0Mr. Steel Beard was the original Philishave® mascot and is the property of Royal Philips Electronics.  He looks so handsome that I made him the Electric Shaver Page's mascot.  The Mr. Steel Beard graphic appears courtesy of the Philishave Collectors Club.

This archived section of the Electric Shaver Page features forum postings made in 2003. Click here for this year's postings. If you want to add your comments, E-mail me with the subject line TELL MR. STEEL BEARD in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS with your comments. Comments will be screened for suitability to all ages.

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From: mkorson@sbcglobal.net

Date: Saturday, December 20, 2003 2:07 PM

Subject: TELL MR. STEEL BEARD

Hi.

I'm having a heck of a time getting a new electric reazor. I've used electric razors exclusively since I started shaving (over 20 years ago). For years now I've been using Remington foil shavers (never have tried rotary). I now use the MicroScreen2 TCT. I'm not getting a close shave and have to shave 2 times a day. So I bought the Syncro 7526 a week ago (given how everyone raves about it). No luck. I don't like it -- I still have to shave 2 times a day.

What electric foil shaver gives the CLOSET shave? That's really all I want -- the other gimmicks pale in comparison to a close shave.

Thank you for your help.

Michael Korson

Oakland, CA

Thanks for your question, Michael. While I don't have an answer right now, I've received more favourable input on the Braun Syncro compared to other foil shavers. Braun has a new product line which is even better than the Syncro which is the Activator which is only available in Europe right now. I'm following a thread in the Electric Razor Rap message board at http://jimelliott.suddenlaunch2.com/index.cgi is about the Braun Activator line. The Activator's foil has a new geometric pattern which should get the whiskers betters. I'm waiting for the first full report on the Braun Activator shavers and you can check out the above Electric Razor Rap URL whenever that report is posted. I hope this helps. I hope the Braun Activator becomes available in North America very quickly. If anyone has any suggestions for Michael, please let us know.

From: AFguy1074@aol.com

Date: Wednesday, December 17, 2003 7:47 AM

Sir, thank you for the reply, i have since then taken the freeglider back and got the Syncro 7526 and wow what a difference just in my first shave with the syncro, i'm sold....

thank you

sincerely , Manuel

Thanks for the update, Manuel comparing the Braun FreeGlider and Syncro models. I'm glad you love your Braun Syncro. That seems to be the most popular foil shaver right now.

From: "Jane Solo" <tinkerbell@clinic.net>

Date: Wednesday, December 17, 2003 12:33 AM

Dear Sir,

I am working toward the purchase of an electric shaver for my husband. Since I know/understand so little about facial shaving, I have found your site devoted to this subject invaluable. Thank you.

From reading customer's comments at various sites, it seems to me that the foil models, don't offer the closest shave, men have problems around the neck area, and the foil doesn't last very long (which I imagine adds up $). I have begun to narrow my search in on the Norelco models. While leaning toward the Norelco Reflex Plus or the Spectra, I noticed that you mentioned you have the Norelco Quadra. Is there a particular reason you chose the Quadra model over the other choices? Furthermore, I am intrigued by your comment to "Kirk" of December 1st. You said, "The shave is the same with every model within a shaver's product line." Does this mean that a shaver with two heads such as your Quadra gives the same shave as one with three heads such as the Spectra or Reflex models? (Sorry for my ignorance, I don't actually know what the "head" is or does.)

Thanks again, your commitment to this subject is amazing.

Jane

You're welcome, Jane and thanks for your note. The reason I got my Quadra shaver was more for the care-free cleaning under the faucet for this waterproof shaver as opposed to the shaving perfomance which is very good. At the time I got my Quadra, the Philishave Sensotec/Norelco Spectra shavers had not been introduced yet. Actually, my Quadra (a Philishave HQ6425 corded model to be exact) is a three-headed model. There are two-headed Quadra models available (but not in North America) but I consider two-headed and three-headed models to be different product lines. The two-headed Quadra is not waterproof, by the way. The 'head' is the actual shaving surface of the shaver. The main differences within a product line is the recharging bells and whistles with the rechargeable models such as charge level indicators in which the high-end models tell how many shaves you have left as opposed to the low end models which only have a warning light saying to recharge the shaver. Within the same product line, models can fall within these three types: there are cord/cordless models in which you can use the shaver either with a cord or cordless and are the most desirable, cordless-only models in which the cord is used only for recharging which is inconvenient if the shaver gives out in the middle of a shave, and corded-only models with no batteries inside. I hope this helps.

From: AFguy1074@aol.com

Date: Saturday, December 13, 2003 2:30 PM

Hello Sir,

i just bought a Braun Freeglider 6680 and i have not used it yet, it's recharging right now. My question is, are there any user comments out there on this specific shaver because i always do research before i buy something like this and i couldn't find any comments. So, if any of the users in your website have/still use the Freeglider, i would like to get their comments about it. Also, what is your take on this shaver? i have pretty sensitive skin and my beard does grow back pretty fast even when i shave with Schick Quatro.

thank you for your time

sincerely,

Manuel

Thanks for your note, Manuel. I hope that readers who are using a Braun FreeGlider will post their experiences to help you out. As I haven't used it myself, I can't give my own opinion. From what I read, The FreeGlider is a waterproof (for cleaning purposes only) shaver which includes a built-in shaving conditioner dispenser which minimizes irritation to allow for a more comfortable shave. If anyone can tell us their experience with the Braun FreeGlider shaver, please tell us.

From: "Craig Friedberg"

Date: Thursday, December 11, 2003 8:00 PM

Dear Mr. Steel Beard:

I am looking into possible purchasing the Eltron 2000 electric shaver. I currently use a Mach 3 razer and shave every 2 days (I find that I get a better shave when I let the beard grow a little). I am, however, getting tired of the little nicks that come with razors. I am looking into possibly purchasing the Eltron 2000 electric shaver, but have not been able to find any reviews for it. Is there anything you can tell me about the Eltron or a comparable electric shaver? Thanks for your insight.

Thanks for your note, Craig. Looking up what info there is on the Eltron 2000 shaver, I noticed that it was made in Japan. Eltron is an American marketer of shavers which contracts with other companies around the world to make shavers for them. If anyone has used this shaver, please tell us your experiences with it.

From: John Evans

Date: Thursday, December 11, 2003 5:17 PM

Dear Sir:

Who makes corded only shavers?

Thank you,

John

Thanks for your question, John. I know Philips makes Philishave and Norelco corded shavers along with Remington and Braun. But most of them tend to be of low-end models. Philishave outside the USA is an obvious exception as they made corded versions of their high-end models. I have a corded Philishave Quadra shaver myself which has no Norelco counterpart in the USA and you can get a corded Philishave Sensotec (same as Norelco Spectra) in Canada. Mercury Shaver Centre of Toronto (one of my sponsored links) sells a variety of corded only shavers from Philishave plus a Remington MS2-100 MicroScreen 3x model which is corded. Braun's corded model I found in Braun's web site is an InterFace Excel model 3105. I hope this helps.

From: Brooke Bannister

Date: Thursday, December 11, 2003 1:59 PM

I recently tried out the Braun Synchro System, thinking it would be great to wake up every morning with a clean, well-oiled shaver. Although certain areas of my face were easy to cut, I just couldn't get the shaver to get the short hairs on my chin and neck. I would spend at least five minutes on those areas alone. Thinking it was just a face thing and that, eventually my skin would adjust, I carried on past the trial period until well over a month of use. Finally, I gave up, took the shaver back, and tried the Norelco Quadra. What a difference! The Quadra took to my skin immediately and within two days, I was getting almost every hair that the BSS wasn't. So now I'm a faithful Norelco fan. Sometimes we fall in love with the technology of the shaver and forget about quality of the shave. From my experience anyway, it's been a great lesson learned.

Thanks for your note comparing a Braun Syncro and a Norelco (Philishave) Quadra shaver.

From: G Hunter

Date: Thursday, December 11, 2003 9:00 AM

Hi I'm considering buying an electric shaver, however, I want to make sure I make a good purchase. I've found your message board to be quite informative (and I was also suprised that such a site existed), so I thought I'd ask you a question. I've seen the various shavers with all of their trinkets (i.e. LCD display, wet/dry, cordless/cord, gell, self cleaning, waterproof, rotary vs. foil, etc.) that are supposed to resolve customer concerns with electric shavers (i.e. closeness of shave, razor burn, longterm maintenance, comfort, irritation, etc.). As a newbie to electric shavers I would like to konw how important the trinkets are when buying a shaver? In general I have fine hair, and I think I would be classified as having sensitive skin. I also like to have a clean cut face and view facial hair as a newsence more than anything else.

As a followup to the above question, I don't want to be bothered or suprised at any longterm maintenance that electric shavers have. I also don't want to be suprised about any short lifespan of the shavers. So, I have a three part question: What kind of maintenance is required for the electric shavers? How bothersome are they to maintain? And how long are the shavers expected to last?

Thanks for your help,

Geoff

Thanks for your note, Geoff. I'll try to answer your questions. On #1, I usually do a quick emptying of the shaver of whiskers after each shaving and do a through cleaning every week or so. To minimize the tedious nature of the cleaning regimen, I use a waterproof shaver for cleaning purposes only which is a Philishave/Norelco Quadra model which (like the higher-end Philishave Sensotec and Norelco Spectra models) can be cleaned under the faucet (after unplugging the cord from the shaver, of course). After cleaning, I use a spray lubricant for shavers following the instructions on the label. Braun's high-end models use a cleaning machine which makes shaver maintenance carefree but the cleaning solution can be expensive. With non-waterproof shavers, you would use a brush which comes with the shaver to sweep out the whiskers. In answering question #2, I may have answered that with the waterproof shavers. With the non-waterproof models, a simple brushing off of the foil shaver is all that's needed. If the shaver company offers a lubricant for your model, use that afterwards. The problem with foil shavers is that if you dent the foil or the foil breaks, you need to replace the foil immediately. Rotary shaver heads are much more durable, but its cleaning regimen involves making sure you keep the combs and cutters matched while cleaning as mixing them can adversely affect shaver performance. I got a Philips/Norelco electrosonic head cleaner which I don't know if its still available but it comes with a tray to keep combs and cutters matched. Norelco does offer a liquid shaver cleaner with a large cup to put the entire head assembly inside, but even then I would use a cotton swab to clean the gunk which may appear under the combs. As for question #3, with rechargeable shavers, the batteries inside tend to last an average of five years before the batteries need replacing. Corded shavers can last indefinitely as long as parts are still available. I hope this answers your questions.

From: Cristina

Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2003 3:51 PM

Hello!

First off, I want to thank you for your informative site! I decided to get my new husband an electric shaver as a Christmas present and had NO IDEA what a big job lay ahead! He has sensitive skin, but thick wavy hair. As a result, he has horrible razor bumps on his neck ALWAYS. He has a trimmer to shave his goatee, but only uses a regular razor to shave his face and neck. After reading through the advice you gave other people and looking through E-bay- I decided on the Norelco Quadra 7825XL. Is this a good decision for him? Also, would it be easier on his skin to get him the Face Saver powderstick you've mentioned, or will it shorten the life of the shaver and get it full of gunk? My husband's skin really needs some relief from razor abuse!

Thank you for your time, I really appreciate it!

Cristina :)

Thanks for your note, Cristina. Yes, I think so and your husband's skin will really appreciate the powder stick. When using the powder stick, the shaver should be cleaned more often. The waterproof construction of the Philishave/Norelco Quadra shavers makes it easy to clean the shaver under the faucet. Of course, make sure the shaver is unplugged first. With my Quadra, I wipe the shaver with a towel afterwards and let it air dry. Then I use the spray lubricant offered by Philips/Norelco following the label's instructions. I try to do this once a week. The same thing applies with the Philishave/Norelco Sensotec/Spectra shavers which are also waterproof for cleaning purposes only. I hope this helps.

From: "John Roush" <JRoush@oshtruck.com>

Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2003 10:49 AM

I leave this Sat for Cairo and would appreciate a response before I depart. A friend in Cairo has asked that I bring a Phillishave 800 battery with me. He has provided the following info: 1.2 volt, 700 mAS, gp70aFK1a1H, C70d5L23b. Can I purchase this battery in a local store? Thanks.

John W. Roush

Program Manager

Middle East Programs

Oshkosh Truck Corporation

Thanks for your note, John. With the info you gave me, I went to the Norelco web site. Norelco and Philishave are one and the same and the parts are the same. Using the Norelco web site's live support feature, I got a list of Norelco authorized service centers near where you are in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, USA. They are Electric Shaver Service Inc 509 West Walnut Street Green Bay, WI 54303 Phone: 920-435-3878; Kiefer's Shaver & App 4511 Monona Drive Monona, WI 53716 Phone: 608-221-3322; Authorized Electric Repair 1010 Lincoln Street Center Rhinelander, WI 54501 Phone: 715-369-5520; Lindberg's Appliance Service 208 7th Street Rockford, IL 61104 Phone: 815-965-7794; Flex O Matic Products 1224 Caledonia Street Lacrosse, WI 54603 Phone: 608-782-6291. You should ask your friend in Cairo to find out if the battery pack he needs is either NiCad or NiMH as using the wrong type can damage the shaver's electronics. I hope this helps.

From: Yucht Jared

Date: Tuesday, December 09, 2003 11:53 AM

I figured I'd give a review of the Remington ES1000 because I've seen a few questions about. I've had the shaver for a couple of months now. Just so you know, I've had a lot of problems with ingrown hairs over the years and have fought it tooth and nail. I can't even grow a beard because my hair is so curly it looks stupid and is so uncomfortable. For the past year I've used the Andis Outliner II which is a fantastic option for those of you who don't need a close shave. It's a little messy with hairs flying everywhere but the cleanup is easy. Problem is those days when you need to look clean shaven whether it be for work or a wedding or whatever. So, after having tried every top of the line model over the past 5 years which was getting awfully expensive I finally decided to give the Remington a chance. I bought it at Kmart for $62. My first shave was really quick. It took all of 3 minutes and I had no problems with the chin or neck hairs at all which is rare with electrics. Only problem was I got a heck of a razor burn. Couple of days later the same thing, fast shave and more shaver burn. Now it's been 2 months. No more razor burns and still a fast shave. Not a cure all if you think it'll end ingrown hairs. The reality is if you get them you'll always get them until your body physically changes. I still use the Andis if I can because I get less ingrown hairs from it but the Remington is the best option out there if you need a close shave and aren't interested in ruining your face. By the way, I use Total Shaving oil preshave and Moore Unique aftershave and routinely clean and oil both shavers.

Jared

Thanks for the report, Jared.

From: "Ricardo Guerreiro" <rgguerreiro@iol.pt>

Date: Tuesday, December 09, 2003 7:45 AM

Hello,

For the last 2 years, that I use a Philishave Quadra Action HQ6832.

Now it's time to change blades! However with the type of my beard, I believe the blades with only slots (Reflex Action), are better that the blades with slots and holes (Quadra Action).

Is it possible to put blades like Reflex Action with only slots, in my HQ6832?

Thanks,

R. Guerreiro

Portugal

Thanks for your note, Ricardo. Unfortunately for you, the HQ5 Reflex Action heads and the HQ6 Quadra heads are NOT interchangeable. The cams and mounts are different on both heads.

From: Laurie Little

Date: Saturday, December 06, 2003 9:05 AM

Hi,

I am looking for an electric razor for my husband. He has a VERY stiff and heavy beard and has never used an electric razor because he didn't think he could get a close shave. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Laurie

Thanks for your question, Laurie. Electric shavers have improved in recent years. Of the widely available models. I can mention some choices. The high-end Philishave Sensotec or Norelco Spectra shaver which are both the same shaver. If you can't afford it, the Philishave SuperReflex (aka Norelco Reflex Plus) is a good moderately priced shaver. For those who prefer a foil shaver, the Braun Syncro is the one that gets the most positive comments. I hope this helps.

From: Adrian

Date: Friday, December 05, 2003 10:56 PM

Hey There-

I've been reading on your site and saw some questions similar to mine, but I thought I'd go ahead and ask in case you have a different answer for me.

I've always used a Mach 3. I have to shave every day to keep it from looking pretty nasty (I generally get a 5 o'clock shadow well before 5). However, I only really grow hair on my upper lip and chin. I also have pretty sensitive skin (I currently use sensitive skin shave gel).

Next year I'm going off to college, and I want an electric so that I don't have to go through the trouble of manual shaving.

I want the closest shave possible so I don't have to reshave too often. I also want something that won't irritate my face.

Any suggestions?

