O-Pleaser (Swedish Erotica)

The Flex-O-Pleaser from Swedish Erotica (not to be confused with the product of the same name from Beyond 2000) is marketed as a g-spot vibe. Takes 2 C batteries. (Toys for Tarts does not recommend anal insertion of this product, even with a condom.)

Here's what Libida says: "Tuck the long handle between bodies during partner sex to pleasure your clitoris, and angle the vibrating head to hit the G-spot during penetration. The Flex-O-Pleaser expands options for larger women and people with disabilities."

And, read what Clitical had to say HERE.

Just $10 via the linked photo!

Highjoy iVibe Rabbit

Taking yesterday's review one step further, we have the Highjoy iVibe Rabbit. From the website:

"The world’s most popular vibrator can now be controlled over the Internet! Imagine engaging a partner in an Online Sex session at Highjoy.com, and having an orgasm with them hundreds of miles away. High Joy Enabled® technology can also be controlled locally through your computer (by you) and completely standalone, like its predecessor. The iVibe shaft is 5.5” long, 1.25” wide, and the clit stimulator is 3” long; requires 4 AA batteries (sold separately). Internet Enabled Requirements: Windows® 98 SE or later, Internet Connection, Serial port (COM port) or USB Port (serial to USB adapter sold separately), a HighJoy.com Membership."

Mojo Garden (which offers this product at roughly the same price as a regular iVibe Rabbit) says:

"The Highjoy Internet Enabled Rabbit vibe, the most technologically advanced vibrator ever created. The Doc Johnson Highjoy Internet Enabled Rabbit is the first sex toy that allows its users total remote online operation and offers a sexual encounter unlike any other.

"The Highjoy Internet Enabled Rabbit is a technologically-advanced version of the famous iRabbit, the vibrator featured on national television. The new 'Doc Johnson Internet Enabled Rabbit' vibrator has all the features of the classic model, with the addition of remote Internet controls that work at HighJoy.com, an online community.

"The HighJoy.com Online Dating Community offers adults everything that traditional Online Dating sites do and much more. Members can post a profile, search profiles, send emails, create favorites, etc. In addition, HighJoy.com members will be able to chat with other members in public lounges, privately audio/video/text chat, and when things get intimate, control another person's Doc Johnson High Joy Enabled Rabbit vibrator sex toy over the Internet to engage in safe, discreet Online sex.

"What this means is that two consenting adults may have total interaction through visual, sound and now the stimulation and touch provided by an adult toy. The speed and intensity of the Highjoy Internet Enabled Rabbit vibrator will be totally controlled by the remote operator while both participants are in full verbal and visual contact. The Highjoy Internet Enabled Rabbit has three distinct settings that allow its user a variety of different experiences. The most revolutionary feature of the Highjoy Internet Enabled Rabbit is its ability to connect with other users online. Through this feature you control the intensity of your partner's stimulation through each other's computer. This will provides a place where couples in long-distance relationships or those with demanding travel schedules may maximize their intimacy. It's also a resource for those wishing to interact with others interested in the safest sex possible.

"The Hi-joy Enabled setting allows the Rabbit to be controlled locally while surfing content or watching an adult DVD on the computer. It may receive scripts over the Internet, and from adult films. Scripts are pre-programmed settings that are available as downloads to the vibrator, and allow the user to experience a uniquely created program, with the same motion as the actors on his or her favorite adult video.

"The Highjoy Internet Enabled Rabbit vibrator can also be used apart from the Internet exactly like the original as a freestanding vibrator. The iVibe Rabbit shaft is 5.5 inches long, 1.25 inches wide, and the clit stimulator is 3 inches long; requires 4 AA batteries (sold separately). Internet Enabled Requirements: Windows 98 SE or later, Internet Connection, Serial port (COM port) or USB Port (serial to USB adapter sold separately), a HighJoy.com Membership."

Toys for Tarts wants to hear from HighJoy members! Send us your reviews!

iVibe Rabbit

Here's what Freddy & Eddy had to say about Doc Johnson's iVibe Rabbit:

"Now having experienced four different 'rabbit' style vibrators, I had to admit that trying yet another one didn't exactly give me goose bumps. Yes, one did give me my first vaginal orgasm (the Vibratex Charmer), but aside from that the only distinguishing characteristics seem to be size and color. Hence, when the new iVibe Rabbit vibe arrived on August 1st, I didn't exactly rush to release it from its packaging.

