app controlled vibe Archives

[Toy Review] Monster Pub Dr Whale 2

Published on April 19, 2022April 19, 2022 by Amy1 Comment

You’ve heard of rabbit vibrators. You’ve probably heard of Satisfyer’s famous Penguin clitoral suction toy. But have you ever seen a whale vibrator before? Well, now you have! Specifically, the Dr Whale vibrator, which I recently received to test and review.

Monster Pub Dr Whale 2: Basics

The Dr Whale 2 is a curved vibrator shaped like a little whale. It measures 7 inches in total when stretched out flat (4 inches insertable) and 1.3 inches in diameter at the widest point. It houses two motors, one in the whale’s “body” and one in its tail.

The Dr Whale 2 is coated in soft and body-safe silicone in a pretty shade of pale blue. It is rechargeable via the included USB cable and you get 120 minutes use out of a full charge. You also get a storage bag for the toy.

Confusingly, the website says the toy is waterproof but the included instruction booklet says NOT to submerge it in water. I’m going to assume that means it’s splashproof only, though I’m not entirely sure. I didn’t want to risk breaking it by submerging it. For a toy of this price point, though, I feel like “waterproof” should come as standard.

The Dr Whale 2 features an internal heating element that warms up to a comfortable 42C within a couple minutes of being switched on. Most intriguing of all, it is controllable via the Monster Pub app (available free on iOS and Android).

App-Controlled Kegel Exerciser

One of the advertised purposes of the Dr Whale 2 is as a kegel exerciser. Performing kegel exercises regularly can help strengthen your pelvic floor, which some evidence shows has a variety of benefits from better bladder control to stronger orgasms. I delved into some of the science on kegel exercises a long time ago on this blog, and anecdotal evidence seems to suggest that while using internal exercisers like the Dr Whale 2 doesn’t necessarily make the kegel exercises more effective, using one might make you more likely to perform them regularly.

I downloaded the app and the toy connected easily. The connection is good, reliable and steady as long as you have a stable internet connection.

You have to set up an account on the app, which takes a few seconds. It also asks you to select your gender, but only offers “girl” and “boy” (which is weirdly infantilising as well as annoyingly binary.)

The app then asked me to complete a “Q&A For Girls” which consists of a few questions about whether you’re using the app alone or with a lover and whether you want to share it with a partner. It also, however, includes THIS:

I strongly suspect this is just some really, really bad Google Translate but the last thing I want to see in a sex toy app is talk of being “molested”. Gross. It also gives me pause about the app’s security and safety. Is it likely that someone is going to randomly take control of my toy? Because that’s, erm, deeply concerning if so.

Once you’re in, you can choose from a range of pre-set patterns and those created by other users. You can also create your own using the “Gesture” mode, connect with a partner via chat tools such as WeChat or WhatsApp, or make the vibes respond to movement with the “Action/Reaction” mode.

If you go into the “Health” tab at the top of the screen, you’ll find the various kegel exercise section. In this mode, a voice talks you through a range of exercises. The sessions are pretty short, stating at just 3 minutes, so they’re quite accessible. If you need a little extra encouragement to do kegel exercises regularly, you might enjoy being gently talked through it by the narrator’s soothing voice. I certainly find it helps me to actually bother doing my exercises!

The app responsiveness is good. It’s also fairly intuitive to use, with just a few basic controls to get your head around.

What About as a Sex Toy?

I like the shape and flexibility of the Dr Whale 2. I also really like the gently ridged texture of the silicone on one side of the whale’s body. Its flexy tail means it will work for a variety of bodies and comfortable positioning is easy. The downside of the flexible tail is that, when you’ve inserted the toy, it’s difficult to get a satisfying amount of clitoral pressure.

I’m not really a fan of internal vibrations, though, so I soon turned to using it solely as a clitoral toy.

Unfortunately, the Dr Whale 2 really falls down for me on power. It’s not the worst by any stretch, and I’ve certainly used more expensive toys that were packing less of a punch than this one. But ultimately the vibrations are of mediocre strength and very buzzy. This toy is highly unlikely to ever get me off.

Verdict

A mixed bag here.

I do think the Dr Whale 2 is a good kegel exerciser. The guided sessions on the app are a nice touch and the vibrations add more pleasure to the whole process. As a sex toy, though, I’m unlikely to ever use it again. It’s just too buzzy and not really powerful enough to be satisfying.

The Monster Pub Dr Whale 2 retails for $119.00.

This review was sponsored, meaning the company paid me to write an honest review. All views and experiences are my own.

Header for post about the best vibrators for long-distance couples

What are the Best Vibrators for Long Distance Play?

Published on March 19, 2022March 18, 2022 by AmyLeave a comment

I’m not in a serious long distance relationship at the moment (though I do have a lovely long distance play partner). But until a few months ago, I had a partner who lived in a different city. We saw each other about once a month, and kept in touch using various methods in between. We texted, sexted, had virtual dates, and – yes – occasionally played with remote vibrators.

Sales of high-tech, remote-capable sex toys boomed in the first months of the Covid-19 pandemic. Whether you’re temporarily separated by travel restrictions, one of you is travelling for work, or you currently (or permanently) live apart, you can enjoy sex from anywhere in the world with the right remote sex toy.

This is just one of the use-cases for the large, and growing, market for sex toys that can be controlled over long distances. If you enjoy the thrill of wearing a sex toy out and about and handing control to your partner, a long-distance vibrator can also be a good investment. They tend to be much more reliable than the ones with short-range handheld remotes.