Thanks

-adrian

Thanks for your question, Adrian. While I don't know your budget, I'll mention the top two choices. Both say that they give close and comfortable shaves. In the rotary shaver category, there's the Philishave Sensotec shaver which is called the Norelco Spectra in the USA. In the foil shaver category, there is the Braun Syncro. Both product lines have several models available in different price ranges. If you can't afford those two, the more moderately priced Philishave SuperReflex (Norelco Reflex Plus in the USA) has received positive feedback. I hope this helps.

From: Richard Taylor

Date: Friday, December 05, 2003 6:13 PM

Mr. Steel Beard:

I am a black male experiencing razor bump problems. I currently use the Mach 3 Turbo and am looking into the Remington Ultra Smooth Bump Control Shaver. What product would you recommend I use. Also, have you heard of Cool Glide? It is a laser hair removal treatment product.

Thank you in advance.

Thanks for your note, Richard. I haven't heard of Cool Glide, so I looked it up. While permanent hair removal is not within the realm of this web site, the Cool Glide method does seem to be the least painful way of permanently removing unwanted hair without such side effects as permanent skin discolouration which is a problem for those with darker skin tones such as yourself. As for the shaver, just like the previous posting immediately below this one, I highly recommend the Remington ES-1000 UltraSmooth Bump Control shaver. I hope this helps.

From: Brian Lee

Date: Thursday, December 04, 2003 5:42 PM

Hi,

I'm a 21 year old African American/Caucasian/Native American male college student who has very sensitive skin and suffers from razors bumps and wishes to switch to an electric razor, however, I am confused about what brand and model to buy. I have very curly facial hair and after research have read that I should stay away from Norelco products because the "lift and cut" technology can cause major irritation to sensitive skinned people and I do not want to shave everyday (I would like to starve off shaving to at least every two or three days). I've tried a Braun microfilm razor with no results. My roomate has a Remington R835 that I have been using that has been effective, but it is a pain trying to get hairs around the neck area and I want a shave that is a little closer. As with all college students, I'm on a budget, so I'm willing to spend around $50 dollars for an electric razor, but will pay a little more. The most important thing I'm looking for in a razor is a close shave with as little irritation possible. Your site has been very if not the most informative place I've been thus far in my research. Thank you for devoting time to such a seemingly mundane topic like electric razors.

Brian

Thanks for your note, Brian. I've been suggesting for men with the problems you're having is to get a slotted head shaver which staightens whiskers before cutting to minimize razor bumps. Remington has one which is the ES-1000 UltraSmooth Bump Control shaver. The price is around the US$60 level so it is just above your price range. The Internet search engines using Remington and "ES-1000" as the key words can bring you some good price comparison web sites with links to the on-line shops which sell this shaver. Remington's own web site mentions where you may buy it at http://www.remington-products.com/usa/buy/index.html I hope this helps.

From: <KirkIsrael@alienbill.com>

Date: Monday, December 01, 2003 10:12 AM

Hello there!

What an extensive site!

What is the best way to get information on the various shavers out there? I've been using a Sensor Excel (Mach 3 just seemed silly, a big flat sharp cutting surface, and I can't believe they're think 4 blades will be even better...) usually with Edge gel for sensitive skin. I'd shave about once a week, getting a but scruffy but not too bad, a fresh blade each time, but now I'd like to shave more often, and I'd like to consider an electric shaver. Where do I go for information on the various brands, or for a general re-introduction to electric shaving? I have a baby face, reasonably slow growing but prickly whiskers (maybe indicating they're relatively thin? I'm not sure) and would consider shaving every day or every other day if the process was convenient enough.

Thanks!

Kirk

Thanks for your enquiry, Kirk. Besides the various resources on the Internet, some of which I have links to, there is the most recent issue of Consumer Reports magazine to review shavers which is the November 2002 issue which you should find in the public library. While Consumer Reports is on the Internet at http://www.consumerreports.org , full access requires a subscription to the service. While it is somewhat outdated now, many models tested do have suitable substitutions. In a nutshell, the top rotary model was a Norelco (Philishave) Reflex Action model, but that product line is being superseded by the Reflex Plus (SuperReflex) line. Among foil shavers, the Braun Syncro line, still top of the line in North America, is #1. I'm saying product line as opposed to specific models because only the recharging bells and whistles as well as other features not related to the shaving heads are the only differences within a product line. In other words, the shave is the same with every model within a shaver's product line. You can also check the message boards I maintain links to of which my favourite is Jim Elliott's Electric Razor Rap. Jim likes a Philishave SuperReflex (or Norelco Reflex Plus which is the same thing) shaver himself. I hope this helps.

From: Christine Balkwill

Date: Sunday, November 30, 2003 9:37 PM

Hi,

Was hoping you might help me decide on a shaver for my boyfriend. He has been using Mach 3 Razors which he really likes but doesn't shave every day as it takes too long. I'm hoping if we could get him an electric shaver he could use it on the off days. He occassionaly uses his grandfather's extremely old Braun shaver. He says that he has sensitive skin. What would you recommend in the under $200 CAD range?

Thanks,

Christine

Thanks for your enquiry, Christine. I've been checking the Canadian shops on line for some ideas based on your budget. Some Canadian on-line shops list prices in U.S. dollars so I had to keep a currency exchange web page handy to check the real prices for you. The idea shaver for those with sensitive skin would be a Philishave Sensotec model, but they are over your C$200 budget. I use a Philishave Quadra myself and several Quadra models are within your budget. Since he uses a Braun, their Syncro top of the line models include some within your budget as well. Jim Elliott at the Electric Razor Rap message board strongly endorses the new moderately priced Philishave SuperReflex models which are all within your budget. I hate to give you more than one choice, but I hope this helps.

From: Pppatlaw@aol.com

Date: Sunday, November 30, 2003 6:42 AM

Dear Mr. Steelbeard:

Can you please tell me why Philips added a cloverleaf like shape the faceplate surrounding the cutter heads (90 Super 12) in about 1975? Is it decoration or does it improve the shave?

Thank you

Thanks for your enquiry. You're referring to a series of significant improvements Philips made to Philishave and Norelco shavers beginning in 1966. I think the cloverleaf design you're thinking of is when Philips introduced triple-head shavers world wide in 1966. The "90 Super 12" you refer to is 90 shaving slots in each head with 12 cutters underneath (as opposed to old models with 60 shaving heads and 6 cutters underneath) which were introduced in 1969. Philips did experiment with triple head shavers a decade before when it test marketed two triple-headed models in Australia and New Zealand in 1956. The project was abandoned back then because triple-headed shavers would have taxed Philips' production capacity at that time and because they thought that the two-headed shaver could be improved upon. They were when "flip-top" models were introduced in 1957 and "floating heads" models in 1959. In 1959, Philips also tried wave-shaped slots to get different types of whiskers. Philips mentioned that the triple-headed shavers shaved closer than 30% faster than their two-headed predecessor. The improved heads on the 90 Super 12 models effectively increased the shaving surface and beard hairs were caught more easily. I hope this answers your questions.

APPENDIX DATED DECEMBER 2:  I received a clarification as to the cloverleaf being the raised area surrounding the three heads on the head housing.  I believe this is part decorative and part to improve the comfort level when shaving, akin to two small stair steps to the shaving head instead of one big stair step.  I hope that's the answer you're looking for.

From: Solomon Myers

Date: Saturday, November 29, 2003 12:32 PM

Hello Gary,

It has been another week and so far the Wahl Lift n' Wash shaver is still giving me absolutely great shaves. They are still "with the grain blade shaving" close and they still last throughout the entire day. As I predicted, the sound of the razor slightly slowing did give me sufficient advance warning about when it would run out of a charge so that I had two shaves left when I first noticed it. Everything stated in my prior review still stands. I looked at the link for the Sunbeam Razors sold in Australia which Nick Hand had sent in and it appears to be the same line of razors. The Sunbeam razors hold a charge for 70 minutes, so I'm assuming they have a different battery. The "Lift n' Wash" series appear to be Payer manufactured razors sold under different brand names in different parts of the world......this bodes well for future availability of replacement parts.

Happy shaving to all.

Thanks for the update, Solomon.  I couldn't find any specs for the Wahl or Sunbeam Lift & Wash shavers which indicate the type of batteries used.  You mentioned that your Wahl model uses NiCads.  I'm wondering if the Sunbeam models use NiMH batteries instead.  Can anyone help us out?

From: <nick.hand@kwp.com.au>

Date: Tuesday, November 25, 2003 2:34 AM

Gary

Just had a look at your 'ad of the week' for the Sunbeam Shavemaster, where you mentioned Sunbeam don't sell shavers anymore.

You might be interested to know that Sunbeam are marketing shavers under the Sunbeam brand name in Australia. I haven't investigated them at all (have only been on the market a few months), only that I have seen them in the stores. Reading Sol Meyers latest posting to Tell Mr Steel Beard, they could actually be the Wahl shavers he has just tried (they have that 'Payer look' about them if that makes sense), and in fact now I think of it, they are called 'Lift & wash'.

I've copied the URL to Sunbeam Australia's website

http://www.sunbeam.com.au/products/product_listing.cfm

Cheers

Nick Hand

Chief Surgeon

kwp! Advertising

Thanks for the info, Nick.  I've added Sunbeam of Australia to the list of shaver companies on line as well as adding a disclamer to Sunbeam's listing in the Shaver Brands of the Past page.  Sunbeam of Australia is no longer connected to Sunbeam in the USA.  Looking at Sunbeam Australia's history section, the Australian company was sold in 1996 to GUD Holdings Limited.  The American company is today a division of American Household, Inc.  Thanks again, Nick.

From: Dan Mullins

Date: Sunday, November 23, 2003 4:48 PM

Hello Sir, I am a youngster of 18 that is looking for an electric razor before I go off to college when I won't have time to do an hours worth of research on anything taht doesn't pertain to my education. I have always used a Mach3 because that is what my father has used throughout my lifetime, but I find the whole shaving experience to be tedious and messy. I really don't have time to fill the basin with warm water and shave properly. Also, I still have the residual effects of pimples on my face and I find the straight edge as painful and scaring. I have used an older Remington left over from one of my older brothers and been soundly disappointed by the effects, come to find out that the foil blade was probably 7 years old... Now on to the razor question. I was hoping that you may have a razor suggestion for me. I believe I have rather straight stubble that doesn't curl until it gets quite long. My neck hair grows twice as fast as that on my face it seems, so I would really like to shave that in the best way possible. Finally, I have a very defined jaw line that always forces me to strain in order to get my blade to get the sharp edge without killing myself. I really don't know if I need a rotary blade or a foil one. Should I get a lubricating razor or no. My price range is flexible up until 130 dollars, but if I could get a sound razor for less I would much rather save the money than to have a bell that I would never honk or a whistle I would never blow. I thank you in advance for any advice you may pass my way. Thanks, Dan.

Thanks for your note, Dan.  Based on your shaving needs as well as a desire to save money, I would suggest either a Norelco Reflex Plus if you're in the USA or a Philishave Super Reflex shaver if you're outside the USA.  Both are the same 6000 series shaver.  They have all slotted heads to get the longer whiskers and the heads follow the contours of your face in a three dimensional manner to give you closer contact for a closer shave.  If you don't want all the bells and whistles, it even comes in a corded model.  I hope this helps.

From: "Sol Myers" <toptube@corecomm.net>

Date: Friday, November 21, 2003 1:53 AM

Hi Gary and all of you electric razor fans out there. I've gone and purchased yet another razor.....a Wahl lift n' wash model 7056-517 (also known as model 39 by the Austrian manufacturer). Price: $49.99 (US) at Walgreens. Features: washable, two foils with a long hair reciprocal cutter inbetween, ultra speed (seems high speed to me, although exact speed not specified), counter directional cutters to minimize noise and vibration, pop up trimmer, NiCad batteries, cordless only (no corded operation), 45 minute charge, 8 hour charge time, charging indicator light, overcharge protection (no low charge indicator), foil protector, nice cloth case which does not hold the charging cord/transformer, and a cleaning brush. Appearance: Solidly built in Austria (presumably by Payer, but I could be wrong), quality ergonomic feel and shape, all black and silver-grey decent quality plastic, head does not swivel but is angled. There are two buttons which you press and the foil head slowly lifts up on what seems like a hydrolic like spring mechanism for washing. There are vent holes on the sides for quick drying and drainage as well.

There is also a model 7055-500 (which I haven't seen at any bricks and mortar stores, but which is listed on Wahl's web site). This model, also known as the model 39.1 (in the instruction manual) has all the same features, although it allows cordless and corded operation, has a 1 hour quick charge, and has a low charge indicator. I've seen it on line for about $80.00.

Now for the important part, the shave quality. The razor feels solid and is relatively quiet for a foil razor (quieter than a braun Flex XP or a Remington MS3, louder than a Braun Syncro). The first shave was bad! I was so disappointed. It felt rough on my skin, took a long time, and did not get the long neck hairs easily (I have a tough curly beard and have been shaving with a Braun Flex XP). There was no money back guarantee, so I decided to use it one more time just to see.....Wow, what a close shave! By day three, it was close and quick. I had been taking 6 to 7 minutes to shave with the Braun. With the Wahl, it now takes me only 4 to 5 minutes to shave. I've been using the Wahl for a week and am very happy with the shave quality. It gives me a blade close with the grain (as opposed to against the grain) shave (I cannot feel any stubble with my hand after shaving and my face feels smooth). The smooth shaven feel lasts a long time. The most important thing is that I am getting that shave with no redness or irritation whatsoever. It actually feels good on my skin when shaving now.

I was already using a foil razor so my adjustment may have been easier than it will be for some others. So far I am very happy with the razor in terms of both shave quality and price. I am a little concerned about the ability to find foil and cutter replacements in the future because I haven't seen them anywhere yet (not even on Wahl's web site). However, the razor is new and despite Wahl being a smaller player, they have a history of supporting their razors. I'm guessing that by the time I need a resupply, Wahl will have them available. I would rather not have NiCad batteries for environmental reasons, but I haven't generally had problems with them in the past and they do seem to last a long time. I would rather have had a low charge indicator, although I decided it wasn't really a necessity and it wasn't worth $30 extra for the higher end model. The fact of the matter is that with my Braun I haven't usually looked to see if the low charge indicator light was on until I heard the razor slow down a little. In other words, I decided that the noise of the motor slowing down has usually been my real low charge indicator. When I hear that, I normally have about two shaves left. I haven't yet gotten there with the Wahl as I am still on my first charge.

OK, that is my initial review....I will definitely report back with more info after I've used the razor some more. Why did I switch from the Braun Flex XP? Well, I like that razor a lot, but it is a bit loud and it takes a long time to get a good shave. The build quality is excellent, but I wish it was quieter and had a faster speed motor (just in case the razor gods at Braun are reading this forum). I did use my braun one day since getting the Wahl and it just seemed to not give quite as close of a shave (although still a very good shave) and was loud by comparison. I'll be happy to answer any questions your readers might have about the Wahl and will report back after I've used it more.

Thanks for keeping up a great forum.

Sol Myers

You're welcome, Sol and thanks for your initial review of your Wahl 7056-517 shaver.  I found a picture of your shaver in Walgreen's web site (http://www.walgreens.com) and I can check out the nearby Walgreen's pharmacy (within walking distance) to see this shaver for myself.  As for who made this shaver for Wahl, I'm leaning towards Payer as your model 39.1 does follow Payer's pattern for model numbers.  Wahl's Moser subsidiary in Germany shows their shaver models, but they don't even come close to what you have.  Payer's web sites for Austria and Hungary do not list a model 39.1, but we can always E-mail Payer to ask them about it.  I've already E-mailed Payer's Austrian office and I'll post their reply when I get it.  I'm looking forward to you next review, Sol and thanks again.

From: "William Jarvis" <wmjarvis@uchicago.edu>

Date: Tuesday, November 18, 2003 7:28 PM

Hey, my name is Will,

About two months ago before starting college I picked up an electric, knowing I wouldn't have time to shave by hand here. After doing some web-research here and at other sites, I ended up getting a Norelco Quadra Action 7825. Couple of questions associated with this.

First, I have by and large been happy with it, but for one small problem. It doesn't seem to shave very closely on my neck, and usually leaves irritation. I'm not sure if this is due to ingrown whiskers (if so how do I prevent) or just irritation, but how do I solve this? I've had the shaver for about 2 and 1/2 months, so I should be broken in.

Second, I have very long hair (young college hippy I guess). So, often when shaving it gets caught by the blade and cut in. I've been avoiding this when possible, but it is inevitable at times. Now there is some tightly wrapped hair wound around the plastic spools that actually turn the blades inside the shaver head. Any ideas for getting it off?

One other question-how often is it necessary to change the cutters in my Norelco, and can they be sharpened somehow?

Thanks for your help and informative site!

