11/06/2019
The vaping landscape is constantly evolving, with manufacturers striving to deliver the ultimate flavour experience coupled with user-friendly designs. Among the many rebuildable atomisers available, the OBS Engine MTL RTA has carved out a significant niche for itself, particularly among vapers who appreciate a tight, satisfying mouth-to-lung (MTL) draw and exceptional flavour reproduction. This article delves deep into what makes the OBS Engine MTL RTA a standout choice, exploring its design, functionality, build process, and overall performance.
Understanding the OBS Engine MTL RTA
OBS, a well-respected name in the vaping industry, has a history of producing innovative and high-quality atomisers. The Engine MTL RTA is a testament to their commitment to excellence, specifically engineered for vapers who prefer the restricted airflow characteristic of traditional cigarettes, often referred to as mouth-to-lung vaping. This style of vaping prioritises flavour and a throat hit over dense clouds of vapour.
Key Features and Design
The OBS Engine MTL RTA boasts a number of features that contribute to its popularity and effectiveness:
- Top-Fill Design: Refilling is a breeze thanks to the convenient top-fill mechanism. Simply unscrew the top cap, and you have easy access to the e-liquid reservoir, minimising the chance of leaks and spills.
- Adjustable Airflow Control: The base of the RTA features an adjustable airflow ring. This allows vapers to fine-tune the tightness of their draw, from a very restricted MTL to a slightly looser, restricted direct lung (RDL) experience.
- Leak-Proof Construction: OBS has designed the Engine MTL RTA with meticulous attention to preventing leaks. The top-fill system and the well-sealed chamber contribute to a clean vaping experience.
- Single Coil Build Deck: The build deck is designed for a single coil setup, making it relatively straightforward for both beginner and experienced builders. The posts are well-spaced, and there are ample wicking channels.
- 2ml E-Liquid Capacity: In compliance with TPD regulations in many regions, the RTA typically comes with a 2ml e-liquid capacity. However, extension kits may be available for those who prefer a larger capacity.
- Premium Materials: Constructed from high-quality stainless steel and durable glass, the RTA is built to last and withstand the rigours of daily use.
- Precise Flavour Delivery: The chamber design and airflow system are optimised to concentrate flavour, delivering a rich and nuanced vaping experience that truly showcases the taste of your e-liquids.
The Build Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Building a coil for the OBS Engine MTL RTA is a rewarding process that allows you to customise your vaping experience. Here’s a simplified guide:
1. Coil Preparation
You'll need a pre-made MTL coil or the materials to build your own. For MTL, coils with a resistance between 0.8 ohm and 1.5 ohm are generally recommended, depending on your preferred wattage and e-liquid. Ensure the coil is clean and free from any manufacturing residue.
2. Installing the Coil
Unscrew the build deck from the atomiser base. Unscrew the two posts on the deck. Place the coil legs into the post holes, ensuring the coil is centred over the airflow hole. Re-screw the posts to secure the coil. Gently strum the coil with tweezers to ensure it's not touching the build deck or chimney. Fire the coil at a low wattage (e.g., 10-15W) and strum it until it glows evenly from the centre outwards.
3. Wicking the Coil
Cut your cotton wicking material to size, ensuring it's long enough to reach the bottom of the e-liquid channels. Gently thread the cotton through the coil. Trim the excess cotton so that it sits neatly in the e-liquid channels without being too tightly packed. Over-stuffing can lead to dry hits, while under-stuffing can cause flooding.
4. Assembling the RTA
Carefully place the build deck back onto the atomiser base. Ensure the wicking ports are aligned with the e-liquid channels. Screw the chimney and top cap back on. Fill the tank with your chosen e-liquid through the top-fill port, ensuring the cotton wicks are saturated. Allow the cotton to soak for a few minutes before your first vape.
Performance and Vaping Experience
The OBS Engine MTL RTA truly shines when it comes to flavour. The restricted airflow and the well-designed chamber work in synergy to deliver a rich and intense flavour profile. This makes it an excellent choice for vapers who enjoy complex tobacco blends, fruity concoctions, or creamy desserts, as it allows the subtle notes of each e-liquid to be fully appreciated.
The MTL draw is smooth and satisfying, closely mimicking the experience of smoking a traditional cigarette. The adjustable airflow provides a good degree of customisation, allowing users to dial in their preferred level of restriction. The vapour production, while not cloud-centric, is ample for an MTL device and is dense enough to provide a pleasing throat hit.
Pros and Cons
Like any vaping device, the OBS Engine MTL RTA has its strengths and weaknesses:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent flavour reproduction | 2ml capacity might be small for some users |
| Smooth and adjustable MTL draw | Single coil only |
| Easy top-fill design | May require some practice for beginner builders |
| Leak-resistant construction | |
| Durable build quality |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best wattage for the OBS Engine MTL RTA?
The optimal wattage will depend on your coil resistance and personal preference. However, for most MTL builds in the 0.8 to 1.5 ohm range, a wattage between 12W and 20W is generally recommended. It's always best to start low and gradually increase the wattage until you find your sweet spot.
What type of e-liquids are best for MTL vaping?
High-VG e-liquids (70% VG or higher) are typically better suited for sub-ohm, direct-to-lung vaping. For MTL devices like the OBS Engine MTL RTA, e-liquids with a higher PG ratio (50% PG/50% VG or 60% PG/40% VG) are generally preferred. These provide a better throat hit and flavour intensity. Nicotine salt e-liquids are also a popular choice for MTL vaping due to their smooth delivery of nicotine.
How do I prevent dry hits?
Dry hits are usually caused by insufficient wicking or vaping at too high a wattage. Ensure your cotton is properly wicked, allowing e-liquid to flow freely to the coil. Make sure the cotton isn't too tightly packed in the coil or the wicking channels. Also, ensure your e-liquid saturation is adequate before firing.
Conclusion
The OBS Engine MTL RTA is a superb choice for vapers seeking a dedicated mouth-to-lung experience that prioritises flavour and ease of use. Its thoughtful design, leak-resistant features, and exceptional flavour delivery make it a worthy addition to any vaper's collection, particularly for those who appreciate the nuances of their e-liquids. Whether you're a seasoned rebuildable atomiser enthusiast or looking to venture into building your own coils for a superior MTL vape, the OBS Engine MTL RTA is a device that consistently delivers satisfaction.
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