"Once I did, however, all I can say is WOW!!! Not only did this product take me to the 'big O' in several unique ways, but it turned out to be one of the most advanced sex toys we've ever tested. Freddy and I could hardly believe that so much technology could be applied to a woman's privates and we are still finding new combinations to work me into a frenzied state.

"Dimension-wise, the Rabbit measures 9.5" from base to tip, 7" of which protrudes upward from the top of the base. The girth is 1.5" at its widest point and the rabbit 'ears' extend upward 2", meaning you must insert the device approximately 3-4" for it to make contact with your clitoris. As you can see from the picture above, a 1.5" section of rotating beads are located along the shaft, just above the ears. It is a little larger than I prefer, but I seem to be getting more tolerant with each review.

"Where the Rabbit earns its ears, so to speak, are in its controls. Not only does it have three independent operating sections (the ears, the beads, and the rotating tip), but each can be controlled with complete independence from the others. You can, for example, control the rotating head to go in different directions, rotate, move forward and reverse, or all three in sequence AND vary the speed. The same applies to the beads, where you can alter the speed and direction with which they move, and the rabbit ears, which can be started with a subtle purr and turned up to the point at which your hand will literally become numb if you hold it too long. Amazingly, you can almost never run out of combinations or speeds to satisfy your moods. However, there are several pre-programmed modes to make it easier to simply turn it on without having to think about what you wish to do.

"Once in action, I simply stayed with the rotating head and rabbit ears, which were more than enough to work me up. I LOVE clit stimulation and the extra powerful rabbit ears were certainly more than I could handle (I never reached maximum power and doubt I ever will). I'm not a huge fan of the rotating beads in any of these types of devices (just a tad too rough on my insides), but using the iVibe's at low setting produced very pleasant sensations and I'm slowly coming around (pun intended) to liking their effect.

"In summary, this toy ROCKS! Not only do I find it to be the most advanced sex toy I've ever used, but it makes for great experimentation with Freddy, who never shies away from such things. Its phenomenal controls, nice size, and quality construction (as solid as the Pocket Rocket) make it a great addition to our arsenal (and you can imagine what our collection looks like by now). A definite must-have."

Jack Rabbit Harness

The classic Original Rabbit design coupled with an innovative fully adjustable, crotchless, leather, sturdy, high quality strap-on harness.

Uniquely designed, the Jack Rabbit snaps into the comfortable harness for secure thrusting action. Removable dong with non-jamming, synchronized metal beads may be used with or without the harness.

Extensions straps accommodate most shapes and sizes. Powered by the independently operated power pack. Takes 3 AA batteries.

Jesse's Vibro Toy

I opened the package and thought, "It's a glorified bullet vibe." And technically, it is just that. It has that high-pitched beehive type vibration which is standard for bullet vibes. Y'know, the type that takes next to FOREVER to get you off? Unlike other bullets, however, this one has a tongue. It's a niiiiiiiice tongue, too!

Until I experienced this toy, I had relegated bullet vibes to the "supplementary" category. In other words, an enjoyable (non-threatening) add-on for partner play, but not "front line" orgasmic material (like a Hitachi Magic Wand or a jackrabbit-style vibe).

Jesse's Vibro Toy is made by California Exotic Novelties. It's a small (3") rigid plastic waterproof "micro massager" with a removable jelly sleeve. Takes 3 button sized batteries. Six are included. (A nice touch!) I preferred using it with the sleeve on ('cause, again, that tongue is quite nice).

Toys for Tarts found a WIDE range of prices for this product online -- anywhere from $19.00 all the way up to $44.95 -- so shop around. (Clicking on the picture will take you to the store with the lowest price that we found.) I'd pay up to $25 for this toy, but not a penny more -- especially since rechargeable button batteries aren't available.