Will

You're welcome, Will and thanks for your note.  On the first question, I consider ingrown whiskers (aka "razor bumps") and irritation to be two different problems.  Razor bumps can occur if you shave a sharp point in your whisker which allows it to re-enter the skin.  Irritation is reddened skin because of too many skin cells being shaved off along with the whiskers.  You could use pre-shave preparations which say they help straighten whiskers before shaving and make sure you stretch your skin while shaving.  On the second question, the hair caught in the spools is one problem I have not encountered before.  Other people may have better ideas then mine which is to take a utility knife to cut the outer part of hair wrapping then using tweezers to try and upwrap it.  A better way of shaving a long beard is to use a beard trimmer (or hair clipper) both without the guard to cut the long beard then using the shaver to get the resulting shorter beard.  As for when to replace the heads, Philips recommends they they be changed annually.  There is a company (which is also a sponsored link) which markets head sharpening sets for Philishave and Norelco shavers which is Vollco.  While I have had mixed experience with the Vollco sharpeners, others love them.  Philips of course, which made your Quadra shaver, does not recommend them and a Philips executive actually posted a rebuttal in Tell Mr. Steel Beard a few years back.  Just click on the Vollco banner on the left for more info.  I hope this helps.

From: Michael Indart

Date: Monday, November 17, 2003 2:45 AM

I have been using an electric razor for about 8 months now, I've went from the Norelco Spectra to the Braun Syncro. The Norelco gave me a good shave but never could get my neck or jaw line well, not to mention the irritation it caused me. I next tried the Braun Syncro which I am very pleased with. Though I can only complain about one thing, I still have some trouble with my neck line, I notice the hairs grow in many different directions on that part of my face, which is why I think I seem to have trouble in that area of my face. I can eventually get all the hairs off but my skin gets irritated after a while and turns red. I've tried stretching my skin and using pre shave lotions....everything I can think of. Maybe I shouldn't shave every day with the razor and allow the hairs to grow longer so the razor could pick up the hairs easier? I figured you'd be able to help me out

thanks,

mike

Thanks for your note, Brian.  Foil shavers have problems in shaving the neck area.  Before the Quadra and the Sensotec/Spectra models came out, I've been saying that rotary shavers are better at shaving the neck area.  The Philishave/Norelco Quadra and Sensotec/Spectra shavers have holes and slots.  Other rotary shavers have slots only.  It's the slots which get the neck whiskers better than the holes.  I have a Quadra shaver myself.  I found out after not shaving for two days that I do a better job shaving if I use a different shaver.  As I have several other working shavers, I either use a rechargeable Reflex Action (replaced by the Super Reflex or Reflex Plus) or an older Micro Action (replaced by the Micro+) corded model.  Today if someone asked about a great budget shaver, a Norelco Reflex Plus or Philishave Super Reflex would be my recommendation.  For those preferring reciprocating cutters instead of rotating cutters, Remington has the ES-1000 UltraSmooth Bump Control shaver which is all-slotted head shaver.  I hope this helps.

From: "Ricardo Zamel" <ricardo.zamel@utoronto.ca>

Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2003 12:06 PM

I've recently decided I want to remain clean shaven, after years of sporting a goatee, a decision more than slightly influenced by the pain of shaving this region of my face. I started using razors but found the shave to be quite poor if going in the direction of my beard, and extremely hard on my skin if going in the opposite direction. So I decided to have a go at electric, hoping to strike a happy medium.

The shaver I picked up is a Panasonic ES8092 (linear, wet/dry with pivoting head). I'd tried Panasonic and Philips shavers a few years ago and gave up on the Panasonic because it was ineffective at getting longer hairs or neck hairs and the Philips because it irritated my skin too much. Panasonic seems to have come a ways because this shaver really impressed me. It managed to give a quite close shave and with a little work even get all my neck hairs. I shave dry. I tried using cream once but did not find it helped much and just made everything messier.

It's been a few weeks now and I'm really happy with the job it's doing on my cheeks, neck, jaw and even moustache. The problem is that I'm still getting lots of painful, and ugly, razor bumps in the area below my lower lip and also below the corners of my mouth. They generally start hurting and showing up several hours after shaving and evolve into small, white, puss-filled bumps. What I'm unclear on is if these are due to irritation or if they are actually ingrown hairs. If I just keep at it, will my skin eventually adapt or is the shaver actually shaving too close and I'll never be able to get rid of them? Or if it's irritation, not ingrown hairs, is there some lubricant that will help the problem? Should I go back to trying with the cream?

Any advice would be very welcome.

Thanks,

Ricardo

Thankx for your enquiry, Ricardo.  I believe the razor bumps are ingrown whiskers.  What type of whiskers to you have?  If they are curly, they are prone to razor bumps if you're not careful.  What happens is if you shave the whiskers when they are laying flat, you shave a point onto the whisker allowing it to easily re-enter the skin.  You may want to stretch the skin while shaving to help the whiskers stand up and/or use a pre-shave preparation which can help the whiskers to stand up before shaving.  My definition of irritation is reddened skin from too many skin cells being shaved off along with the whiskers.  I hope this helps.

From: Sarah

Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2003 10:06 PM

Dear Gary;

In my search for decent electric shaver reviews I came across your useful website.

See, I'm looking for an electric shaver for boyfriend. He's had the same old green Norelco for years. I guess it does the job but he has mentioned a few times that it bothers his skin.

I read many of the letters in your forum and looked over your mini-poll. This information may be of use to someone who knows a bit about shavers however, it was hard for me to make out which shaver seems to be the best.

I guess what I need is your help. I'm not sure whether to go for Norelco, Braun or that PhiliShave brand. I'm also not sure if it's best to go with a wet and dry shaver. I'm willing to spend about $150.

I would very much appreciate your input.

Thank you in advance for your guidance.

Sincerely Yours,

Sarah

PS: You should be able to purchase Clarins Shaveease, mentioned in your forum, at Nordstrom's. Clarins is an upscale personal product line.

Thanks for your enquiry and your tip, Sarah.  While I don't know which Norelco model you boyfriend has, the green colour has me thinking that it's really old from the late 1960s as I recall such a two-headed shaver from way back when.  The heads for this shaver are hard to find nowadays.  Shavers have vastly improved since then.  Since your boyfriend is used to your Norelco (or its international cousin Philishave), I would suggest a new Philishave/Norelco shaver.  Typically, it would take about a month for a user's skin to get accustomed to a different shaving method.  You boyfriend's skin is probably already used to a new rotary shaver.  Their high end Spectra or Sensotec shavers are within your price range.  I don't know if your boyfriend has been using a rechargeable shaver, but they have gotten a lot better.  If he still wants a corded shaver, there is no corded Norelco Spectra, but there is a corded Philishave Sensotec available in Canada, the HQ8445.  My Canadian sponsored links which carry it are Mercury Shaver Centre and The Buyer's Club.  Otherwise, the Norelco Spectra are widely available.  Even though it's a dry shaver, it is washable under the faucet.  I prefer a dry shaver myself.  I hope this helps. 

From: "joneal1" <joneal1@uic.edu>

Date: Monday, November 10, 2003 1:00 PM

Hi --

I am wondering if you, or anyone, knows where I can get a new circuit board for an Eltron Electric Shaver (?).

Thanks,

John.

Thanks for your enquiry, John.  Eltron is strictly a marketer of electric shavers which does not have its own factories.  They contract with other shaver manufacturers to make their shavers.  Older Eltron shavers were made by Braun.  Most of the shavers Eltron makes nowadays are made by the Austrian shaver company Payer.  You may want to check the shaver repair shops on line who handle Eltron and Payer (or if it's a really old model, Braun) to find out if they have or can get the part for you.  Be sure to mention the model number of your shaver.  I hope this helps.

From: Max

To: Gary Flinn

Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2003 7:34 AM

One other thing Gary,

Since my Braun 5504 died of the apparent preprogrammed destruction, I did the good corporate slave thing and went out and bought a new clean and charge Braun. But buy cartridges all the time? I don't think so!

I have made an effective replacement solution for myself. Braun's original mix is 40% denatured alcohol, lemon and a bit of oil, as far as can gather. I put about 100ml ethanol / denatured alcohol (also known as Methylated Spirits, usually it's 95 to 96% ethanol) with a few drops of 100% essential oil of lemon, and added the balance as just plain old tap water. (A few drops of 100% lavender for the skin (& the scent) could do the trick too.)

Don't try ordinary supermarket cooking lemon juice (has slight remnants of pulp in it), as it will quickly block up the mesh in the cartridge & you won't get any fluid up to clean the shaver.

Cartridges aren't too hard to wash clean, just don't damage the little filter mesh on the bottom of the intake (large) hole. Take off the stickers on the thing to see how the water flows; it's all convoluted to ensure that owners have a difficult time washing the thing out, but they can't make it impossible for us to do so. A few drops of liquid soap shaken up, washed out thoroughly, and I tend to backflush it (in the big hole, out the little). Then in goes your new mixture, and you're set for another month. Always save the lid as it comes in handy for cleaning the cartridge!

see ya

Max.

Thanks for the new info, Max.

From: Max

Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2003 4:40 AM

I have a slightly different story with regard to shaver batteries.

My Braun 5504 was a faithful companion for a couple of years, and I almost always allowed full discharge before recharging. However, after a couple of overseas trips in which I (once or twice only) did not allow a full discharge before recharging, the batteries suddenly seemed to almost completely give up, not holding the charge for long at all. No amount of total discarges before recharging would fix them.

I then opened the shaver. Batteries were almost totally dead when they came out, but I was surprised to learn that after a charge on a separate battery charger, they held a full > ~1.4 volts each and have run a walkman for a few days now and are still at a high state (~1.35 volts) of charge.

So it seems my shaver died due to the electric circuitry within the shaver, not the batteries themselves. This really annoys me because it seems as if Braun has put in a "preprogrammed obsolescence" into it's shavers to get you to buy a new one after some use. Is Braun really that evil?

I would like to know if you or any of your visitors have comments or similar experiences!

Thanks

Max

(PS Thanks for the very useful website!)

You're welcome, Max and thanks for telling your experience with your rechargeable shaver and I hope other Braun rechargeable shavers users will tell us their experience.

From: "Paul" <paulv.benson@blueyonder.co.uk>

Date: Sunday, October 12, 2003 2:20 AM

Dear Gary

I know I have in the past mentioned my delight with my Grundig FX foil shaver but I have to acknowledge a better shaver. You won't be surprised to hear it's a Philishave Sensotec (Norelco Spectra) mains only rotary. I justified buying it on the basis it was my silver wedding anniversary and I was still showing redness on both sides of my neck.

Having used the Philishave for 2 weeks now the redness is going and it gives a super clean shave without feeling it's tearing the hair of my skin. It seems to glide over the skin. I ,ve found the trick of rotating one way and then the other does shave tricky hairs under the chin as others have testified. I am also using a shaving oil called Clarins Shaveease. Expensive but very nice. One question. Is it advisable or necessary to clean out the shaver under hot water after every shave?

I appreciate your efforts and the site for our benefit. Thanks.

You're welcome and thanks for your note, Paul.  I usually clean my shaver every week or so.  As for after shaving, I just open up the top to shake off the loose whiskers.  I hope this helps.  I wonder where Clarins Shaveease is available in North America.

From: <johnkotwicki@netzero.com>

Date: Monday, October 06, 2003 11:51 AM

Subject: TELL MR. STEEL BEARD

First of all ...this page rocks! Good job. I wanted to share my experience with you all. Back in 89 (?) I purchased my first electric - Norelco 905RX, it was a really weird feeling not having to wet my face!! The shave was not always as close as a blade (but sometimes) however I never got nicked up with the associated blood which was the best. The 905RX was nice, but not the "top of the line". In 94 (?) the batteries died on the 905RX so it gave me an excuse to buy a new "toy" -- this time the 965RX. While it had the same "micro-shave" combs & cutters, each head moved up and down independently, it had a neat LCD charge guage, plus had a more "rubber-like" casing which made it easier to grip. The 965RX was nice, but again, not the "top of the line". Well about three weeks ago I decide to go all out and buy the "top of the line" - the 8894XL. I got a brand-new one on ebay (posatage including) for $154. Not cheap at all, but much less than at Amazon. Keeping in mind that I had skipped over the "reflex" and "quadra" improvements and the latest I had used was still the "micro-razer +" lift and cut.....the 8894XL blew me away!!! 3 weeks later I still am soooooo impressed and happy with it. Yes, it's ultra-cool looking with great neat features, yes, its so easy to clean by simply rinsing under the faucet, but what really continues to impress me is the awesome shave!!! The closeness and comfort that I've grown to love with my past Norelco's x 3!! Having said that, I must say that you can not over-emphasize the importance of a "sharp" set of blades - a sharp set always seems to make the shaver work much better. To that end, I've ordered the Volco sharpeners. What the most I can loose? Hey, if it doesn't work, then I'll just replace the blades. Something tells me it will work, though. After a couple to months I'll try the sharpening them and let you all know my results. Oh, and finally, I guess TV advertising really does work. Back when I originally purchased my first Norelco, it could have just as easily been a Braun or Panosonic or Remington (I'm sure they are all fine alternatives) but I just remember growing up watch Santa sled down the hill in his Norelco (especially during football season) and figured "that's the one!!".

Keep up the Great Work on this Great Site!!

John in Crofton, MD

You're welcome and thanks for your note telling your experience with different shavers, John.  I hope you saw the return of the Norelco Santa last Christmas.

From: James A Elliott

Date: Friday, October 03, 2003 10:48 AM

Hello, Gary.

I emailed A. Speelman at Philips' Drachten factory about the recent questions at "Tell Mr. Steel Beard" of Rogers Evans and Ron Kornfeld.

Regarding the green gunk on the inside of Roger Evans' vintage 60s Philishave, A. Speelman had the following to say: "From this side the dark green gunk is unknown. It can be copper-oxide."

Regarding Ron Kornfeld's question about the resistor in his shaver, A. Speelman said this: "The component you are talking about is a safety resistor. This is a special resistor. If the resistor is defective something else is wrong with the shaver.

Please contact the service station in your area. Don't replace the resistor by yourself."

Jim Elliott

Electric Razor Rap

http://jimelliott.suddenlaunch2.com

Thanks for letting us know, Jim.  It's great to see your note on this forum.  Be sure to check out Jim's Electric Razor Rap message board, where I occasionally post a message or a reply, on the above URL.

From: "Davis Alan" <Afdavis40@aol.com>

Date: Friday, October 03, 2003 9:03 AM

Gary,

Thanks for your reply. I will try at some point to use the Norelco without pre-shave later. I went ahead and bought the Quadra action. WOW! It has an increased motor speed and slightly better torque too. Very impressed, gave a great shave. I didn't notice it taking any longer really. Maybe only a slight increase in time. Still under 3 minutes. The head/cutter assembly also seemed more refined, from an Engineering stand-point. Quite a bit nicer than my 4 year old Reflex action. Very glad I purchased it. I can't wait to clean that puppy under water. :-) Any idea what that little 7 dimple hole in the back is for? Is that the motor exhaust? :-)

Thanx again for maintaining what I consider the best Internet site on the planet!

Alan

You're welcome, Alan and thanks for the update.  I'm guessing there is a heat sink behind the holes you mention.  Looking at my Quadra with a flashlight (or electric torch depending where in the world you are), there is metal behind those little holes on the back of the shaver.  Because of the sealed construction, I believe the combination of the metal surface and the holes allow for heat dissipation, just like the heat sinks which dissipate heat inside your computer.  Any other theories or corrections are welcome, of course.  Does anyone have a Philishave/Norelco Quadra service manual?

From: Afdavis40@aol.com

Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2003 5:42 AM

I am just now making the transformation to electric razors after years and years of attempts due to the difficulty of shaving with a blade razor. I am finally making lots of headway now that I have thrown out conventional wisdom and shave completely dry, before I shower, with some AFTA pre-shave. I recall a few of your readers mentioning this in your post and I believe you yourself may have said once that you prefer shaving dry before a shower as well.

I am curious why Norelco insists on shaving after your face is "clean and dry" and not to use pre-shave considering all the people who return the razor after purchase. Why not "If washing your face and completely drying it does not work, consider this method..." My face takes a very long time to dry after I wash it. So I won't follow the advice of the brochure or the web site any longer. I am curious about your other readers comments on this issue. I did not see a survey on it, but I didn't look at each and every one.

To celebrate my new found freedom from the blade razor I am considering purchasing a new Norelco Quadra action ( the Spectra is too expensive for me). I have read though that those little holes in the Quadra action require more shaving time than that of my current Reflex action. Can anyone tell me what their experience was moving up to the Quadra from the Reflex? I may buy it anyway. I think I would really like to have two razors and one that I can wash (the Quadra) would be really cool. Thanx

Alan

P.S. Thanx again for maintaining this truely amazing web site!