Another popular use-case for long-distance vibrators is for those who do online camming. Say you’ve set up your custom Chaturbate profile and built a loyal following, what’s next? Many performers find that using a remote vibe, and allowing fans to take control of it in exchange for tips, is a fun way to boost their earnings. Lovense toys are specifically designed with this functionality in mind.

But what are the best vibrators for long distance couples, cam models, and anyone else who needs a toy with remote control capability? Turns out that’s not a simple question to answer. Here are a few things you might want to consider to help you choose the best long-distance sex toy for YOU.

What’s Your Budget?

App-controlled and long distance sex toys are becoming more accessible, price-wise, as more and more companies are making them. You might say that sex tech has gone mainstream! Even so, there are products available at a wide range of price points. Lower priced products in this category tend to start at around the $80 mark, but you can easily spend hundreds of dollars for high-end products from some brands.

Before you start shopping, decide on your budget. You might need to compromise on some features, depending on how much you want to spend. Which brings us to…

Which Features Matter Most to You?

You should also consider which features you want your toys to have and what matters the most to you. For some people, the most important feature will be the toy’s level of power. Though there are exceptions, many people who use sex toys tend to prefer strong, rumbly vibrations over weaker, buzzier ones.

App reliability is another big factor to consider. You don’t want the connection to keep dropping in the middle of your hot virtual sex date! And if you’re into the idea of semi-public play (or live with family/roommates), the volume of the toy might also be important to you.

When it comes to power, volume, and app connectivity, the best thing you can do is read honest reviews like the ones you’ll find here and on other sex blogs. Good sex toy bloggers test things robustly and call it as we see it when we give our verdict on a product.

Some app-controlled sex toys are more feature-rich than others. At the most basic level, app control will allow your partner to switch the toy on and off and scroll through a pre-set range of speeds and patterns. More advanced products have all kinds of fancy bonus features. For example, some toys allow you to draw your own vibration patterns, sync the vibrations to music, or even use your wearable toy as an alarm.

The Lovense Connect app — App: Lovense Connect

If you’re non-monogamous or do certain types of sex work, such as camming or phone sex, the option to give control to different people at the touch of a button might be important to you. Some toys only let you add one partner to their apps at a time. This means that you have to delete and re-add every time you’re playing with a different person.

The Most Powerful App-Controlled Toys

Two of the biggest players in app-controlled sex toys right now are Lovense and We-Vibe. These products are popular for a reason – they are, in the main, high quality, reliable, and powerful vibes. But they are far from the only options on the market. Other options include Lovehoney’s Desire range as well as products from brands like Kiiroo, Svakom, and Lelo. I strongly suspect that over the next few years, most of the major sex toy brands will start bringing out app-controlled toys, if they haven’t already.

From a personal perspective, I have found We-Vibe’s products to be the most consistently powerful app-controlled toys I’ve tried. Lovense products are also generally pretty powerful. Interestingly, however, I found their most iconic and popular product (the Lush) rather lacklustre in the power department.

Consider Privacy

I am far from a digital privacy expert. I do know that some people with far more knowledge than me have expressed legitimate concerns over the privacy aspect of app-connected sex toys. Ultimately, you must do your own research and decide your level of acceptable risk. If you’re concerned, read the privacy policy of the company you’re considering buying from. You can also check out reviews from sex tech experts to see what they have to say about the privacy aspect.

A Few Specific Recommendations

As you can see, it’s not easy to give a blanket answer to the question “what are the best vibrators for long-distance sex?” Ultimately, what’s best for you will depend on your personal preferences and the various factors I’ve discussed in this piece.

But from a personal perspective, here are a few of the app-controlled sex toys that I like the most:

Lovense Ferri, a fabulously powerful-yet-discreet knicker vibe.
Lovense Domi, a genuinely brilliant wand. You don’t see app-controlled wand vibrators very often, which makes this one even more appealing.
We-Vibe Nova 2, an app-controlled rabbit vibe with a fantastic clit-friendly design.
We-Vibe Chorus, designed for clitoral stimulation during penetrative sex but also ideal for hands-free long-distance play.
Hot Octopuss x Kiiroo Pulse Solo, a high-tech update to the innovative masturbator inspired by medical technology.

This post was sponsored by Designurbate, a tool that allows you to customize your Chaturbate profile and stand out from the crowd. All writing and views are, as always, my own.

[Toy Review] Lovense Ferri

Published on May 11, 2021March 4, 2022 by Amy1 Comment

I’ve had mixed experiences with Lovense. I finally got my hands on the Lush, which half the sex-positive internet seems to be obsessed with, and I didn’t get what the fuss was about. Then I tried the Domi and fell in love. So what of the Lovense Ferri, which arrived in my #MasturbationMay shipment from Lovehoney?

Lovense Ferri: Small But Mighty

The first thing that struck me about the Lovense Ferri is just how small it is. It is a miniature knicker vibrator (design to be worn inside your underwear) measuring just 3 inches in length.

The Ferri comes equipped with a magnetic clip which holds it in place and means you can use it with pretty much any pair of knickers you choose. Its curved shape sits comfortably against your body, and the underside is gently ridged for enhanced clitoral stimulation.

Pro tip: I discovered that the Ferri is also great for sitting on. Like, say, while writing erotica in your desk chair?

Lovense Ferri vibrating knickers vibe. — Palm of my hand for scale!

The Ferri is waterproof, USB rechargeable, and offers 180 minutes of run time for a two hour charge. It is Bluetooth compatible and can be app controlled, which we’ll get more into in a minute.

Best of all, the Ferri is powerful as hell. The first time I tried it, it got me off in less than five minutes. There’s a lot of motor packed into a small space and I am very, very here for it.