* This toy graciously provided for review by Xandria

Flex-O-Pleaser (Beyond 2000)

Not to be confused with the Swedish Erotica product of the same name, the Beyond 2000 Flex-O-Pleaser has ten speed settings and five vibrating/pulsing functions. It can be used for g-spot or prostate stimulation (as well as, obviously, for nipples and clitoris). The arm is very flexible yet holds its position well until readjusted. An LED readout shows vibration/pulsation levels. Its length is 10" overall, and the vibrating head is 2.5" long. Takes two AA batteries (which users will want to remove before storing, because the controls are VERY sensitive).

NOTE: This reviewer would not recommend using the Beyond 2000 Flex-O-Pleaser anally. The vibrating head can become separated from the flexible arm and, while still connected via the wires (so it probably wouldn't be "lost"), extraction might be rather unpleasant.

I Rub My Duckie

Here's what JT's Stockroom had to say:

"These floating, waterproof little guys sit by your bath, jacuzzi, or bed with nothing more than those big innocent blue eyes to give away their real purpose in life. Squeeze their backs and watch your smile grow as they seduce you and massage your tensions away."

The strong, but quiet, motor of this Big Teaze Toys product is powered by two AA batteries (included). Different colors (yellow, pink, black), models (regular, bondage, devil), and sizes (regular, travel) are available. Most prices were under $20. (Watch out for shipping charges in the stores with the lowest prices. They often make up the difference, there.)

Ultime

Here's what Erotic Massagers had to say:

"The most obvious [use], of course, is that the tapered end would be used to stimulate the g-spot while the flatter end would rest against the clitoris. After experimenting with a few different positions, I found that straddling the vibrator provided far better g-spot stimulation than lying on my back. Because this particular unit has no 'handle', as it were, controlling it from a prone position proved somewhat challenging. When the Ultime is straddled, however, I found it much easier to control the angle and depth of penetration by moving my hips. The added benefit of this is that it also left my hands free for other things. Using the flat end of the Ultime to rock the unit in semi circle also provides a particularly delightful sensation against the g-spot.

"Women who prefer a stronger level of clitoral stimulation may find that they need to add in a little manual play as the external portion has a rather weak vibration even on the highest setting. While the size of the Ultime could be a little difficult to work with during intercourse, it is a fun vibe for use during foreplay. Flipped upside down, the flat end nicely vibrates against the perineum while the tapered end stimulates the AFE Zone leaving your clitoris free for oral or mnual pleasuring. The U-shape also works rather well to cup the balls and stimulate the base of the penis during manual or oral play. If your lover happens to enjoy anal stimulation, the tapered end is well shaped for prostate stimulation as well. (Just remember to use a condom on the vibe if you’re sharing).

"All told, the Ultime is definitely worth adding to your toy chest. It’s unique shape makes it fun to experiment with both on solo and couple adventures. It is relatively quiet and, as is the case with all the vibes from Natural Contours, it is beautifully designed."

Pearl Butterfly

This attractive multi-function vibrator by California Exotic Novelties offers a butterfly clitoral stimulator rather than the standard bunny rabbit ears. The wings of the butterfly (a full 2.5" tip-to-tip) cup the labia while its body vibrates in between. Some women may like this, but this reviewer thought it muted the intensity of the vibrations by squeezing the labia together.

The area spanned by the rotating pearls in the shaft is considerably larger than other such products, providing broader coverage for internal stimulation -- but it also makes a considerably louder grinding noise. The shaft is 7" long and 5" in circumference -- quite filling, indeed.

Takes 3 AA batteries in the base. (The battery compartment door was rather loose, occasionally slipping open during use.) It has separate sliding controls (also in the base) for the vibration of the butterfly and the rotation of the pearls. As with other products of this style, it is easy to bump the controls during use -- changing the speed without intending to do so, which can be rather distracting.

California Exotic Novelties' products tend to work fairly well -- but not be very durable. Unfortunately, 4 of every 5 toys on the market seem to be from this manufacturer. As this is an older product, we can hope that its newer products are of greater quality.

Prices online are all over the map! From $127.50 all the way down to the low-thirty dollar range. Do NOT pay more than $40 for this product, and (for a few dollars more) you can do a LOT better with other jackrabbit style products. (Check out the Vibratex Rabbit Habit, for starters. It's not quite as girthy, but the quality completely blows the Pearl Butterfly out of the water.)