You're welcome, Alan and thanks for your note.  I may be repeating what I wrote elsewhere, my pre-shave preference is for using a powder stick when I need to use a pre-shave.  My experience with pre-shave lotions have been mixed.  Some pre-shave preparations which receive very favourable comments are not readily available unless you want to get it mail order.  As to why Philips/Norelco insists that you not to use a pre-shave could be based on my own experiences.  Again, I may be repeating what I wrote elsewhere.  The disadvantage to using a pre-shave powder stick is all the powder residue which goes into the shaver.  As I have a Quadra shaver myself, which you are considering, its waterproof construction allows for easy cleaning under the faucet so that eliminates the disadvantage of using a powder stick.  As for lotions, I'll repeat what happened many years ago when I used a Philishave HS555 Rota Action shaver which uses what are now called Philishave/Norelco HQ2 replacement heads.  I'll admit that I used too much Williams Lectric Shave during a very humid Summer.  What eventually happened is that the glue which held the decorative discs onto the rotary heads got weakened so the discs actually came off the heads.  I understand the Lectric Shave has since been reformulated to prevent this from happening.  So I believe Philips/Norelco is very concerned about the pre-shave affecting either the shaver's performance or its lifespan.  As for the Quadra not shaving as fast as the Reflex Action, I believe it has to do with the holds getting only the short whiskers when you have more longer whiskers which the holes cannot catch.  The newer and more expensive Sensotec/Spectra shavers account for the Quadra's problem by adding more slots in a critical portion of the heads so the Sensotec/Spectra has more slots than holes.  The reason I got my Philishave Quadra is more for the easy cleaning than for the shaving performance, as good as it is, and I don't mind having to shave longer.  But I do find myself shaving with my older Reflex Action or Quadra Action, even that HS555 I just mentioned, when the whiskers are too long after not shaving for a day or two.  Of course, other opinions are encouraged.  I hope this helps.

From: Ans Broughton

Date: Sunday, September 28, 2003 9:26 AM

I have just found your marvellous forum and wonder if you could give me some information.

When my husband (71 yo) lost his central vision as a result of Age Related Macular Degeneration, he found it very hard to shave without cutting himself with his (ordinary) razor and would end up with blood all over his face.

Two years ago, the kids and I decided to give him an electric razor, a Philishave Coolskin HQ 6761. While it does not shave as well as the razor, he was happy with it.

Unfortunately after about 10 months, the Philishave started to make an awful noise and stopped working. We took it to the shop we bought it originally, and as they did not have replacement parts, they gave him a new one. They said that his original one-year warranty would not be extended however.

Eight months later, the same problem occurred. Philips was not interested as they indicated that they had sold the Philishave business, and suggested we take the shaver to a repair shop which we did. It was found that the heads (blades?) were cracked and would need to be replaced. This was done and it has lasted only six months as it is once more making a strange noise in spite of the fact that they had been replaced.

The razor has not been dropped, and my husband is very careful in cleaning it. He has gone back to shaving cream and disposable razors, and once again is cutting his skin.

I know that you are in the US and we are in Australia, but we seem to be getting nowhere. We can go back to the repair shop, pay another A$80 or so, and have the head replaced, but wonder if it is worth it.

Can you suggest who we may contact with this problem? I would be very grateful for your suggestions.

Many thanks and kind regards.

Ans Broughton

Perth

Western Australia

Thanks for your note, Ans.   It took me awhile to figure it out, but I realized that Philips Domestic Appliances & Personal Care has given distribution rights to market their products in the Australian market to the electrical division of Housewares International Ltd. (HWI).  HWI's URL is http://www.housewares.com.au and they also handle their own Breville, Kambrook and Ronson brands of appliances.  You may want to contact them.  I hope this helps.

From: "James Roseland" <jrose1999@hotmail.com>

Date: Sunday, September 28, 2003 8:49 AM

Dear Gary,

A quick addition to my last email about National/Panasonic shavers... I may have solved the question about the mysterious "C" designation on some model numbers.

As I was shaving this morning, I glanced at the two Panasonic nose/ear trimmers I own and noticed that the model number on one ended in "N" and the other in "NC." Both are gold in color. The only difference between the two is that the "C" unit is in a blister pack and the one without the "C" is in a box.

As I thought back on all the Matsushita shavers I've seen, I realized that this pattern holds up throughout the National/Panasonic line. For example, the current, blister-packed 8017 and 18 are marked "SC," while the virtually identical, but boxed 8019 (sold at Sharper Image) is an "N." I can't think of any exceptions to the rule.

I know this is a trivial matter, hardly worth the paragraphs I just gave it, but I thrive on trivia! I hope some of your other readers do, too.

Jim Roseland

Thanks again for the info, Jim.

From: "James Roseland" <jrose1999@hotmail.com>

Date: Saturday, September 27, 2003 10:19 AM

Dear Gary,

Thought I'd take a shot at answering the questions Howard raised in his 9/21 message. The National/Panasonic pro-curve, non-pivot shavers ES8015-8019 are "washable," but not immersible. My guess is that this is because they have an exposed socket on the bottom which receives the cord. This is unlike other shavers from Matsushita, which use induction-charging stands, and can be made fully sealed. The advantage of plugging the cord directly into the shaver is that, like higher-end Philips/Norelco shavers, they can be used either corded or cordless. And so, technically, the clerk at Sharper Image was telling the truth: the ES8019 is a"wet/dry" shaver.

As far as I can tell, the only real difference between the 8017/18/19 shavers is color (silver/blue, silver/black, gold/black). (Of course, the 8019 comes in box, while the others are sold in blister packs.) My interpretation of the Panasonic suffix-lettering system is that "N" is for gold, "S" for silver, and "A" for blue. I used to think that the "C" designation on some models had to do with trim that differed signiciantly from the main body color, but the simultaneous existence of the 8018-SC and 8019-N (the same shaver, except for body color) seems to put the kibosh on that theory.

Sharper Image is definitely a "high end" store, and their prices reflect that. The Panasonic 8019 is not exclusive to them, and can be found at other outlets for considerably less than $149. Etronics.com, for example, currently sells it for $89. The pivot-head ES8097, however, is exclusive to Sharper Image, and differs from the lower-priced 8092/95 pivoting models (known as "Lamdash" in Japan) in that it has a gloss blue body (like last year's 8080), and it has an LCD readout rather than a series of lights to show the remaining charge. The value you place on a such a readout (or on the color blue) will determine whether you are willing to pay $300 for an 8097 vs. $139-$159 for an 8092 or 8095.

I have owned the Japanese-market equivalent of the 8097 (the National ES8093, also with an LCD readout) for almost a year now (it cost about $240 at a store in the Akihabara "Electric Town" district of Tokyo), and my experience is that, despite the angled and pivoting head, it shaves no closer than older, straighter models. In fact, I've found the shave to be not as close as the one I get from my non-angled 8023, probably because the older model has a head assembly that is wider across and razor-thin blades on the cutters inside. The head assemblies on the new, angled models are slightly smaller, while the blades inside are a little wider. Of course, the pivoting models also speed up to 17.000 rpm for cleaning, but I'm not sure I see the value of that. It's not a significant time-saver.

Hope this helps.

Jim Roseland

I'm sure it does, Jim.  Thanks for the info.

From: Cwizardglick@aol.com

Date: Thursday, September 25, 2003 11:09 AM

Hi,

I have an old 1312. I still like it's shave but the motor lugs under load. Does anybody know how to fix/lubricate/overhaul this or any other older model.

Thanks,

Thomas Glick

Thanks for your inquiry, Thomas.  Lubricating the shaver could solve the problem.  Light lubricating oil should do the trick with the moving parts.  If replacement parts are needed, that could be a problem, especially with a shaver as old as yours.  There are third-party or OEM suppliers of spare parts.  That's something a shaver repair shop can tell you if they can supply the parts if necessary.  There are several shaver repair shops on line and I have links to many of them.  You could also check out the Electric Razor Rap message board which I also have a link to as that is the most active of the shaving message boards.  I hope this helps.

From: Roger Evans

Date: Thursday, September 25, 2003 3:24 AM

I recently bought a corded Philishave from about 1962 or '63. It works perfectly, but on the cord; the bit what plugs into the shaver, and also the bit what plugs into the wall has this odd dark green gunk on it. It seems to have no effect, but I was wondering is that supposed to be there; and if so, why?

Thanks for your inquiry, Roger. I remember the green gunk when I used a 1960s vintage Philips shaver way back when. I've been puzzled over what it is myself. I've also seen the gunk inside the shaver in the whisker chamber around the cams and on the hinged area of the 'flip-top' head. I'm guessing it's some sort of oxidation. You could post a message on the Electric Razor Rap at http://jimelliott.suddenlaunch2.com/index.cgi to ask the same question. I hope this helps.

From: Ron Kornfeld

Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2003 7:31 PM

thanks for the info re hs925 - called philIps directly and was told sorry no information.... I specifically need to know the value of the resistor beside the ac input (it is gray with black stripes at top and bottom but others are burned so cannot determine value) can we post a question that any one with the shaver open it up and advise of the colours of the resistor or if anyone has the information from circuit diagram, thanks, I am not convinced shaver is ready for the garbage heap

E rykornfeld@telus.net

Thanks for the reply, Ron.  You are welcome to ask any shaver repair question as well as posting in the shaver message boards such as the Electric Razor Rap to see if someone can help you out.  There are shaver repair shops on line who can also answer your question.  I hope this helps.

From: <hstone7@comcast.net>

Date: Sunday, September 21, 2003 6:54 PM

I just bought a Panasonic Linear model ES8019 from the Sharper Image for $150. They told me it was a wet/dry shaver and I have discovered it is not. That does not bother me because I really don't plan to use it in the shower.

However, I went to Panasonics website and the Linear shaver model ES8017SC is only $90. I'm wondering how the ES8017SC model differs from the ES8019 model I bought at Sharper Image. Model #ES8092NC on Panasonics website cost $150 (MSRP) and has wet/dry shaving, 30 degree angle cutting and adjustable pivot action heads. Does the ES8019 model have these features? If not, would I be better off buying Model #ES8092NC? How beneficial is the 30 degree cutting angle and adjustable pivot action? Last question: Is the Sharper Image's exclusive Panasonic $300 shaver worth it? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,

Howard

Thanks for your inquiry, Howard.  Not knowing enough about the SC and NC suffixes, I had to go by the 8000 series numbers and my quick analysis of the ES8017SC and the ES8019N Panasonic ProCurve Linear shavers show the main difference being the colour of which the 8017 has blue trim and the 8019 has black trim.  Those models do not have the pivoting head which the "Lamdash" ProCurve ES8092NC has.  I hope this helps and I also hope that the Panasonic shaver mavens reading this note can give you a more informed answer.

From: Ron Kornfeld

Date: Sunday, September 21, 2003 6:21 PM

anyone know where I can get a circuit board diagram of philishave 925 - it appears I burned out the resistor beside the battery pack/ac inupt and want to play with it to determine if I can resurrect the shaver. thanks

E rykornfeld@telus.net

Thanks for your inquiry, Ron.  You should be able to get a service manual and parts list directly from Philips Domestic Appliances & Personal Care in your country.  Just go to http://www.homeandbody.philips.com then click on "customer care" on the top of the page.  Unfortunately, there are no PDF files on the 'net for your Philishave HS925 shaver, so click on "click here to contact us" to E-mail your request to Philips DAP and follow the on screen instructions.  I hope this helps.

From: "John J.Simon" <jjsimon@historians.org>

Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2003 10:49 AM

I like Braun's "clean and charge" feature except, of course, for the expense of replacing the cartridges every month. I wonder if anyone has figured out how to duplicate the cleaning agent so I can refill myself?

Thanks for your inquiry, John.  I do recall someone may have answered your question in an old Tell Mr. Steel Beard posting, so here it is again:

From: David Dobson

Date: Saturday, November 10, 2001 7:36 PM

BRAUN SYNCHRO CLEANER SUBSTITUTE FORMULA

Hi Gary,

This is further comment to those of Yoel Jacobsen on his Braun Syncro Formula except this is more for American/Canadian readers. And it also goes a bit farther by duplicating the lemon fresh scent. This should save you a little bit, depending on how much you pay for the Alcohol vs. the best price for the cartridge refills.

Buy a bottle of "EVERCLEAR" grain alcohol (this is 95% alcohol or 190 proof available at most liquor stores)

Small bottle of lemon extract (available at any grocery store)

Directions:

Rinse out and shake out the empty cartridge a few times until there is no residue left

Air dry , or if you are in a hurry, use a hair dryer to dry the inside.

Use a measuring cup and pour approx 150 to 160 ml of alcohol (2/3 cup) into the empty cartridge

Add 5 caps of lemon extract (using the small bottle)

You now have a near duplicate mixture of the Braun Synchro cleaner. Works Great!

Regards,

D. Dobson

Thanks again, David in case you are reading this.  I hops this helps, John.

From: "Drew" <dgormanl@nd.edu>

Date: Sunday, September 07, 2003 3:46 PM

Hi Gary,

I use to always have a beard/goatee and shaved with a blade. I decided I wanted to be clean shaven but I didn't not want to shave with a blade every day because it's so hard on the skin and spending $8 on blades every week and a half just to end up in the trash was also a deterrent.

So I decided to try the Norelco Spectra 8894xl. The ease of cleaning and sensitivity control was appealing. I tried it for 1 week and it was horrible. I had ingrown hairs and a very irritated neck. So I send it back. Next I tried the Braun XP 5614. It gave a good shave with no irritation but it took me over ten minutes to shave. I bought a Remington ultra smooth razor (I am a half black but my beard hair is not too curly). I got a much faster shave with this razor. I liked this razor a lot except for the noise and the clean up. So I figured after a few months my skin had gotten use to an electric razor and decided to give the Norelco Spectra 8894xl another try. Now I love this razor. I get a fast close shave without any irritation! The razor is quiet and super easy to clean. I don't have any problems with ingrown hairs. It works great on stubble and on a few days growth.

So the 8894xl is my favorite razor. It took two tries but it was definitely worth it. The Remington ultra smooth is also a great razor but is a little noisy and the clean up is not that easy. The Braun 5416xp worked well but took too long to shave.

I'd recommend the ultra smooth to anyone you tend who get razor bumps.

Gary you've got a great site!

Drew

Thank you, Drew for the kind words and your opinions on the three shavers you mentioned.

From: Pete and Elaine Crump

Date: Saturday, September 06, 2003 2:51 PM

I recently replaced the batteries in my Norelco 5885XL but the shave capcity counter did not reset. Is there some way to get the counter to reset?

Thanks,

Pete

Thanks for your note, Pete.  Other than making sure the new batteries are fully discharged so that the counter does not function before charging up the new batteries, I cannot think of how to reset the counter.  If anyone with either a Norelco 5885XL or the identical Philishave HQ5885 as well as its NiMH counterpart, the Philishave HQ5890, who has successfully reset the shave capacity counter after replacing batteries, please let us know.

From: "David Bakin" <d.bakin@comcast.net>

Date: Saturday, September 06, 2003 2:18 PM

Gary, what a fine site you're keeping! This is a status report from a first-time user of a rotary, and a tip that may be useful to others.

After a thorough reading of your site and everyone's comments in Mr Steel Beard I ordered a Spectra 8880XL to try out, aware of the need to test for 30 days. I chose the 8880XL because a) I always wanted to try a rotary (I've been using a Braun Flex Integral for years ... and years) and the Spectra had many favorable comments, b) I wanted at least an NiMH - can't stand nicads but didn't think the premium for the lithium battery was worth it, and the 8880XL is the least expensive Spectra with NiMH, and c) my wife gave me $$$ for the shaver of my choice so I could pay for it without guilt (plus she pointed me at your website, she's terrific!). So I got it and also - based on comments on your site - a bottle of total shaving solution.

I don't know which I'm happier with: TSS or the Spectra. First on TSS: By all means, use it! I've never used a pre-shave with an electric and didn't know how easy it would be to shave with one - and the TSS feels great. The Spectra is excellent as well - very easy to get a very smooth shave by shaving against the grain. The battery lasts weeks the way I shave (compared to a lot of your correspondents I apparently have a light beard). Only troublesome area is directly beneath the nose but a few extra passes there solves that problem. I had no trouble getting used to it - went straight to the "normal" sensitivity setting with no razor burn and certainly no bleeding anywhere - but that could be due more my skin being super tough due to years of abuse with my previous, very old, electric razor.

Only issue with the Spectra: the pop-up trimmer seems flimsy and slow - it can cut your sideburn straight but after that, when you pull straight down to get the little hairs left under your new trim-line, it doesn't get any of those, no matter how hard you try or which way you move the trimmer. You have to go there with the rotary heads which is tricky.

I ordered it from www.digitalfotoclub.com and got it quickly (not one of your sponsors but the only place that was carrying the 8880XL in stock at the time).