Can You Actually Use It in Public?

I’m gonna go with… maybe.

The Lovense Ferri is reasonably quiet for its level of power, but I certainly wouldn’t describe it as silent (or “whisper quiet,” ughhhh.) You could probably get away wih it in a loud or crowded area, but I wouldn’t risk it in a quieter space.

To App or Not to App?

You really do need the app to get the full functionality from the Lovense Ferri. The toy itself features a single-button interface, three pre-programmed speeds, and four patterns. Which is fine, but pretty limited for such an expensive toy. You also can’t really use it for its intended “wearable” purpose without the app, as it doesn’t come with a remote control.

Lovense’s app is genuinely excellent. It’s honestly at least twice as good as any other sex toy app I’ve tested. However, it’s a bit of a privacy issue because it insists on having access to various parts of your phone, so do with that information what you will.

The Lovense Remote app is free to download and compatible with iOS (9.0 and later,) and Android (4.3 and later). You can also get Mac and PC versions, if you prefer.

Screenshot of the Lovense app — Pictured: app homepage

Download the app, set up a free account, switch on your toy, and ensure your Bluetooth is connected. Then click the link symbol in the top right corner. My Lovense Ferri connected in a second and maintained a steady connection throughout use.

App Functions

Here are just a few of the fun things you can do with the Lovense Ferri and the Lovense Connect app:

Use the “Remote” control panel to change the vibration speed or use the “loop” button to create a repeating pattern.
Find pre-installed vibration patterns and your previously saved settings in “My Patterns.”
Schedule the toy to start vibrating at a specific time with the “Alarm” function. Fun if you want to wear it to sleep and then get vibed awake, maybe?
Make your toy respond to nearby sounds such as music and voices with the “Sound” setting. You could even watch porn and sync the toy with the sounds, if you want!
Vibe along to music stored on your device (or linked through a service like Spotify) with the “Music” function.

Lovense app screenshot — Pictured: “Sound” function

You can also connect any Lovense toy with cam sites like Chaturbate, MyFreeCams, and Manyvids. If you’re an online sex worker, this can be a fun way to interact with your fans. You can even programme your toy to respond to tips!

I haven’t tried this myself as I’m not a cam model, but reviews are generally very favourable!

Long Distance

Whether you’re in a long distance relationship or currently separated by the pandemic, you can use the “Long Distance” app function to give your partner control of your vibe.

There are two ways to do this. Your partner can download the app, create an account, and give you their username to connect. Alternatively, you can create a “control link” which can last from a few seconds up to an hour, and is single-use only.

Again, connectivity is strong and reliable and the toy is super responsive. Just make sure your internet connection is stable!

Verdict

Yes and yes and yes again! I can’t believe that something so small could be so brilliant, but this is an absolute winner.

The Lovense Ferri retails for £129.99 ($139.99 US) and, as long as you’re happy using a smartphone app, it’s worth every penny.

Thanks to Lovehoney for sending me this product to review. All opinions mine. Affiliate links appear in this post. Don’t forget to use code coffkink10 at checkout to get 10% off everything at Lovehoney!

A woman in black lingerie smiling and sexting a partner

A Love Letter to the Art of Sexting

Published on March 29, 2021March 29, 2021 by Amy3 Comments

I don’t know if anyone has done any actual studies on this, but my totally unscientific hypothesis is that people have been sexting more than ever over the last year. With much of the world forced into lockdown (fuck you COVID), we’ve had to resort to virtual methods for everything from our work to our friendships… so why not our sex lives, too?

I’ve said before that I believe that sexting can, in and of itself, constitute a real sexual relationship. It’s one of the first ways that Mr CK and I connected before we ever had physical sex. And it’s certainly one of the ways that The Artist and I have kept our connection alive over the last year of not being able to see each other (again: fuck you, COVID.)

It probably isn’t a surprise to anyone that I am a very wordy person. I am a writer, after all. Words of affirmation are my primary love language. And I fucking love sexting.

I won’t say that it’s as good as in-person sex. It’s not. Nothing can beat the touch and smell and warmth of a lover’s body against mine. But when we can’t have that, for reasons of distance or illness or the plague, it’s the next best thing.

There’s an art to good sexting, though. I’m lucky in that my current partners are amazing at it. But I’ve certainly had more than my fair share of bad sexting in the past. The worst sexting tends to be overly dick-focused, one-sided, and

No, good sexting isn’t as simple as typing a bunch of increasingly flowery euphemisms. Like good physical sex, it’s a conversation, a dance, a push and pull between two (or more) people who are deeply attuned to one another. It involves listening and responding. A good sexter can make me drip without ever touching me. A truly great sexter can make me submit with just words.

At its best, sexting can be a way to explore fantasies and even discover new ones. Many times over the years, a partner has said something to me in a sexting session that has left me like “well I didn’t know I was into that, but oof!” Sexting can build a connection, maintain it over distance and time, and be a deeply intimate bonding experience.

Thanks to technology, virtual sexual connections are easier than ever. We no longer have to stick with just words on a screen (though that can be fun, too.) We can now trade pictures, video chat, and even control a lover’s sex toy over tens or hundreds or thousands of miles.

It’s been hard to be a slut over the last year. So many of the things I love, from regular dates with my secondary partner to outings to sex clubs and dungeons, have been impossible.

(Yes, I know perspective is important and not being able to slut it up on the regular is a very trivial concern compared to *waves wildly at everything.* I’m still allowed to miss it.)

For many of us slutty types, sexting has been one of the things that has kept us at least somewhat connected with our slutty selves. It’s a reminder that the world is still out there, and brimming with sexy adventures waiting to be had when it’s safe to do so. And I think that’s something to celebrate.

