Chemical Tastes

[Grappler]

I've been an avid hookah smoker for three years or so now but I had broken my base early last year and had not gotten around to buying a new one until a couple weeks ago. My sessions used to be fantastic and the flavors were great, but ever since I bought my new vase and I got back into smoking, I have noticed an odd taste every time I smoke. I use two quick light 3 kings, heavy duty foil, and starbuzz tobacco. It does not feel harsh, so I dont think that its my heat management, but rather a distinct chemical taste. It has been making me nauseous every time I try to smoke it, and I usually have to cut the session short. Would switching to natural coals help this problem? I really don't want to have to quit smoking my hookah! Thanks in advance.

[joytron]

3 kings and starbuzz, a recipe for chemical tastes.


Are your coals fully lit before you place them on the bowl, and what flavors of starbuzz is it?

[Grappler]

[quote name='joytron' date='14 July 2010 - 06:51 PM' timestamp='1279158719' post='475077']
3 kings and starbuzz, a recipe for chemical tastes.


Are your coals fully lit before you place them on the bowl, and what flavors of starbuzz is it?
[/quote]

I've tried Pomberry and Exotic Passion Kiss. And they are no longer sparking when I place them on the bowl

[Arcane]

since you said you had good sessions before, then introduced a new vase....i'm guessing there's an issue with the vase...

did you wash it really well before using it?

[Grappler]

[quote name='Arcane' date='14 July 2010 - 07:03 PM' timestamp='1279159411' post='475082']
since you said you had good sessions before, then introduced a new vase....i'm guessing there's an issue with the vase...

did you wash it really well before using it?
[/quote]

I have washed it a few times now. Its very frustrating considering I just want a good session and both hookah lounges near me were closed down (they evidently were contributing to terrorists)

[ryno]

[quote name='Grappler' date='14 July 2010 - 09:57 PM' timestamp='1279159028' post='475078']
[quote name='joytron' date='14 July 2010 - 06:51 PM' timestamp='1279158719' post='475077']
3 kings and starbuzz, a recipe for chemical tastes.


Are your coals fully lit before you place them on the bowl, and what flavors of starbuzz is it?
[/quote]

I've tried Pomberry and Exotic Passion Kiss. And they are no longer sparking when I place them on the bowl
[/quote]
Even though they are done sparking, that doesn't always mean the are fully lit. Make sure they are red all over or ashed over slightly. You wouldn't be lighting them on top of the bowl either? Also, any other changes in coals/shisha and the way you prepare it since you got your new base?

[ih303]

1. You're smoking Starbuzz.

2. You're using QL's.

3. You're using THREE KINGS QL's.

Let me put it this way, the only way you could make it MORE chemical tasting is by switching to Fantasia or Social Smoke.

My advice, first ditch the QL's (they're notorious for tainting flavor). Nats are a bit more of a hassle to deal with for some people but are better in the long run, IMO. If that doesn't help, try a different tobaccy like AF or NK.

Let us know how it goes.

[Grappler]

Just an update - I bought coconaras and tangiers and it was the best session
I've ever had. Not gonna use QL again if I can help it