And now the promised tip: The manual recommends that after cleaning the heads (every month) you let them dry before putting them back in. A tedious waste of time. Instead, blast each cutter and head with a compressed air duster (like you use for electronics, I usually get mine at the local computer store) - it dries the cutter & heads very quickly and gets the last stubborn bits of hair out as well. Then use the compressed air on the razor itself.

One more thing: I noticed the manual says: don't mix the cutter and heads when you clean them because "shaving performance may be adversely affected for several weeks" - well, isn't that a coincidence with the recommendation to try for 3 weeks because your skin has to "get used" to the new shaver. Makes me suspect that the 3 week adjustment period is the same 3 weeks after mixing up the cutters and heads, specifically that any set of new cutters and heads must get "worn in" against each other and until that happens you get a rough experience. Can any Norelco/Philips users confirm or deny that things get rougher for 1-2 weeks anytime you replace the heads?

-- Dave Bakin

Thanks for the tips, Dave.  As for the head replacement issue, if anyone has accidently mixed the combs and cutters after cleaning a Philishave/Norelco shaver, please let us know you immediate shaving experience and how long it takes before the combs and cutters are optimised again.

From: Gary Eide

Date: Sunday, August 24, 2003 12:11 AM

Hi Gary,

I had a Braun 5612 xp shaver that I had used for less than a year and it was losing power and needed a new foil and blades. In addition the 5612 just left too many long hairs on my neck. So I thought it was time for a change. In doing research, I found your site and it was a real help in deciding what shaver to purchase. I decided to purchase the Norelco Spectra 8894xl. Although a bit pricey I was interestned in the lithium batteries.

My experience has been very positive thus far. I have been using it for about two weeks. It shaves close and for the most part gives a comfortable shave. It was a bit rough on the neck for a while, but I tried Nivea for men on my face before I shaved and it solved the problem. So thanks very much for the site and your recommendations.

Gary Eide,

Brookfield, WI

Thanks for sharing your experience so far with your new Norelco Spectra 8894XL (aka Philishave Sensotec HQ8894) shaver, Gary.

From: Ben H

Date: Tuesday, August 19, 2003 1:43 AM

Hi, Gary.

Since this site has helped me so much in the quest for a better shave, I feel I should return the favor by adding my own comments and experiences. About 8 months ago I was using a Norelco/Philishave Quadra 6846xl and had been using that for over two years. For me, the shaves definitely needed improvement, and I was tired of seeing the inside collars of all my white shirts freckled with caked crusty crimson. So the search for a new shaver began, and the choice fell to two: the Norelco Spectra 8894xl or the Braun Flex XP 5614. First I tried the Braun and kept with it for over a month, having to keep in mind the return policy. Then I went to the Spectra and have been using that for over six months now, but don’t jump to conclusions! Here’s how I feel the two compare with each other. This should be put into two columns side by side but if not, then just match up the numbers.

Braun Flex XP 5614

Shaving Performance:

1. + Closer shave

2. + Less irritation/cuts

3. + Shorter shave time; <= 5 minutes

4. + A significant improvement over the Quadra 6846xl. Less

time needed and a much closer, comfortable shave.

5. - Messy shave; stray hairs dropped

6. + Straight line helps more with sideburns/goatee

Maintenance and Misc.:

7. + No equivalent requirement

8. + 18 months replace foil and cutterblock

9. + Impossible to overcharge ??

10. - Clean unit after each shave

11. - Discharge battery every 6 months by shaving

12. - Travel case doesn’t hold cord; cheap plastic

13. - No protective cap

Shared Issues of Both:

14. - “About every four weeks, clean the cutter

block with Braun cleaning agents.”

15. - “Put a drop of light machine oil onto the long

hair trimmer and shaver foil.” (once a month).

Slightly better because it doesn’t use an aerosol spray though.

16. - You should only shave with the cord attached

when the battery is discharged

17. - “Occasionally” use soap for cleaning

Norelco Spectra 8894xl

Shaving Performance:

1. - Not as close a shave

2. - Much more irritation/cuts

3. - Longer shave time; 5-9 minutes

4. - No significant improvement in shaving

compared to the Quadra 6846xl. Same

amount of time required, with only a tiny bit

closer shave and a little less irritation

5. + Cleaner shave; contained in the cap

6. - Round combs less effective on sideburns/goatee

Maintenance and Misc.:

7. - Once a month remove retaining frame, separate

the cutters from the combs and clean each individually

8. - 12 months replace heads

9. - Don’t overcharge/leave plugged in

10. + Clean once a week; daily optional

11. + Not required

12. + Travel case holds cord; good quality

13. + Protective cap

Shared Issues of Both:

14. - Once a month clean the combs and cutter

heads with the Norelco cleaner agent

15. - Once a month use Norelco lubricant

16. - You should only shave with the cord

attached when the battery is discharged

17. - “Dry or wipe stainless steel housing with a

towel or tissue every time you rinse the

razor to prevent scale from forming.”

And obviously the Spectra has a much fancier display, using animation and flashing graphics to show when to wash/replace the heads, minutes left, charging status ect. But much of that I could easily live without. The Braun has a low battery indicator and a status light that shows when it’s done charging. All the rest I consider to be “fluff,” nice to have but ultimately unimportant. In fact, the replace heads indicator on the Norelco struck me as being a negative. The manual described it as an alarm that would increasingly get louder and/or longer over time. Well, since I’ve seen it mistakenly tell me when to wash it (directly after being thoroughly cleaned), I don’t have great confidence in it telling me when the heads need replacing. So if that alarm were to go off and someone was getting a perfectly fine shave, it would basically harass them into buying new heads. Brilliant.

Now with the fluff aside, I should elaborate on the actual shaving performance I received from each. It seems I was expecting too much of the Spectra’s new sensitivity dial. When turned down for shaving in certain spots, it simply fails to pick up the hairs. And when it’s turned back up, it more easily cuts and irritates. So it’s a constant balancing game between the two. I was cut not even once when using the Flex while the Spectra cuts regularly. The Flex was great at picking up very short stubble and not so great for the longer hairs (ideal for the everyday shaver). The Spectra was just the opposite, great on long, but not on short (good for those that skip a day or two). And if you’re asking why I’m still using the Spectra the answer is I’m a dope for loosing the receipt!! But I’ve been thinking I should just shell out the money for another Braun, it’s worth the shave.

I wouldn’t have even considered getting the Braun if it wasn’t for this site, so thanks again, Gary. And to each their own, this was only my experience.

Ben H.

Thanks for the useful comparison of the Braun Flex XP model 5614 and the Norelco Sensotec model 8894XL (aka Philishave Sensotec model HQ8894) shavers, Ben.

From: "Nigel Jones" <planetf1@worldonline.co.uk>

Date: Monday, August 18, 2003 8:25 AM

I need a new shaver to replace my older Philips double action which no longer cuts well, and on which the cogs have gone.

I've narrowed the choice to 3

8850 sensotec (115 UKP)

7850 quadra (86 UKP)

6890 older quadra with led etc (100 UKP)

I shave every day, no beard etc - no sensitive skin, so do you think I'm likely to benefit much from the sensotec - it does seem they've modified the heads -- how does the closeness compare with the comfort control? They imply probably the older quadras are similar to the sensotec normal setting?

I'm inclined to go one of the cheaper options, but wonder if I'll regret the superior cutting capability of the sensotec?

Thanks for your enquiry, Nigel. The shaving performance of both generations of Philishave/Norelco Quadra shavers are identical.  So within the Quadra line, I would choose by price and/or features knowing that the old 6000 series Quadra are at closeout prices nowadays.  The Sensotec (called Spectra in the USA) has an improved version of the closeness/comfort adjustment which users are telling me are useful.  The combination of holes and slots are improved to feature more slots than holes to solve to improve shaving performance and the improved Lift & Cut heads lift the whiskers higher before cutting compared to the regular Lift & Cut models.  The HQ6890 you mentioned with the display is one recharging feature I like which tells you how much of a charge you have left so you will know when to expect to recharge the shaver.  You should only recharge the shaver when it is fully discharged to maximise battery life.  The HQ7850 and HQ8850 do not have charge level indicators.  I've received more than one user who compared the Quadra and Sensotec.  The first one I found is Herman's note of  Date: Friday, June 06, 2003 12:58 PM of which I pasted the date and time here and you can use the search feature of your browser to save time in finding Herman's note.  He prefers the Sensotec shaver.  I hope this helps.

From: Bart Molenaar

Date: Sunday, August 17, 2003 11:09 AM

Hello,

3 months ago I bought a Braun freeglider to replace my older Braun shaver which worked very well but after 4 years had a short circuit in the electrical part. It is a nice shaver with exelent performance on batteries. 2 weeks minimum after full load. The applicator works fine and gives a nice feeling and easy sliding affect. Consider the extra costs of the refills which only last about 2 weeks and are not very sheep.

But due to this applicator who resides next to one of the 2 shaving blades the overall shaving performance is reduced in compare to my older Braun shavers. Because the side part of one shaving blade is covered by this applicator, and the applicator and slidecontrol is quit wide, it also makes it more difficult to reach the hearline or certain areas. The only solution is to continously rotate the shaver to make use the shave blade without the applicator.

For owners with the same problem and don't have the return/moneyback option: I personally did a modification and almost got back the old performance and still remaining the glider function. You can make the same modification to test if you get the same improvements I have, because they are reversable. All parts to be removed/modified are also replaceble so don't fear that you will loose garantee or damadge you shaver forever. But all modification and/or removing is of course own resposibility , and done wrong can effect garantee .

Part 1 Modifying the applicator.

Remove the applicator. (see the user instructions)

On the applicator with a knife cut away the white part which sticks out of the blue holder.

This is soft material so no excesive force is needed.

The applicator is a part of the shaving conditioner refill kit so you have some spare ones.

Part 2 Removing the metal slidecontrol (with the max-min setting)

The slidecontrol is part of the shavingblade and is hold onto the blade by a tiny white plastic notch.

Therefore remove the shaving blade (see the user instructions) and locate on the inside of this shaving blade the white notch.

Now from the outside you can seen the same notch just on the lower left corner of the slidecontrol when it is in the minimum position. Push the notch from the outside with a small needle towards the inside.

Remove the notch from the inside and remove the slidecontrol together with the slider.

Install the shaving blade and you finished.

Keep the parts in a safe place so you can install them whenever needed.

Test if the shaving performance has improved.

If not install the slide control again in reverse order and replace the modified appicator by a new one, which is included in the shaving conditioner refill kit.

If it performs better and you don't like the look without the slidecontrol you can also remove 4mm of the top part of this slidecontrol, which is actualy made of plastic with a metal look painting.

Re-install the slidecontrol and slider and put back the notch to hold all parts in place, and your finished.

If you want to get back to complete original after the last modification you only need to buy a new shaving blade which include all parts .

Bart

Thanks for the tips, Bart.

From: Philip Sternklar

Date: Saturday, August 16, 2003 9:53 AM

PANASONIC WARNING!!!

I purchased a Panasonic ES8092NC from Amazon.com and in 2 weeks the “comfort selector” knob broke. I called Panasonic to find out how to get a repair/replacement under warranty. I was told I do not have a warranty because I did not purchase the shaver through an “authorized” distributor. They suggested I return the shaver to Amazon and buy one DIRECTLY THROUGH PANASONIC. I am outraged at this scam. I will return the shaver as Panasonic would not even fix it for a fee. I will NOT be buying another Panasonic product. Buyer beware!!!

____________________

Philip N. Sternklar

psternkl@nycap.rr.com

____________________

Thanks for your note and I'm sorry about the problem you're having with Panasonic shavers, Philip.

From: Nick Palmer

Date: Friday, August 08, 2003 3:52 PM

Deer Steel,

Having suffered from a shariving rash around my neck for the past 2 years non stop i decided to fork up the cash and pay out for a sesnotec electric razor. Took it home and used it for the first tiem the other night, i was told to not use anything pre shave,a nd just shave dry, useing stright strokes. I used it and low and behold its left my neck area with a much worse rash than i have had in the last 2 years. Since it was the first ytime i used it, im assumeing that my skin needs to get used to it, but would be something i am doing wrong myself, or has other ppl had such problems when they first started useing the sensotec series. Any help u have on this would be great,

Kind Regards

Nick

Thanks for your note, Nick.  It typically takes three weeks to a month for your face to become fully accustomed to the new shaver.  If anyone can share their initial experience with either a Philishave Sensotec or Norelco Spectra shaver to help Nick out, please do so.

From: Jim Misonville

Date: Tuesday, August 05, 2003 11:01 AM

Dear STEEL,

I bought the top line 5000 Philishave the same time as the release of the COOL SKIN. I first purchased the COOLSKIN and returned it because of portability and clean up issues.

I purchased the razor at THE BAY, bit I didn’t like the hard case you use to sell with the shavers. The sales lady let me keep the neoprene case from the COOL SKIN with my 5000 (similar to 5866).

I picked up a hitch hiker 2 weeks after I bought the razor and I guess he needed it more than I, so I have been forced to fire up my old BRAUN.

Quite a few years back you had a FATHER’S DAY SPECIAL, and you released a limited 5000 model with a conforming leather case. The new style cases are a definite improvement over the hard plastic cases from your previous models, but don’t fit in our shaving kits( you know after shave tooth brush and other guy stuff). I like the 8000’s leather case but it’s still too big and I don’t like what you have done with the charger cord. You need to go back to the simple generic 1 cord fits all style.

Any chances of some new releases in the near future Thanks THE REAL STEEL BEARD

You're welcome, Jim and thanks for your note.  But it's not me you should be talking to.  I'm just a regular person, not employed by Philips or any other shaver company, doing this as a hobby for shaver users.  The people you should talk to are the ones at Philips Electronics Ltd's Domestic Appliances and Personal Care division over at 281 Hillmount Road in Markham, Ontario, Canada.  I could tell you're from Canada because you bought the shaver from a Hudson's Bay Company store (aka The Bay).  Here's a URL for the Philips Canada customer service people.  It's http://www.feedback.philips.com/feedback.php?s=ca   I hope this helps.

From: "Thomas Künzi" <thomas.kuenzi@freesurf.ch>

Date: Friday, August 01, 2003 8:14 AM

Hi Gary,

I have an old shaver Braun micron vario 3 universal from 1990. When the Ni-Cad batteries didn't keep the charge, I asked the local shaver shop for a quote to replace the batteries. They wanted $124, which was way too much.

I ordered the rebuilding set (Ni-Hy) and replaced the batteries myself. It cost me $36 which is acceptable. I am proud that I could perform the repair myself.

Kind regards from Switzerland,

Thomas

Thanks for letting us know, Thomas.  Thank you as well for telling me in your reply the battery supplier's web site which is http://www.telion.ch   The Swiss web site is in French and German in case anyone else wants to see it.  I've received other comments and inquiries from those who have or want to replace their own rechargeable shaver batteries.

From: "Anthony M. Kassir M.D."

Date: Friday, August 01, 2003 2:47 AM

Gary,

Thank you for this wonderful web site and this discussion forum. It is the most informative electric shaver discussion forum I've found on the web so far. I have a question to ask you and/or your readers.

I recently switched to a Norelco 8894XL Spectra after years of using Remington shavers like the MS3. I'm experiencing some neck irritation in the first week, but I'm giving it time because it's such a beautiful shaver and I hope to keep it. I began to consider using pre-shave products since buying the Norelco.

I have a question about using pre-shave preparations with this Norelco shaver. Norelco recommends against using any kind of pre-shave preparation with the Spectra and their other dry shavers. To quote their customer service agent's email, "Norelco does not recommend the use of any kind of pre shave lotions or gel because it may affect the quality of the shave and also the chemicals in the gel or the lotion may damage the blades and reduce the sharpness of the blades."

However, because of the neck irritation and also the difficulty of shaving in humid conditions, I began to experiment with Williams Lectric Shave Ultra Pre-shave Gel, which you're supposed to let dry before shaving. My shave is much more comfortable when using this product, but it doesn't say anywhere on the bottle whether it is safe to use with a dry shaver.

So I'd like to draw from your experience or knowledge on this topic. Can pre-shave products like the Williams Lectric Ultra gel actually dull or damage the blades (or any other parts) of dry shavers like the Norelco Spectra? Do such pre-shave products impair the functioning of the shaver in any way? Or are such pre-shave products safe to use, despite Norelco's recommendation? The Williams gel seems to be a good solution for my problems so far, but I'm concerned about Norelco's statement. I really don't want to damage my shaver.

Thanks,

Anthony M. Kassir, M.D.