“Give me words that make my mind curl before my toes.”
– Rachel Wolchin

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[Toy Review] Lovense Domi 2

Published on October 24, 2020March 4, 2022 by AmyLeave a comment

You might remember that I recently reviewed the Lovense Lush and was generally underwhelmed. Well, I was surprised (and impressed) when the good folks at Lovense reached out and suggested a different product I might get on better with, and offered to send me one to try. And that’s how I’m bringing you today’s review of the Lovense Domi 2.

Lovense Domi: Closer Look

The Lovense Domi 2 is an app-controlled mini wand vibrator. It is 9.5″ in total length, with a plastic body and a head coated in body-safe silicone. The Domi 2 is black with a silver band towards the top of the handle:

The Domi 2 is splashproof but not fully waterproof. It is USB rechargeable. A full charge takes around 2 hours and I got a respectable 2 hours of battery life out of it.

App functionality

The app functionality offered by Lovense’s toys is truly next level. I have never tested a sex toy smartphone app that was even half this good.

The Lovense Remote app is free to download and compatible with iOS (9.0 and later,) and Android (4.3 and later). There’s also a Mac version, and a Windows PC version. You’ll need a special Lovense USB Bluetooth Adaptor if you want to use the latter.

When I reviewed the Lush, I noted that it was clearly a toy designed with app-first usage in mind. Without the app, its user interface is rather limited. However, the same cannot be said for the Domi 2. While the Lush is a toy that really requires the app, the Domi 2 is a great toy in and of itself and the app just adds some extra bonus features. That’s how it should be, in my mind. Not everyone wants to hold their phone while they’re wanking!

When you download the app, you’ll need to set up a free account, switch on your Bluetooth, and click the link symbol in the top right corner to connect your toy. The Domi 2 connected in less than two seconds and maintained a steady and reliable connection throughout use.

Once you’ve connected your toy, you’ll find several fun options:

The “Remote” control panel allows you to change the vibration speed with a simple finger swipe. You can also use the “loop” feature to create your own patterns.
In “My Patterns,” you can find pre-installed vibration patterns. This is also where you can create and save your own custom settings.
“Alarm” lets you schedule the toy to start vibrating at a specific time. This has significantly fewer applications with a toy like a wand as opposed to an insertable, but I’m sure some creative kinksters could come up with a fun way to use it.
“Sound” makes the toy respond to nearby sounds such as talking, music, and so on. Fair warning: it’s very very responsive. On the higher sensitivity setting, it was picking up the faint sound of my partner talking on the phone at the other end of the house. So you might want to turn the sensitivity level down a bit. I’m really into the D/s potential of this function. A Dom making my vibe react with just their voice? Yes please! Another fun idea: watch porn and sync the toy with the sounds!
“Music” syncs the vibrations along with music files uploaded to your device, or linked through a streaming service like Spotify.

Without the app, the Domi 2 features a simple 3-button interface to change the speeds and flick through the pre-installed patterns.

Sex and social distancing

Not able to get it on in person right now? Never fear, Lovense has got you covered…

Play from anywhere in the world

In a Long Distance relationship or currently apart? Use the “Long Distance” tab in your Lovense app to hand over control of your toy to your partner. They’ll also need a free account and you’ll need to add each other with your usernames.

Connectivity is fast, reliable, and holds steady as long as you are both in an area with a good internet connection.

If your partner doesn’t want to set up an account or you’re playing with a new person and just trying things out, you can create a limited-time “control link” and send it to them. You can specify the length of time it lasts – a few seconds up to an hour. Every link is one use only and will expire if not used within 30 minutes. You can end the session any time – just press “back” on the app.

Camsite capability

All Lovense toys feature a unique connectivity with cam sites. As far as I know, this is a first. If you perform on sites such as Chaturbate, MyFreeCams, Manyvids, or many others, you can hook up your Domi 2 and create tip-based responses. This lets your fans “control” your vibe based on the tips they send you.

Got a particularly generous tipper? If you wish, you can hand over control to them using the control link function we discussed a moment ago.

As I’m not a cam performer, I have not tested this functionality myself. However, I have watched clips of performers using it (the things I do for research!) Reviews are generally very positive.

Knock-your-socks-off power

Where the Lush fell down is where the Lovense Domi 2 really comes into its own. I cannot believe the power this thing is packing! It’s not only extraordinarily powerful, it’s also rumbly as fuck. I might go as far as to say this is the rumbliest toy I’ve ever used.

It doesn’t have quite the pure power of a mains powered wand (though honestly it’s not far off.) But as far as rumbles go? This is incredible.

My Domi 2 has been within easy reach of my bed ever since I got it. When I want a toy that gives me deep, satisfying clitoral orgasms in record time, this is the one. When I’m already very turned on, I don’t even need to hold it directly against my clit. Pressing it into the side of my vulva or top of my pubic mound is enough.

Final thoughts

I have seriously no idea how the Domi 2 only has 3.5 stars out of 5 on Lovehoney. This thing is FUCKING INCREDIBLE. (I also don’t know why everyone raves about the Lush so much when the Domi is very clearly the superior toy.)

The Lovense Domi 2 is on the pricey side, retailing for £139.99 at Lovehoney ($139.99 US). Is it worth it? My verdict: fuck yes.

Thanks to Lovense for sending me this product to review! All views, as always, are my own. Affiliate links appear within this post.

[Toy Review] Lovense Lush 2

Published on September 20, 2020March 4, 2022 by AmyLeave a comment

Update 04/03/22: the Lush 2 has been discontinued. Links on this page now point to the Lush 3.