Thanks for your inquiry, Dr. Kassir.  I can tell you my experience with preshaves and dry shavers.  I currently use, when weather conditions require its use, the Remington FaceSaver powder stick.  It does a good job of improving shaver performance with minimal problems with the shaver itself.  The only disadvantage is the powder left inside the shaver. But because your Norelco Spectra (aka Philishave Sensotec) is waterproof for easy cleaning under the faucet, that wipes out the disadvantage of using the powder stick.  The Philishave Quadra I use is also waterproof for cleaning purposes only.  As for the most interesting experience in using a preshave lotion, I may have mentioned it already but several years ago I use using the regular version of Williams Lectric Shave with a Philishave HS555 Rota Action corded shaver which I was using at the time.  The weather was hot and maybe I use using more of the Lectric Shave than I should have.  Eventually, the decorative discs on the top of the heads got loose and came off.  Apparently, the glue which attached the discs to the heads was weakened by regular Lectric Shave.  I understand that Lectric Shave has since been reformulated to correct that problem.  In case you didn't know, Philishave and Norelco shavers are one and the same.  I encourage others who have their own ideas and experience with pre-shaves to post them here.

From: "Bo Williams" <williams@hiwaay.net>

Date: Thursday, July 31, 2003 2:28 AM

Hi Gary,

I'm responding to the fellow who asked about the Spectra and neck irritation.

I used a Reflex Action for six years, but moved to a Spectra when the LCD module in my 5885 died a few months ago and it didn't make good financial sense to fix it. I liked the Reflex Action, but I'm loving the Spectra. It's much better at getting those nasty ingrowns that turn swollen and painful if you don't stay on top of them. And, it's significantly quieter.

My neck is somewhat sensitive as well. I find that if I go several days without shaving at all--vacation, long weekend, etc.--then it is possible to irritate my neck somewhat with the Spectra. It's not painful, but can be red in spots for several hours afterward. Used daily or even every other day, I don't have the problem at all. Hope this helps!

Bo Williams - williams@hiwaay.net

http://hiwaay.net/~williams/

I'm sure it does, Bo.  Thanks for telling your good experience with your Norelco Spectra (aka Philishave Sensotec) shaver.

From: "Elchanan Rappaport" <erappaport@lynxpn.com>

Date: Thursday, July 24, 2003 7:45 PM

Hi,

More power to you for your public service.

My question: I'm leaning toward a Norelco Spectra, but I know I've got an easily irritatable neck, and I don't want to bother with pre-shave. Have any users with sensitive necks had positive Spectra experiences to balance the concerns I've read below? (or would I be wise to avoid it?)

Thanks,

Elchanan

Thanks for your inquiry, Elchanan.  I'm encouraging anyone who uses a Norelco Spectra or Philishave Sensotec (they are one and the same) and can answer Elchanan's questions to please post it here.  I hope this helps.

From: Axel Bamberger

Date: Thursday, July 24, 2003 3:39 PM

I have the problem of in-growing hairs after each shave. It was getting that bad that I am now exclusively using the long hair trimmer for shaving which leaves a stopple but prevents hairs from in growing. Is there a better way of shaving? Has anyone made experiences with the new Remington ES-1000 Ultra Smooth (see http://www.shavercentre.com/es1000.html)?

Many thanks in advance!

Thanks for your inquiry, Axel.  I'm encouraging anyone who uses a Remington ES-1000 Ultra Smooth shaver or who has a tip on how to beat the ingrown hair problem when shaving to reply here.  I hope this helps.

From: "Paul Miyashiro" <pmiyashiro@comcast.net>

Date: Sunday, July 20, 2003 3:50 PM

Hi Gary,

I'd like to comment on Jeff R.'s question. After reading your Tell Mr. Steelbeard posts for the last couple of years, I took the advice of one of your readers and bought a Spectra 8890 on eBay for almost half of the retail price. I took the advice of another one of your readers who used the Total Shaving Solution (TSS) with their Spectra and used it with TSS using the directions for a blade.

Since the Spectra is waterproof enough to be rinsed under the faucet, it can easily handle water and TSS on the face. After a shower, I apply three drops of TSS to my hands and spread it over my beard. Add water to keep the areas to be shaved wet, and shave with the Spectra.

After shaving, you can just dry your face and the residual TSS keeps your skin soft and comfortable (and the slightly mentholated feeling feels great!). If you want, you can apply a drop of TSS on your hands, add a little water and use it as an aftershave.

No, I don't work for them and the ideas above came from fellow readers last year. I just ordered another bottle of TSS at www.totalshavingsolution.com.

Thanks for a great website.

Regards,

Paul

You're welcome, Paul and thanks for the tip about using the Total Shaving Solution pre-shave with a Philishave/Norelco Sensotec/Spectra model following your instructions.

From: "qnakamura" <qnakamura@mte.biglobe.ne.jp>

Date: Saturday, July 12, 2003 12:01 PM

I am looking for battery for Philishave HQ5830.

Where can I get it from?

How much?

How long will it take?

I can install it by myself.

I tried usual Ni-MH battery sold on shop.

But the charge circuit does not work well.

It seems like the charge circuit does not fit recent Ni-MH battery.

Best regards.

Kyuichiro Nakamura

Yokohama Japan

qnakamura@mte.biglobe.ne.jp

Thanks for your inquiry, Yokohama.  Because this is a hobby web site, I can only give the suggestions I know of.  It is possible to install a replacement set of NiMH batteries as long as it's designed for your Philishave HQ5830 shaver.  You will need to be skilled in using a soldering iron to replace the batteries.  I would suggest contacting Philishave of Japan through their web site at http://www.dap.philips.co.jp/philishave/index.html about obtaining a replacement battery pack.  I hope this helps.

From: "Perry Papantonis" <pcpapant@yahoo.com>

Date: Saturday, July 12, 2003 8:41 AM

Just completed a small test over the last three months that you may find interesting.

I wanted to compare several preshave applications and several shavers -- I used each of the preshave applications with each of the shavers and used each shaver exclusively for a 1-month period.

On the pre-shave, I used a powder shave stick, Williams Electric Shave (gel and liquid), Parks pre/aft, King of Shaves oil, and Dermalogica's natural silicone pre shave. For me, the Parks pre/aft and Dermalogica Professional Shave oil provided the closest shaves and easiest clean-up with absolutely no irritation.

In addition, I compared three shavers -- Panasonic 8095NC (Lamdash model), Norelco Spectra 8894XL, and a Grundig 8875. Although I am skeptical of the claims made by manufactures that one's beard requires time to get used to a new shaver, I used each shaver exclusively for 1 month and alternated pre-shave applications.

Findings: The Norelco provided the best shave by a long shot -- only issues were: (1) the side burn area is hard to shave straight (true of all rotary shavers) and (2) the pop-up trimmer is flimsy. Otherwise, the Norelco provided the closest, most comfortable shave of any electric I have every used and was the clear winner. In addition, the Spectra does a great job in the neck area without a lot irritation (even on the closest setting).

Anyway, hope this helps.

PS Family members got early Christmas presents as I gave the Panasonic and Grundig away.

PSS Great site!!

Perry

You're welcome, Perry and I'm sure this will help.  Thanks for the product comparisons preferring the Parks pre/aft and Dermalogica Professional Shave oil pre-shave preparations as well as the Norelco Spectra (aka Philishave Sensotec) shaver.

From: <nick.hand@kwp.com.au>

Date: Sunday, July 06, 2003 11:05 PM

Hi Gary

I'd like to invite any Tell Mr Steel Beard readers who use or have tried a Braun Freeglider to share their views and comments about this shaver. My old man asked me the other day whether I knew anything about these models. He is looking at replacing an old Braun Flex Integral (which I think I gave him many years ago), and saw an ad for the Freeglider which I believe is just about to be released in Australia. He thought if there is enough positive feedback he would wait for this one to come out before making a decision on a new shaver.

Thanks Gary, and thank you in advance to those Braun users out there.

Nick Hand

You're welcome Nick.  I'm glad to help out.  Thanks for your new inquiry to Electric Shaver Page readers.

From: "Tx Gent" <txgentleman@hotmail.com>

Date: Tuesday, July 01, 2003 2:59 PM

Hi again, Gary,

Thanks for posting my first note. Since you mentioned that you use a pre-shave powder,  I wanted to ask if you have to wash your face after shaving? I've found that I get my best shaves after I shower, and I am really hoping that I can find a pre-shave that wouldn't require that I re-wash and clean my face after shaving. This is one of my concerns with the Williams Lectric Shave. Also, does the pre-shave powder effect the life of the cutters/combs?

Any help or information would be VERY appreciated !!!

Jeff R.

Thanks for your new note, Jeff.  I use the powder stick after I wash my face.  When shaving, most of the powder goes inside the shaver.  I have no need to wash my face again after shaving.  However, I have to shake off the powder from the shaver after each use.  I give the shaver a through cleaning every week.  As I usually use a waterproof shaver, I rinse the shaver under the faucet (after unplugging the cord, of course).  If the shaver is NOT waterproof, there are cleaning solutions and/or cleaning machines available to clean the shaver heads.  As long as the shaver is cleaned often, it should not affect the life of the cutters and combs.  I hope this helps.

From: <CHR71@aol.com>

Date: Saturday, June 28, 2003 3:38 PM

Mr. Steel Beard,

First, thank-you for your work and effort. This site is both fun and filled with information I can trust, thank you. I use both blade and electric. Usually blade in the morning and electric for the evening and when I'm on the run. I was using a Braun # 5586 until the batteries died. I replaced it with a Grundig Roltronic Pro #8835. Excellent features and construction, but expensive and not as comfortable as my Braun # 5586.

No matter how I tired I managed to irritate my skin with the Grundig. Unfortunately the Grundig was lost. After reading I decided to try a Braun again, # 7526. After 2 weeks, I've found it to give a close, comfortable shave, with minimum irritation. Good features and nice construction. The neck area is still a bit of a problem but with what I've learned here I might have it licked. Also since I use it on the run, I got a factory reconditioned unit. Razor, cord, brush and soft vinyl case for $30 with shipping. Base unit is not included but there is still a 2 year factory warranty.

P.S. Shavers.com has the Braun cleaning unit # SCC1 for $ 49.95 in the U.S.

Thanks again,

TJ

You're welcome, TJ and thanks for your note.

From: "Tx Gent" <txgentleman@hotmail.com>

Date: Friday, June 27, 2003 11:13 AM

Hi Gary,

I have just recently joined the ranks of electric shaver users, having received a Norelco Spectra 8894xl for my birthday. My father-in-law gave it to me, and recommended that I use a good preshave with it. I've been using Williams "lectric shave", and I just saw the post from Marty, so I thought I would write too. Has anyone used the new Williams "gel" pre-shave, and if so what are their thoughts? The bottle says it contains aloe, does that mean you can just leave it on after shaving? Is it an improvement over the traditional "lectric shave", which I'm finding dries out my skin even if I rinse it off after shaving. I've considered using a pre-shave powder stick, but I'm worried that the powder might wear the shaving cutters out quicker, or clog them up. I find that I get my best results if I shave after showering and so would really like to find a pre-shave that I could use without having to rinse/wash my face all over again after shaving.

Any suggestions from you, or my fellow faithful readers, would be VERY appreciated !!!

Jeff R.

Thanks for your note, Jeff.  I tried out the Williams Lectric Shaver Ultra Gel and I felt disappointed by it.  Maybe it's because I use pre-shave preparations when it's too humid not to.  It didn't make the shaver glide on my face as smoothly in humid conditions as my Remington FaceSaver powder stick which I usually use in humid conditions.  Of course, other opinions are appreciated.  BTW, for those who are curious, "Alcohol Denat." which I believe is denatured alcohol is the second ingredient listed after water on the Lectric Shave Ultra Gel.  I hope this helps.

From: Mattybumpkin@aol.com

Date: Tuesday, June 24, 2003 10:47 PM

I currently use a Spectra and have been using Williams "Lectric" Shave pre-shave. However, I am thinking that I would rather use a pre-shave that doesn't contain alcohol. Can you provide some names? I am aware of Anthony Logistics but was wondering what else is out there for electric razor pre-shaves. Thanx.

Regards,

Matty

Thanks for your note, Matty.  Last April's Survey Page questions were about pre-shave preparations.  As the questions mentioned nothing about alcohol content, I decided to try Google which showed that Ultimate Shave, Magic and Total Shaving Solution had no alcohol.  They may be others.  I use Remington's FaceSaver powder stick which has no alcohol either.  If anyone else knows of other alcohol free pre-shave preparations, please let us know.  I hope this helps.

From: <joce@spire.com>

Date: Sunday, June 22, 2003 10:16 PM

Remington MicroScreen 3 TCT MS3 1000

Mr. Steel,

The problem with my husband's razor is the pop up Trimmer when you press this blade back down, the Trimmer will not lock down to close properly. When you open up the top to the razor, it appears that a small plastic stick-like part goes between the Trimmer and wraps around the first cutter blade. Is there a place where you can purchase this tiny plastic part or any others that work with this particular assembly.

Please advise.

Thank you,

George's wife

Thanks for your inquiry.  Remington's own web site can help you.  If you live in the USA or Canada, here is a URL to zero in on a nearby Remington repair location.  It's http://findlocation.com/remington/default.htm   They could have the part you need.  Of course, you can also contact Remington at http://www.remington-products.com/usa/customercare/index.html   I hope this helps.

From: David Feltner

Date: Friday, June 20, 2003 11:25 AM

Hi Mr. Steel Beard,

I just recently bought a Norelco 5810XL. Being the curious type I took it apart to see what the power source is. It is single AA NimH cell but there are no markings as to the capacity. Do you or does anyone else know what the capacity of the battery might be? I'm guessing it's considerably less than the 2100mAh AA cells that are commonly available right now for digital cameras. That being the case I would like to replace mine even though it would void the warranty. The gains in shave time would be worth it IMO and the internal battery charge circuity is peak detection (not timed), so it should charge fine. Best regards,

-Dave

Thanks for your note, Dave.  I do not recommend replacing NiMH batteries with NiCads or vice versa.  The electronics for the rechargeable shavers are designed for the batteries that are inside the shaver so using a different type of battery pack would screw up the electronics as the recharging characteristics of the two types of batteries are different.  NiCads have a voltage curve characteristic which determines when to finish charging which NIMH cells do not have.  So, needless to say, NiCads and NiMH cells are not interchangeable.  There are web sites which sell replacement rechargeable batteries, but I have not found one listed which had your model.  NiMH batteries are more common in shavers sold in Europe as opposed to North America because of environmental laws in Europe which require the less toxic NiMH rechargeables.  You could contact the battery shops on line to find out if they offer the NiMH battery pack for your Norelco 5810XL shaver.  I hope this helps.

POSTSCRIPT DATED JUNE 24:  Jim Elliott at the Electric Razor Rap received the following from Philips and wanted me to forward it here:

Dear Mr. Elliott,

I received your request concerning the use of a 2100 mAh battery.

The battery cell we use is a NiMh 1100 mAh.

The electronics we use to manage the recharging and discharging of the battery is custom made for this type of battery.

Do not use another type of battery this may damage the shaver electronics or battery.

Only use the battery as recommended by Norelco.

If you still have questions feel free to ask.

Kind Regards, A. Speelman

Address:

Philips BV

Development Quality Department

P.O. Box 20100

9200 CA Drachten

The Netherlands

(end of pasted letter)  Thanks for the letter, Jim.

From: <nick.hand@kwp.com.au>

Date: Thursday, June 19, 2003 9:08 PM

Gary

There have been a few postings to Tell Mr Steel Beard going back and forth, about the best way to use the Philishave Sensotec. I'm happy to see the comment I made about the best way (I've found) of getting at the upper lip has helped a few people; I'd like to add some more comments to the discussion if I may. I have been using the Sensotec 8894 for about 6 months now and still find it to be the best shaver I have used.

The Norelco website suggests in their shaving tips section to wash your face first. I am used to this from my days of using a Panasonic wet & dry and find it really does soften the the whiskers and make them easier to cut. What it also seems to do is push the hair shaft up out of the follicle slightly (apparently the hair shaft swells with the application of hot water); immediately after shaving I can feel a very very light amount of stubble but in 15 minutes or so when, I guess, the whiskers have dried out and the hair shaft has subsided back into its 'normal' position, my face feels completely smooth.

My other tip is to use a shaving oil as a pre shave. The Norelco website doesn't recommend this, but my shaves are literally 100% better when using it. I used to use one of the alcohol based pre-shave lotions, but the alcohol tended to dry out my sensitive skin. I'm currently using 'Professional Shave' from Dermalogica, but I can also highly recommend any of the 'King of Shaves' oils.

The positives of the oil are the shaver glides even more smoothly over the face and neck, it softens the whiskers even further (I think the oil also tends to act as a barrier, keeping some of the water in the hair shaft - even after drying your face) & left on the skin after shaving (just rinse or towel off any excess), it keeps the skin soft and feeling comfortable throughout the day; those that suffer from in-grown hairs may benefit most from this.