To say I was excited to get my hands on the Lovense Lush 2 would be an understatement. Lovense toys have a reputation that precedes them, and I’ve never been able to get one for review before.

So let’s dive in and find out what I thought of the Lovense Lush 2, shall we?

Lovense Lush 2

The Lush 2 by Lovense is a rechargeable, app-controlled “love egg” style vibrator.

It is 8 inches long, of which about 3.5 inches are intertable. The rest is a long, flexible tail. The Lush 2 is made of body-safe silicone in a ridiculously bright, obnoxious shade of pink.

It’s described as a “love egg” vibrator, but the main body isn’t really quite egg shaped. Instead it has a bulge on one side, which I guess is supposed to hit the G-spot. The body and tail shape kinda makes me think of a sperm! Here’s what it looks like:

On my body, the main head of the toy really isn’t long enough or the right shape to hit my G-spot with any degree of precision. Given this and the that I’m not a big fan of internal vibrations, I was more inclined to use it as a clitoral vibrator.

This toy is fully waterproof, and rechargeable via a USB cable (you get around 2.5 hours of use for a 2 hour charge).

App Functionality

Perhaps the biggest appeal of Lovense’s toys is their superior app functionality. Having thoroughly tested my Lush 2 with the Lovense app, I can confirm that it’s by far the best sex toy remote control app I’ve ever used.

This is absolutely a toy that was designed with app-first usage in mind. Without the app, the interface is a single button (located on the end of the tail) that you use to scroll one way through the three constant vibration speeds and four inbuilt patterns.

The Lovense Remote app is free to download and compatible with iOS 9.0 and later, and Android 4.3 and later. There’s also a Mac version, and a Windows PC version (though you need a special Lovense USB Bluetooth Adaptor for the latter).

You’ll need to set up a free account to use the app, which takes a couple of minutes. Then you switch on your Bluetooth and click the link symbol in the top right corner to connect your toy. Unlike other app-based toys I’ve used, my Lush 2 connected in a couple of seconds. The connection is steady and reliable.

Once you’ve connected your toy to the app, you have a number of different options. You can use the “Remote” control panel to change the vibration speed with the swipe of a finger, or create your own repeating pattern using the “loop” feature. In “My Patterns,” you can find the pre-installed vibration patterns and also create and save your own.

The other cool app options include:

“Alarm”, wherein you can schedule the toy to start vibrating at a specific time. (Yes I tested it, and yes it works). I mean, the idea of waking up with this thing buzzing away inside me is not my idea of fun, but some people might enjoy it!
“Sound” makes the toy sound-responsive. You can talk at it, play music, or even just tap gently on something nearby and the Lush 2 will vibrate in time with it. It’s EXTREMELY responsive – at the top sensitivity setting, it was picking up traffic noise from the end of my street and responding to that. So you might want to turn the sensitivity level down a bit. This function has some particularly interesting D/s potential. I have to admit the idea of a Dom making my vibe react with just their voice is hot as fuck. You could even watch porn and sync the toy with the performers’ sounds!
“Music”, which allows you to sync the vibrations along with music. You can use music files uploaded to your device, or link your app with streaming services like Spotify.

Long-distance functions

You can hand over control of your Lovense Lush 2 to your partner using the “Long Distance” tab. For privacy reasons, you can’t search by email address, so your partner will need to set up an account so you can add one another by username.

Again, the connectivity is quick and simple, and remains steady as long as you both have Bluetooth and a stable internet connection.

You can also create a limited-time “control link”, allowing you to hand over control for a specified amount of time from a few seconds up to 60 minutes. Every link is unique, for one-time use only, and expires if not used within 30 minutes. You can end the session any time by simply pressing “back” on the app.

Lovense provides a useful how-to guide to help you set up.

Cam site connection

The Lovense Lush 2 boasts the ability to connect with cam sites, which I haven’t seen from any other sex toy companies. Cam models and performers can sync any Lush toy with numerous cam sites including Chaturbate, Manyvids, MyFreeCams, and more. You can then create tip-based responses, allowing your fans to “control” your vibe by tipping you.

Of course, it’s also possible to hand over control to your high tippers using the control link function mentioned above.

As I’m not a cam performer, I have not tested this functionality myself. However, I have seen clips of sex workers using it, and read reviews that are generally very positive about it.

Power

Sadly, what the Lovense Lush 2 has in app functionality and innovation, it lacks in power. As soon as I switched it on in my hand, I was unimpressed. I hoped it might feel better once I was warmed up and using it on my genitals, but alas I remained underwhelmed.

The Lovense Lush 2’s vibrations aren’t exactly terrible, but they’re just… not good. They’re fairly buzzy and, even on the highest setting, nowhere near powerful enough to justify this toy’s price tag.

I’m sad to report that this toy didn’t get me off. After multiple attempts, I had to reach for a trusty wand to finish the job.

Final thoughts

I can only recommend this toy if you’re after app functionality or long-distance capability and if you don’t need very powerful vibrations. The Lovense Lush 2’s app is great, and the tip connectivity option for adult performers is genuinely cool and unique.

Unfortunately, its power level really lets the Lovense Lush 2 down. For a vibrator that costs £139.99 ($139.99 US), a nifty app isn’t enough. I expect it to actually be powerful to get me off. Which, frankly, is a low bar for a supposedly high-end toy to meet.

Without the cool app features, all you have is an overpriced vibrator with a mediocre motor.

Thanks to Lovehoney for sending me the Lovense Lush 2 to review! All opinions are, as always, my own. Buying through my affiliate links sends a small commission my way at no extra cost to you.