The downsides are the extra step involved in applying the oil, extra expense, and shaver maintenance becomes a priority as the oil tends to accumulate and needs to be rinsed out with hot water every day.

I might also add my shaving time is cut by about half following this method.

If you're interested in the best shave possible (and are willing to try just about anything - and judging by some of the postings on the number of shavers people have tried, many of you are), the method I use might be worth a go.

Regards

Nick Hand

Thanks for the additional tips on getting a better shave with the Philishave Sensotec and Norelco Spectra shavers, Nick.

From: "James Hane" <jhane@nogales.edu.co>

Date: Thursday, June 19, 2003 6:22 PM

For the past several years, I have used Panasonic wet/dry shavers in the shower with great satisfaction and no problems except that I've never bought one that has lasted more than two years.

However, I recently moved to Bogotá, Colombia, and almost as soon as I got here, my Panasonic shaver went bad. So, I bought another one in Bogotá. It lasted about five months. I bought yet another, which is dead at the ripe old age of three months.

I took the first one that I purchased here to the Panasonic repair facility, and they refuse to repair it, saying that I had obviously held it underwater because there was water deep inside the razor. They dismissed my claim that I had obviously done no such thing.

My theory is that the airtight seals in these razors lose their integrity when they move 8,000 feet up into the Andes, allowing water to enter their "private" parts.

Do you think my theory holds water (hee hee) and can you recommend a razor that won't die on me in Bogotá? I wish the Panasonics were as reliable as they are comfortable and effective.

Also, can you recommend a wet/dry linear shaver (Norelco just didn't work for me when I tried years ago) that is more reliable than a Panasonic?

Thanks, James Hane

Thanks for your inquiry, James.  Philishave/Norelco only has one line of shavers designed for wet/dry use which is their Cool Skin/Advantage shavers which use the Nivea For Men lotion in the built-in dispenser.  I've received mixed reviews on these shavers.  Philips' other waterproof shavers are NOT designed for wet/dry use.  Their Sensotec/Spectra and Quadra shavers are waterproof for cleaning purposes only.  I was told that the shaving performance is better when used dry.  I'm puzzled that in high elevations, Panasonic's wet/dry shavers let water in.  I don't know if its the air pressure inside the sealed shaver or another factor.  Can anyone clue us in?  I recall seeing a Philishave Quadra commercial from Japan when they first came out in which the shaver was dumped in a pitcher of ice water.  If that doesn't convince anyone that the Quadra shavers are waterproof, I don't know what would.  As for wet/dry linear shaver recommendations, I'll let others try and give you suggestions. I hope this helps.

From: "Dennis Paish" <dpaish@shaw.ca>

Date: Thursday, June 19, 2003 12:13 AM

Greetings,

I own a Philishave 925 and the battery packs is dead. Do you know the DC voltage of the combined battery pack so I can purchase and install new ones?

Thanks.

Dennis Paish

Thanks for your inquiry, Dennis.  Using Google, the first matching web site which had what you needed was http://abtecparts.com/PHILISHAVE%20BATTERIES.htm which mentioned that the corresponding battery pack is two AA size batteries with solder connections, 2.4 volts, 700mah.  I hope this helps.

From: Cline, Roy

Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2003 12:00 PM

Hi again, Gary!

I've just read the excellent responses to my "how to use a Norelco Specta" questions, both from you and Herman. Thanks to you both!! I don't know about all the other Norelco users out there, but they are all great suggestions to me! I wanted to write back, and add just a few comments.

Herman, my beard is very heavy, with thick straight hair over very sensitive skin.

As far as my upper lip, I have seen improvement since reading (and following) the post recommending using both clockwise and counter-clockwise motions, but I still have trouble getting the little bit of hair/stubble directly beneath my nose. I am also finding that the shave on my upper lip isn't quite as close as on the rest of my face, the "stubble feeling" appears here first after shaving. When I asked about how to shave below the jaw, I don't think I did a very good job of asking my question. I was referring to the skin area between the jaw-bone itself and the "adams apple", the area that moves when you swallow. (sorry, don't know a better way to describe it!) I seem to have real problems getting the hair in this area to enter the slots and holes on the Spectra's shaving heads easily.

A friend told me yesterday that the Norelco "help line" told him that the best way to judge how hard to press the shaver against your face was: "when done correctly, you should not see the skin move at all when the shaver goes over it"......that seems a bit on the 'light' side to me? Also, does it really help to stretch the skin when shaving? How does it impact the shave?

Lastly, considering summer weather here in Dallas, what success are other readers experiencing with either a pre-shave powder, or the new pre-shave gel ? Any preferences or recommendations? I've read that the new gel contains aloe, does it have to be rinsed off after shaving, or should it be left on as a sort of "post shave" skin treatment??

As always, Gary, thanks...........this site ROCKS !!!!!!!!

Roy Cline

You're welcome, Roy and thanks for the new reply about the Norelco Spectra (aka Philishave Sensotec) shaver.

From: "Barduca, Don (D.T.)" <dbarduca@visteon.com>

Date: Monday, June 16, 2003 1:23 PM

Mr. Steel Beard!,

I found your forum quite helpful on deciding whether to buy a new Panasonic "Lamdash" model or to simply replace the battery in my Norelco 5885XL reflex action razor. I replaced the battery in my Norelco by the way, as most posts on your forum don't think the Reflex action models have been improved upon much, if any, by the newer Spectra models (Most seem to have thought the 'in between' Quadra models a flop from what I read). And since I am used to the rotary action of the Norelco I decided against the Panasonic line. Anyways, I wanted to return the favor of information by giving some on the Panasonic models I researched.

The ES8092NC and ES8095NC are the same except for color. The ES8095NC is made to appear more elegant/rich, but is still the same materials and function. The ES8097 is the U.S.A.'s flagship model, and provides an LCD screen built in and is sold exclusively by the Sharper Image (www.sharperimage.com), but at a whopping $299. The ES8097's color is a metallic blue. I have not been able to pin down what the ES8096 offers, if there is one. ES8093 is Japan's LCD screen version of the ES8097. And of course the European/Japanese models came out first. I hope this help's some of your readers out.

Thanks again!

Don Barduca

You're welcome, Don and thanks for the info.

From: "David or Cindy Braak" <dbraak@cablespeed.com>

Date: Sunday, June 15, 2003 9:48 PM

I purchased a Philishave 6425 a couple years ago after reading your recommendation on this web site. I'm living in the U.S. and am finding it difficult to get replacement heads. Is it possible to use heads from the Norelco HQ6 Quadra Action Tripleheader?

Thanks for your question, David.  The heads for the Philishave and Norelco shavers are completely identical.  The HQ6 heads (as with the other heads for the HQ series) will work with all Philishave and Norelco models of the same product line.  So the Norelco HQ6 heads work fine with the Philishave HQ6425 Quadra shaver both you and I have.

From: HERMAN

Date: Friday, June 13, 2003 2:35 PM

Hello Gary,

I just saw Roy Cline's questions concerning shaving techniques using the Norelco Spectra Razor. He brought up some excellent points that warrant further discussion.

1. How hard to press-

For me, just enough pressure to start the movement of the floating heads. This can be visualised by pressing on the floating head with your finger. This is the kind of pressure to use on your face. In general, lighter pressure is better because it results in less irritation. Pressing harder doesn't really give me a closer shave.

2. Straight movements vs Circular.

For me, straight strokes work best in most areas of the face with some notable exceptions. The sides of the face and chin are easiest. Most of my time is spent doing the neck area where I use straight strokes in a couple of different directions followed by a circular motion to catch the odd strays. In general, it takes me 2 minutes to do the neck and 1 minutes to do the rest.

3. Shaving against the grain-

This is the key to using electric razors because shaving aginst the grain channels the hair into the head to be cut. Shaving with the grain just presses down on the hair so it never enters the head. By moving the razor EXACTLY against the grain gives you the best cut. I find rotaries to more forgiving than foils here.

4. Shaving upper lip-

There was a post a while back suggesting a clockwise circular motion followed by an anti-clockwise circular motion. This technique works great for me.

Jaw line-

This was always a troublesome area for me until the introduction of the Reflex action line. What I do is hug the jaw with the razor ( taking advantage of the reflex heads) and move it straight down the jawline, followed by brushing strokes aginst the grain or a circular motion along the jawline. Violla, super smooth in no time..

My beard is of medium thickness and slightly curly but generally grows in a uniform pattern except for the neck and jaw area. I'm using a Norelco Spectra 8825 ( awesome razor ). Roy brought up some excellent questions and I would also like to see some feedback from other uses as to what techniques work for them. It would be helpful if they also mention the beard type and razor they use.

Herman

Thanks for the tips, Herman.

From: "Peter Campbell" <peter00@myrealbox.com>

Date: Friday, June 13, 2003 2:21 PM

Do you know where I might be able to buy the BRAUN Clean&Charge unit (SCC1), for the Syncho line of shaver (models 75XX)?

I am only looking for the clean and charge unit.

Thank you.

Thanks for your inquiry, Peter.  I checked out Google and found one on line shop in Toronto which offers only the SCC1 unit, Arora Electric, at the URL http://www.aroraelectric.com/prsnl_shavers_mens.htm and the price, as I write this, in Canadian dollars is $69.95.  I hope this helps.

From: Andrew Kranjc

Date: Thursday, June 12, 2003 10:10 PM

In response to the question about the type of batteries the Panasonic ES8092NC (Lamdash) uses, the instruction manual indicates they are NiMH batteries.

P.S. I'm still very pleased with the performance of this shaver.

Sincerely,

Andy

Thanks for letting us know, Andy.

From: Cline, Roy

Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2003 4:48 PM

Hi again, Gary,

I recently began using a new Norelco Spectra 8894xl electric shaver, and wanted to ask a couple of "how to use it" questions of my fellow "Mr. Steelbeard" aficionados. Most of my questions come from the instruction booklet itself. (I am, of course, assuming that Norelco knows what it's recommending)

1) When the book says "Easy does it, don't press too hard" how lightly do you hold the shaver against your skin? I can understand how too much pressure could cause irritation, but doesn't too little keep the shaver from doing it's job well?

2) The booklet recommends both straight movements and small circular movements for the best shave. Which works better? Does one work better on certain parts of the face?

3) Norelco recommends shaving "...against the grain" How does one do that when the cutters are moving in a circle? And, what exactly does it really mean? Does it really matter with a rotary shaver?

4) The book explains how to clean the shaving heads under hot water. Braun recommends occasionally applying antibacterial hand soap to clean their shavers, and I was wondering if that would help keep a Norelco free of bacteria? Would it hurt the shaver?

5) What is the most effective way to move the shaver across the upper lip and the underside of the neck immediately below the jaw line, above the throat itself? I've read the advice to move the shaver both clockwise and counterclockwise, but I am still having a tough time getting the stubble completely removed from these areas.

6) Lastly, just as an observation, I've called Norelco's 800 number three times in the last two weeks, asked for help with the Spectra shaver, and each time spoke to a woman. Now I'm not at all prejudice, but wouldn't it make more sense to have electric shaver questions answered by someone who shaves their face?

Basically, I guess I'm asking how to best use the Spectra, how to get the most comfortable and yet closest shave with my new "super weapon".....and any help from you or my fellow readers would be MUCH appreciated!

Thanks Gary, and keep up the great work with the best site on the web !!!!!!!

With deepest appreciation...........

Roy Cline

You're welcome, Roy and thanks for your note.  I'll try to answer your questions.  On question #1, just put moderate pressure on your shaver to your face.  The shaver should be able to do the rest with minimal irritation which, of course, can happen if you press too hard and get more skin layers than whiskers in your shaver.  For question #2, I find that shaving in a straight pattern is more for if your whiskers lay flat in one direction such as with the neck area.  Shaving against the grain, answering question #3, is more for trying to get the whiskers to stand up more before they enter the slots to be cut off.  The circular motion is fine for the rest of the face to go with the circular action of the cutters.  For question #4, I'm concerned about any residue which soap could leave behind.  My regimen for rinsing my Quadra (same with your Sensotec/Spectra) is that afterwards, I would use the Philips/Norelco spray lubricant (type AL80C).  I'm wondering what ingredients are in the lubricant in case they is anything which could kill bacteria in there.  Any answers are appreciated.  Question #5 I have limited recent experience because of my goatee so I'll let others answer it.  On question #6, I would believe that the female customer service reps would look at the FAQs and answer the questions from there.  I, myself, have called Norelco and found the quality of the service reps to be inconsistent.  Sometimes I get a very helpful person and at other times, I get a clueless person.  This often happens when new models are announced but the reps don't know about them yet.  I'll bet Norelco got a lot of questions about the Philishave Super Reflex 6000 series shavers which they knew nothing about before the Norelco Reflex Plus line was released recently in the USA.  The Super Reflex line was on the global Philishave web site months before the Reflex Plus became available in the USA.  I hope this helps.

From: Steve Chattin

Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2003 9:47 AM

I asked the questioned yesterday if there was a single shaver that couldlehattinon of the sport.ave their legs not to go faster but for easier treatment of abrasions and cuts after crashes. do nose, legs and facial hair. Later, upon investigating your fine web site, I found that Norelco makes a personal groomer specifically for nose, eyebrow and ear hair. I also settled on a shaver I will look at today at Fred Meyer.

So, for my special needs it looks like: the Personal Groomer G250 for nose, ear and eyebrows, the Spectra 8894 XL for the face and simple Blades for the legs. Incidentally, cyclists shave their legs not to go faster but for easier treatment of cuts and abrasions after crashes. Plus it’s the tradition of the sport.

Steve Chattin

Thanks for the update, Steve.

From: Dave King

Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2003 8:00 PM

Hi there

You seem to be the guru of electric shavers. I’ve got a Braun Model #5372 from about 1979 which still works well. Unfortunately, Gillette have obsoleted the spares for it now, and I can’t get a new cutter anywhere here in England – foils are dependant on finding old stock too. I am reluctant to be forced to buy a new machine which is “value engineered” i.e. made to today’s lower standards.

I have come across shaver parts branded Eltron in the States which seem to have the same model numbers as Braun’s. Are they one and the same? (I cannot find anything about Eltron on the web). If so I can mail order parts from the US. If you can give me any advice I would be very grateful.

Many thanks

Dave King

Thanks for your note, Dave.  Eltron shavers were made by Braun several years ago.  I showed an Eltron ad once as an Ad Of The Week which specifically said that their shavers were made by Braun.  This was before Braun started its own sales organisation in the USA.  You could try E-mailing the shaver shops I have links to to find out if they the Braun/Eltron cutter for your 5372 shaver.  My experience is that shavers discontinued for more than ten years tend to have spare parts discontinued by the ten year mark as well.  I hope this helps.

From: Steve Chattin

Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2003 5:16 PM

To: Mr. Steel Beard,

I am about to switch over to an electric shaver for the first time and need a little purchasing advice. As an old guy (60) it seems my nose hairs grow almost as fast as my whiskers and was wondering if there were any shavers out there that would do a quick and easy job on the nose hairs?

Also, as an avid cyclist I shave my legs. I initially get the long hair off with electric clippers but still need to shave the remaining stubble. Do you have suggestions on a shaver that might handle both these jobs? Regarding regular shaving, I have fairly tough whiskers but my skin is not tender or sensitive.

Thanks,

Steve Chattin

s_chattin@msn.com

Thanks for your note, Steve.  There are several battery operated nose hair trimmrs available from most of the main shaver companies.  There is a shaver which is a combination shaver and trimmer which is the Braun Shave & Shape which would save on the clutter of personal care appliances, but I have received mixed opinions on that shaver.  Other opinions are encouraged and let me know what you decided upon.  I hope this helps.

From: "Adam Spiers" <adam@spiers.net>

Date: Sunday, June 08, 2003 11:57 AM

Hi Gary, and congratulations on amassing such a rich collection of knowledge on electric shavers (thanks of course to all contributors too).

I've been a wet shave with razor blades guy pretty much consistently since the age of 13 or 14 (I've tried all the blades out there and found Gilette Mach 3 to be the clear leader). However I recently started thinking about giving electrics a proper go. There are two reasons for this. Firstly my skin doesn't appreciate being shaved more than every 3 days so I end up with stubble a lot of the time. This is probably due to usually shaving in two passes: with the grain then against - not ideal, but the only hope in hell I have of a really close shave. (My beard is very thick, with straight dark whiskers.) An electric would presumably allow me to be more clean-shaven most of the time.

Secondly, I had my head completely shaved with a Mach 3 the other day and found that I like the look, so I want to be able to regularly shave it myself, but anticipate that using a blade would be too time-consuming to be practical. Again I presume that an electric could make this a fairly easy task.