Header image for a post on the best virtual date ideas

Five of the Best Virtual Date Ideas

Published on July 25, 2020March 4, 2022 by AmyLeave a comment

I resisted writing this post for some time, because it felt too close to the whole “moving our entire lives online during COVID” theme I was trying to avoid. However, there are many reasons beyond lockdown restrictions and public health fears why people might need – or even want – to go on digital dates. Long-distance relationships, limited funds, and illness are just a few of the ones I can think of.

So I wanted to share five of my best virtual date ideas with you guys today. I hope you find something here to inspire you. And, of course, you’re always welcome to share your own in the comments.

Movie night

You can use an app like Watch Party to share a virtual movie night, but it’s just as easy to sync up and hit “play” on your Netflix or DVD player at the same time… or even both watch the same movie as it’s being shown on TV.

You can video, voice or text-chat while you watch, if you wish, or just call each other afterwards and talk about the movie.

Get some popcorn and dim the lights for the full cinematic experience!

Looking for movie recs? Check out my friend Livvy’s blog, Sex Love and Videotape, for some inspiration!

Virtual museum tour

Did you know that museums all over the world have virtual tours of their galleries and exhibitions available online? Meet online to explore a virtual museum and video or voice-chat while you wander around.

The Albertina in Vienna, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the London’s Natural History Museum are just some of the world-renowned museums offering online tours right now.

Night at the theatre

Prior to the last few months, many of us could only access live theatre if we could get to a major city and afford the exhorbitant ticket prices (or get to one of the handful of cinemas that showed live-streamed versions.) Since March, however, tonnes of productions have gone online.

Pick a show, sync up, and hit play. Bonuses of the virtual theatre: you can wear your pyjamas if you want to, your bed is probably comfier than an actual theatre seat, and the drinks are cheaper!

Timeout‘s theatre sections have listings that refresh every couple of days!

Cheese and wine party

If you’re feeling fancy, why not share an online cheese and wine tasting? Get some interesting cheeses on your next trip to the supermarket (or order them online.) Pick up a bottle of wine (or two.) Enjoy them and compare notes on your favourites while you video-chat.

To take it up a notch, dress in your most over-the-top fabulous outfits.

Hot virtual sex date

Of course I wouldn’t be me without saying that some hot online sex is one of the best virtual date ideas of all!

Set aside the time to completely focus on each other, and get lost in some deliciously hot phone sex, sexting, or cyber-sex. An app-controlled sex toy can put your pleasure in your partner’s hands, no matter where in the world they are.

This post contains affiliate links. All views, as always, are my own.

Header image for a review of the We-Vibe Nova 2 rabbit vibrator

[Toy Review] We-Vibe Nova 2

Published on July 19, 2020March 18, 2022 by Amy3 Comments

Dual-stimulation sex toys are very, very hard to get right. Given all the beautiful variety of bodies and vulvas, it’s not surprising that most dual-stim toys leave a lot of users feeling disappointed. Add to that the ever-present shitty motors, weak vibrations, and annoyingly placed controls, and you can see why I rarely expect much from these products. So keep this context in mind as I tell you about the We-Vibe Nova 2 and why it blew me away.

A Nova-l Invention

The We-Vibe Nova 2 is an updated, upgraded version of the classic and much-loved Nova. It is a rabbit style dual-stimulation vibrator featuring an adjustable internal arm, a flexible external arm for clitoral stimulation, and two separate motors:

The Nova 2 is made from body-safe matte silicone in a vibrant dark pink colour (make it in other colours please!) I always recommend using lube, especially with insertable toys. Silicone toys pair best with water-based lubes (I’m currently really liking Sliquid Organics.)

The Nova 2 is also fully waterproof, rechargeable (giving about 2 hours’ play for a 90 minute charge,) and comes with a white silky storage bag included. It is 8.5 inches in total length, of which 5 are insertable. The insertable arm is 1.35 inches in diameter at the widest point, making it a fairly slimline toy.

So how is the We-Vibe Nova 2 different from other rabbit vibrators?

The beauty of the We-Vibe Nova 2 is in its adjustability. The insertable arm is on a hinge, allowing you to bend it to the angle that best fits your body. This is brilliant because everyone’s vagina is different. The exact location of the G-spot, the intensity of pressure we prefer, and the depth of penetration that is pleasurable is different for everyone. Just reposition it once and it’ll stay put until you move it again.

The clitoral stimulator is flexible and curved in a way that can best be described as resembling a finger doing a “come hither” motion. The advertising copy boasts that this design ensures “constant contact with your clitoris”. I am pleased to report that it really did work that way for me!

I can’t overstate how much of a game-changer this design for the external arm is. One of the biggest problems people report with rabbit vibrators is being unable to thrust with them or adjust the angle of the insertable arm without losing clitoral contact. This innovative product has finally cracked that problem.

So about those motors?

If there’s one thing I have come to expect from We-Vibe products, it’s decent motors. From the bullet that redefined bullet vibes to that brilliant wand, they have not disappointed yet.

In that respect, the Nova 2 lived up to expectations. Both motors pack a punch in the power department. The internal arm is buzzier than the external, but that suits me just fine – I don’t really like vibrations inside (or only very gentle ones) but strong, rumbly clit stimulation is where it’s at.

Controls and app functionality

Unlike some app-controlled toys I’ve tried, the Nova’s app function seems more like a nice add-on than an absolute necessity. The controls on the toy itself are adequate. Using the 5 buttons you can turn the speed up or down, switch through patterns (BOTH WAYS, praise the sex toy gods,) and control which arm is in use. You can use either motor separately or both together.

The buttons of the We-Vibe Nova 2 rabbit vibrator

What you can’t do using the buttons on the toy is change the speed of the two motors independently while they’re both switched on. They either have to be running on the same speed, or one has to be off. If you want to have more precise control, you do need to use the app.

The We-Connect app is free from the Android and iOS app stores and takes about two minutes to set up. You sync the app to the Nova via Bluetooth. Once you’re connected, you can also give the control to a partner – from anywhere in the world – via the app. The responsiveness lags a little at times, especially if one of you has an unstable internet connection, but is otherwise functional.

When the toy is paired, you’ll see a split screen depicting two wave patterns, one representing each motor. You can change the intensity of one or both with a swipe of your finger. In the next tab, you can play with different combinations of patterns and settings to find one that works for you… or even create your own!

Final thoughts

The We-Vibe Nova 2 is a rare find: a dual-stimulation toy that I feel confident recommending because it is likely to suit a wider range of bodies! The strong motors and unique posable design make the Nova 2 a winner in my eyes.

The Nova 2 retails for £119.99 full price, but is currently on an introductory special of £89.00 at Lovehoney. You can also find it at Shevibe.

Thank you to Wow Tech for sending me the We-Vibe Nova 2 to review. Affiliate links appear in this post. All views, as always, are my own unbiased opinions.

Header image for a review of the We-Vibe Chorus

[Toy Review] We-Vibe Chorus

Published on February 8, 2020March 18, 2022 by Amy1 Comment

There are a number of buzzwords and phrases, frequently used to describe sex toys, of which I am highly sceptical. One of these is “for couples”. Another is “hands free”. The We-Vibe Chorus claims to be both of these things. However, my experiences with We-Vibe over the years have been almost universally positive, so with my hopeful-but-ready-to-be-disappointed face firmly in place, I set out to test the new We-Vibe Chorus for you guys.

First impressions

The We-Vibe Chorus comes attractively packaged in a sturdy box. Inside you’ll find the toy and remote, a USB charging cable, and a dock that functions as both travel case and charging station. There’s also a little instruction booklet and a free packet of water-based personal lubricant. (Second ingredient: glycerin. Ughhhhh.)

The We-Vibe Chorus comes in three colours, and mine is “Cosmic Pink.” It is OBNOXIOUSLY pink. (I asked for the purple, but I guess everyone probably asked for the purple. Ah well.) It’s sort of shiny-sparkly

The matte silicone is squishy and soft to the touch.

Shiny new tech! (Or: How is the Chorus different to previous We-Vibe models?)

The Chorus is the latest iteration of We-Vibe’s signature “wearable” vibrators, a line which also includes the Match, Unite and Sync. But how is it different?

The most obvious upgrade, when we compare the Chorus to the Sync (its most recent predecessor,) is the introduction of the squeeze remote. The tighter you squeeze the remote, the more intense the vibration gets – and vice versa! This is a genuinely innovative touch that I haven’t seen anywhere else. You can turn squeeze control on and off with the small button at the top of your remote. When squeeze control is on, you use the +/- buttons to set the base intensity – that is, the lowest setting it will default to if you stop squeezing. We’ll get more into fun ways to play with this in a minute.

There’s also new touch-sense tech, which responds to your movements against the sensor, changing the intensity of the vibrations to match depending on which setting you’ve selected. You can turn touch-sense off through the We-Connect app, if you want to. I had a play with this function but the responsiveness was mixed. Overall, I found it too unpredictable to be pleasurable, and quickly turned it off. If I’m going to use touch-sensitive tech, I want to to actually be reliable. The We-Vibe Wand achieved this much better than the Chorus does.

The WeVibe Chorus and remote on the docking stand

Another significant upgrade to this model is that it is adjustable in two places. Not only can you adjust the distance between the two arms, you can also alter the angle of the internal arm for a more comfortable and stimulating fit. I can’t overestimate how appreciated this is! Bodies come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, and one size will never fit all. I find getting poked in the vaginal walls off-putting and the opposite of erotic, frankly, so being able to adjust the Chorus to actually sit comfortably in my body was a game-changer.

Finally, the Chorus is the first We-Vibe product to use a mix of AnkorLink and Bluetooth technology to connect it to the We-Connect app. The difference here was EXTREMELY noticeable – the connection was much more stable and the responses much more consistent.

In conclusion, the Chorus might superficially resemble We-Vibe’s previous offerings, but you get so much more bang for your buck.

The Chorus is waterproof (though the remote is only splash-proof). I got just shy of 90 minutes of playtime from a full (2 hour) charge.

Not just for couples!

Again, I find the notion of “toys for couples” annoying. Anything can be a couples’ sex toy if you use it with a partner! And many so-called couples’ toys can be used just as well for solo fun. The phrase “toys for couples” has come to be near-synonymous with “toys you use while having penis-in-vagina intercourse”. But lots of couples don’t have sex like that, or only have sex like that sometime… and of course, not all couples are cis-hetero! I vote we change the common terminology to “toys for PIV” instead of “toys for couples”.

Anyway, I digress. The We-Vibe Chorus is a great option if you’re looking for a toy to wear during PIV sex. The slender and adjustable internal arm makes for a comfortable fit regardless of your bodies’ shapes and sizes, and the external arm provides powerful clitoral stimulation – which 70 – 90% (depending on which study you believe) of vulva-owners need to reach orgasm.

But it’s so much more than that! I actually really like this style of toy for solo masturbation. Though I do need to use my hands (see below,) holding it against my body requires almost no strength or energy. It’s easy to use a dildo with it at the same time if I’m after more internal stimulation.

Other fun ways to play

Thanks to its innovative technology and design, this toy has so much potential beyond the obvious “wear during PIV” application.

If you’re into power-exchange games, you could give your partner the remote and have them use the squeeze function or buttons to control when and how you get pleasure. Or the person who is wearing the vibrator could be tied up with the remote in their hand, and their Dominant partner could instruct them on when to squeeze tightly (getting more stimulation) and when to release (getting less).

I really like playing edging games with this toy – squeezing tightly until I’m close to coming, then releasing the control to back off again.

Due to the improved app connection and functionality, this toy is also ideal for long-distance play. Wherever you are in the world, simply hook your toy up to your partner’s phone via the app, and you can give them control of your toy while you sext or exchange smutty pictures.

Not really hands-free

As ever, bodies are different and your mileage may vary. But I do not agree that the We-Vibe Chorus is a hands-free toy. However I adjusted it, I could not get it to stay firmly in place. Every time I moved slightly or changed the intensity of the vibrations, it would shift and move away from my clit. I ended up using one hand to hold it in place and the other hand to operate the remote.

Not a huge problem in the grand scheme of things, but if you’re looking for a truly hands-free experience you’ll want to be aware of this. (Also: if you find a sex toy that is actually, effectively, 100% hands-free, please let me know. This is up there with unicorns on the list of “things I am convinced do not exist.”)

Worth noting: the lovely Phallophile Reviews suggests that wearing tight knickers (such as Spanx) helps this toy stay in place. So that’s something to try!

Power play

Importantly, how does the We-Vibe Chorus stack up in terms of power? Frankly, if I’m going to spend close to £200 on a toy, it’d better knock my socks off, power-wise!

We-Vibe have long been known for using excellent, powerful motors in their toys and the Chorus is no exception. For its small size, it packs a punch. The vibrations are strong, rumbly and – in case this is important to you – surprisingly quiet.

The gentle, lay-on contour of this toy, plus the rumbly vibes, feel fucking phenomenal against my clit.

Final thoughts

If you’re looking for the ultimate “wear during PIV” toy, this is it. I’m seriously impressed with the Chorus! But I also really love this toy for solo play. It’s on the pricier end at £179.99 ($199 US) but you get so many nifty features for your money. I wholeheartedly recommend it.

A gem. We-Vibe have done it yet again.

Thanks to Lovehoney for sending me the Chorus in exchange for an honest review. We-Vibe’s other new release, the Wand, will feature in my Valentine’s Day Gift Guide, coming out tomorrow, so stay tuned for that! Header image is by Lovehoney and used with permission, all other images by me. Affiliate links appear in this post.

A train station platform, for a post about doing kink long distance

Kink from a Distance: How We Did It Before We Lived Together

Published on October 15, 2017March 2, 2022 by AmyLeave a comment

Mr CK and I were lucky: we were only in a long-distance relationship for just under a year. We were also close enough to make seeing each other at weekends possible. As long-distance love goes, we definitely had it on the easier end of the spectrum. That said, there were times when it was really difficult, and the constant traveling was exhausting and expensive. Moving in together was a challenge in its own right, but neither of us missed the sight of Megabuses or train station terminals or the M1.

One of the challenges of living apart, especially in the early days, was maintaining a sexual connection when we couldn’t just fuck each other’s brains out whenenver we wanted. We’re not a 24/7 D/s couple, but in reality he’s usually the Dominant and I’m usually the submissive.

This post is part of my #KinkMonth series, inspired by Kayla Lords’ 30 Days of D/s, where today’s prompt is all about maintaining D/s when you’re apart. Today I want to share with you a few of the tricks we used to keep our sexual connection sizzling and have kinky fun when we weren’t in the same place.

Sexting

I love sexting. I love the anticipation when the other person is typing. Tap-tap-tapping out my fantasies, planting filth into their mind with my words. The delicious collaboration of building a sexy story together. The vulnerability, tempered with the distance created by this medium of communication. I especially love the way I can save the words, read them back as many times as I want and, let’s be real, wank to them furiously later.

We sexted at least once a week, and sometimes a lot more, in our first few months together.

Skype/phone sex

Skype and phone sex is a bit like sexting, only more immediate, more visceral. You can hear the other person’s words, hear their voice catch when you say something that really gets them, hear them gasp as they touch themselves.

We fell in love through late-night calls and Skype calls and illicit phone sex. Later, when we were officially together, we used it to maintain our connection across the miles. Hearing his voice in my ear wasn’t as good as being able to reach out and touch him, of course. But it was a damn good substitute.

Orders and accountability

In the long-distance days, I’d often get orders from Mr as I was going about my day. He’d text me, next time you go to the bathroom, take a sexy picture or go and edge three times. I would report back, tell him I’d done my task, and hear what a good girl I was. Sometimes, I’d need to send him a picture as proof. Obeying his orders and having a sense of accountability, even from a distance, kept me both red-hot for him and feeling the submissive feels I craved.

Planning and negotiation

One of the things that was surprisingly effective in keeping our kinky connection going was using the time we were apart to plan and negotiate for future scenes. Talking limits, boundaries, ideas, possibilities and future plans for all the pervy sex we were going to have helped to build anticipation and excitement. So by the time we actually came to do the things, we were both amped up and raring to go. Efficient and sexy!

What do you do to keep the sexy, kinky fun going in your long-distance relationship?

Kinky item of the day: a long-range, app-controlled vibrator like the Lovense Lush. Just hand the controls over to your lover via the app. Then they can have their way with you whether they’re right beside you or on the other side of the world.