I had a brief dabble with a single foil about 10 years ago but found it extremely uncomfortable and it totally missed the longer whiskers (probably due to holes rather than slots?) However I suspect that technology has moved on somewhat since then, and I would like to give it another go. After extensive reading of your site, I have my eyes on a Sensotec HQ8894 or possibly Panasonic's new ES8092NC, although information on the latter is a bit thin on the ground. Conveniently it's my birthday soon, so with contributions from all the family, price is not an issue. My main criteria would be: copes well with varying amounts of growth and regular head shaving, has adjustable sensitivity, quick operation, is easy to clean/wash, doesn't "leak" whiskers, preferably cordless with excellent battery (I tend to be suspicious of anything which isn't Li-Ion). One thing I am still not sure of is the relative merits of dry vs wet electric shaves and whether I need an electric that I can use in the shower.

Any advice on any of these matters gratefully received!

Adam

P.S. Have you considered presenting your website in a less "flat" format, e.g. as a mailing list with searchable archives? The problem I've found is, it has so many worthwhile threads of discussion going on that I found it quite hard to follow the ones relevant to myself, and ended up basically reading the lot. Just a minor gripe accompanied by loud praise!

Thanks for your note, Adam.  I've been trying to look up the technical data on the Panasonic/National ProCurve/Lamdash ES8092NC shaver, but I still haven't found what type of batteries are used.  The Philishave/Norelco Sensotec/Spectra 8894 (the model James Bond used in "Die Another Day") uses the Li-Ion battery which you prefer.  If you look immediately below, Herman gave a glowing review of the Sensotec/Spectra saying it was better than the Philishave/Norelco Quadra model he had been using.  As for why the Electric Shaver Page has a 'flat' appearance, my feeling is that it's the information that's more important than the style of the web site and--the more significant reason--because this is a hobby web site, I find that I barely have time to keep up this web site, let alone make improvements to it.  The latest improvement I made, using Bravenet's free web tools, is a series of mini-polls which continually give favourite or least favourite shaver questions which I plan on compiling twice a month to try and get a consensus as to which shavers are the best and worst.  I hope this helps and thanks again.

From: HERMAN

Date: Friday, June 06, 2003 12:58 PM

Hi Again Gary,

I just wanted to give you an update on my new Norelco Spectra and it's performance tackling longer hairs which was the weakness of my previous Norelco Quadra.

The Spectra has a couple of important improvements over the Quadra that I believe directly affect shave quality.

1. The extra set of slots towards the center.

2. The Middle of the head is dimpled whereas on the Quadra it is concave. The Spectra seems to glide more easily over your face, especially in muggy weather , whereas the Quadra would tend to drag under these conditions. I believe that this change in head design accounts for this.

3. There is MUCH more movement to the reflex action pivoting platforms.

4. The motor is more powerful.

5. A much improved trimmer. Trimmers have always been weak on Norelcos but this one is actually effective.

6. Of course the sensitivity adjustment control which adjusts the stiffness of the floating heads.

Without a doubt, the long hair performance is improved over the Quadra and more in line with Norelcos of old. I think that the combination of extra set of slots and the more powerful motor account for this improvement. I give the Spectra a slight edge over the Quadra in overall closeness.

Based on these results I would highly recommend the Spectra over the Quadra.

Herman.

Thanks for the latest review of the Norelco Spectra (aka Philishave Sensotec) shaver, Herman.

From: "Paul Benson" <paulv.benson@blueyonder.co.uk>

Date: Friday, June 06, 2003 6:05 PM

With reference to David's question about the Remington Intercept Sensitive shaver. I found that the shave quality was good with little irritation. However in less than two years I had to replace the battery twice and finally I had to throw it away. My Grundig FX3 shaves better with no irritation and the charge lasts for ages. When is Remington going to get the hint and do something about their appalling reputation for batteries?

Regards

Paul B

UKenson

Thanks for your note, Paul.  I hope Remington (as well as Payer which I believe makes the Intercept Sensitive line for Remington if it's made in Austria) makes improvements to the rechargeable batteries.

From: Jack Mazafi

Date: Wednesday, June 04, 2003 5:36 PM

Gary-

I recently found one of my dads old Rota tract shavers which looks identical to the one you have posted as the shaver that started the Electric Shaver Page. All I have is the shaver and the case, I was hoping you could tell me what kind of cord it needs, how long it takes to charge and how long the charge lasts. Also, do you know what other accessories it came with at the time?

-Jack Mazafi

Thanks for your note, Jack.  You mentioned that your Rotatract is rechargeable.  Unfortunately, the similar shaver I have is a corded model.  So I couldn't help on the recharging question.  Early rechargeable shavers which do not use a charging stand use a cord with a power supply as part of the plug.  Those types of cords can be very hard to find nowadays.  If you can inquire to Norelco/Philips about the power supply voltage and current as well as the polarity of the plug--and hoping that the plug going into your shaver is easily available--so that a so-called universal power supply could be used.  Early rechargeables required that they be charged overnight for maybe about a week of morning shaves.

From: "David Mulhern" <davidkmulhern@hotmail.com>

Date: Saturday, May 31, 2003 6:31 PM

I am a long-time foil user with a tough beard and sensitive skin. I am always keeping an eye open for new electric shavers that will deal with a tough beard without shredding my face. So far, nothing for me has topped Remington and Braun's single foil shavers, which seem to be able to handle the beard and are quite gentle on the face. However, I just noticed on "The Shaver Shop's" site a new product called "Remington RS 7830 MicroScreen Sensitive Intercept Shaver." The product description claims that the twin foils are somehow designed for sensitive skin.

I am interested in any information about this shaver. What is the technology that (allegedly) makes it better for sensitive skin? Does anybody have any experience with the shaver? How long has it been out? Is it washable? Any info greatly appreciated.

As always, thanks for a great site. Regards, David

You're welcome David and thanks for the new inquiry.  While the listed shaver is not on the USA Remington web site, I did see a similar model, the RS7832 MicroScreen Intercept Sensitive shaver on the European Remington web site at http://www.remington-products.com/europe/products/mshavers/rs7832.html   The web site says "The unique Sensitive model has special shaving foils with a skin protecting foil pattern design and a hypoallergenic Ruthenium coating. This guarantees a kinder shave for people with sensitive skin."  If anyone has any experience with either Remington Intercept Sensitive shaver, please let us know.  I hope this helps.

From: "Bill M Catambay" <batts@excaliburworld.com>

Date: Friday, May 30, 2003 3:16 PM

Norelco batteries...

RE: http://mywebpages.comcast.net/steelbeard1/tell00.htm

I read your letter and response regarding replacing batteries on the 5885XL razor, and you indicated trying Radio Shack. I might also add the following web site where I found the needed battery pack:

http://www2.mailordercentral.com/electricshaver/findprod.asp?FINDNUMBER=13810334

Regards,

Bill

Thanks for the tip, Bill.

From: HERMAN

Date: Thursday, May 29, 2003 2:35 AM

Hi Gary,

I enjoy visiting your site and learning about the new innovations in shaving technology.

Right now I have a Norelco Quadra that does a decent job provided it's used daily. The trouble is that once I let a couple of days go by then it becomes almost totally ineffective and I have no choice but to break out the razor blade and shaving cream. Basically the Quadra just can't cut the longer hairs and is a major disadvantage of this model compared to the previous Reflex action line. This is really too bad because the shave is close and comfortable and the washing feature is very convenient.

I've noticed the the new Spectra line uses slightly different heads with extra slots in the middle portion. From this I gather that perhaps Norelco has recognised the long hair issue with the Quadra line I would like your opinion and the opinion of your viewers as to how effective the Spectra is at tackling the longer hairs, specifically compared to the Quadra and the older reflex line.

Thank you very much in advance for your time Gary.

Herman

Thanks for your note, Herman.  I agree with your points on the Philishave/Norelco Quadra line's disadvantage for someone who doesn't shave every day.  The Sensotec/Spectra line, as you mention, has the additional slots in the middle position which I believe answers the problem you mentioned with the Quadra line.  On occasion, I would use my rechargeable Reflex Action HQ5865 (the one I use for travelling) or even the old corded Philishave Micro Action HS775 model if I skipped shaving for a day.  My usual shaver, in case you didn't know, is a corded Philishave HQ6425 Quadra model.  That's my opinion, let's have other opinions posted on this forum.

From: "charles self" <chasv30@netscape.net>

Date: Wednesday, May 28, 2003 11:04 PM

Gary,

It has been several months since I visited you site and I read a few posts that I wanted to put my two cents worth in.

First of all to all the Braun Flex XP users. The Braun Flex XP uses the same foil and cutter as the Braun Flex Integral so there is no problem getting replacements. Only Braun's newest packaging shows this. Also on changing from a rotary to a foil shaver or vice versa, with the difference way you move the shaver across your skin, I find its like trying to change the part in your hair from left to right, it takes time to get your hair to learn which way to go. So it can take some time to adjust to a new shaver.

Thanks again for your wonderful forum for electric shaver users

Charles Self

www.TheApplianceConnection.net

Atlanta Ga

You're welcome, Charles and thanks for sharing the info.

From: "Jiang Hong Ming, James" <jianghm@singnet.com.sg>

Date: Monday, May 26, 2003 10:11 AM

Subject: Philishave battery replacment

Hi,

Just would like to know whether the replacement battery must be 1.2V 600mAh NiCd? I bought 700mAh NiCd battery, put inside my philishave 5885, after full charge. My shaver refused to work, displaying the charging remaining with the "learning" icon on top.

Anyone know whether I can use 700mAh NiCd in Philishave? and what doesn the "learning" LCD means? Thanks.

Thanks for your inquiry, James.  I'm hoping that someone with access to a service manual for a Philishave HQ5885 shaver (or Norelco 5885XL which is identical) can help out.  The closest one I have is for my own Philishave HQ5865 which was the next model down from your HQ5885.  It gave the cell capacity as 600mAh.  Where did you get the battery pack from?  I looked up the data from http://www.batterybarn.com which gave the following specs for your shaver's American counterpart, the Norelco 5885XL:  Ni-Cad battery, 2.4 V (1.2V each cell.) , 600 mah. Dimensions at 1&7/8" L x 5/8" D.  I hope you bought two batteries because the shaver requires two batteries.  I don't know if the difference in mAh between what you bought and what I found makes a difference.  The "learning" icon figures out from your shaving habits how many shaves you have left before you need to recharge the battery.  I hope others can help you out by replying here.  I hope this helps.

From: Andrew Kranjc

Date: Thursday, May 08, 2003 12:04 AM

In my seemingly eternal quest for the perfect electric shaver, I decided to try the new Panasonic ES8092NC (Lamdash), based mostly on what I had read on your website.

Although I've only tried it a few times, so far this shaver is the best electric I've ever owned. Using it dry, I get about the same excellent shave as with the Braun Syncro or the Flex XP 5614, but the shave is much faster -- about 5 minutes for the ES8092NC versus at least 10 minutes with the Braun's. Since the shave is so quick, irritation is minimized, even on my sensitive lower-neck area. Using it wet with Gillette Shaving Foam or Edge Gel, the shave is even closer. I experimented by using my Mach III Turbo against the grain, resulting in an excellent shave on the cheeks and chin and a very good shave on the neck. The ES8092NC gave an excellent shave on the cheeks, chin and neck, so in my opinion I'd actually rate the Panasonic a bit better than the Mach III. And of course, the Mach III Turbo left me with irritation while the ES8092NC was virtually irritation free.

The curved, ergonomic shape of this shaver minimizes arm movements, making shaving easier. The constant 13,000 RPM speed of the motor helps maintain a consistently fast shave on my thick, wiry, straight beard. Panasonic claims the newly designed blades are the sharpest made and I have noticed I need many fewer passes to achieve a clean shave. The new turbo-cleaning mode (17,000 RPM) seems to do an excellent job keeping the shaver free of debris without the costly cleaning cartridges needed by the Syncro. When in turbo cleaning mode, though, I can't seem to get the shaver to "foam up" with liquid soap as Panasonic shows, even though the Panasonic ES8023SC I tried previously foamed up considerably.

This shaver has a three-position switch on its side to regulate the movement of the shaving head which adjusts in all planes -- back and forth, side to side, and up and down. The foil for each blade even moves independently. So far, I've only tried it in the "Soft" position, allowing the head maximum movement so it conforms to the contours of ones face and neck. The middle position limits the head movement to maybe half the maximum and the "Lock" position doesn't really lock the head, but does minimize head movement.

Although I haven't run the shaver down yet, it appears I can get at least 7-8 shaves on a charge which is acceptable to me. The batteries are NiMH so I hope the Panasonic battery problems noted by others on the forum are a thing of the past. Of course, the general reliability of Panasonic shavers is dubious if one gauges it by the postings here. But if I can get four years out of it, I'll be happy.

Like a previous poster, I too couldn't figure out the difference between the ES8095NC and the ES8092NC, except for the color. Like the previous poster, I e-mailed Panasonic. They responded on 04/15/03 that they were researching the issue and would get back to me, but apparently the research is going very slowly as I haven't yet received a follow-up response. So I took the chance that the only real difference is the color. On Amazon, the ES8092NC is $20 cheaper than the ES8095NC and I prefer the blue color of the ES8092NC to the black of the ES8095NC anyway.

If I have any further observations about the ES8092NC, I'll post again, but right now I'd give this shaver a 9 out of 10 rating. The downsides are that you can't use this razor corded (although there is a five-stage battery monitor and the charger doubles as a stand if one unplugs it), and it comes with a cheap velvety pouch that holds only the razor and not the charger. Also, the replacement foil is outrageously priced at $39.95, probably due to its complexity. The replacement blades are $21.95 -- also expensive, but not ridiculously so. These figures are from an accessory list Panasonic provides. Hopefully, when I need replacements, I'll be able to find a vendor who sells them for a more reasonable price. Since Panasonic recommends replacing the foil once a year and the blades once every two years, upkeep could get expensive, but probably not more than the Braun Syncro when you take into account the cost of the cleaning cartridges.

Sincerely,

Andy

Thanks for the report, Andy.

From: Jack Mazafi

Date: Tuesday, May 06, 2003 5:27 PM

Can anyone tell me if the Norelco 4625x can be charged anywhere in the world? also, this has model has the comfort adjustment - what is the setting for sensitive skin and for not so sensitive? Any input would help, thanks

Thanks for your question, Jack.  The Norelco 4625X has automatic voltage adaptation so you can charge it anywhere in the world as long as you have the right plug attached to it to go to the wall outlet.  I hope this helps.

From: Petergg4@aol.com

Date: Tuesday, May 06, 2003 3:26 PM

In response to Todd Lundvall..........

I have both the Braun Flex XP 5614 and I also have the Remington Microscreen 3-4000......they both give great shaves..I alternate between the two of them..I favor the Remington only because of the 3 screens.. however.. the readout of shaving minutes left is not very accurate. the Braun gives more shaving time but the sideburn trimmer is not as good as the Remington...both are washable and I feel which ever one you choose you will not be making the wrong decision..

George Gentekos

Thanks for your comment, George.

From: "Robert Ennis" <rj@ennx.com>

Date: Monday, May 05, 2003 12:13 PM

Hi Gary,

I'm responding to the person asking about the Remington TCT shaver. I used one and as I reported several months ago, it's an excellent foil shaver. I thought it was superior to the Braun 7570 that I had tried previously. Unlike the Braun it has a very large shaving surface and an excellent grip.

My problem with the shaver was the battery life. The battery was good for three or four days regardless of what the display told me was left on the charge. I should mention that I was using the TCT MS3 4000. The TCT shavers are identical except for the display features.

It's a very good shaver and I miss it in some ways. Maybe Remington has done something to improve the battery life.

Thanks for your comments, Robert.

From: Todd Lundvall

Date: Friday, May 02, 2003 10:28 AM

I requested an electric shaver as a gift and was glad to receive not 1, but 2 models. Now I have the fun choice of trying to figure out which one to keep. I have yet to try either model. Any input would be greatly appreciated. The models are as follows: Braun Flex XP 5614 and Remington Microscreen 3 TCT. From time to time I do travel, but most of the usage will be at home. Just need a razor that will do the job and leave the skin as non irritated as possible and be easy to get replacement parts when needed, but hopefully not needed too often. I have read what has been previously placed in the comments on both products and I truly haven’t seen much on the Remington model. After checking the manufacture’s websites and getting their biased opinions I am still up in the air on which to use. Input would be greatly appreciated. Currently use the mach 3 blade and that requires shaving at least two times daily.

Thank you for your time,

Todd

I'm glad to help, Todd and thanks for your note.  My experience with user input reflects what you found in which there are more opinions on the Braun Flex XP line compared to the Remington MicroScreen 3 TCT line.  If anyone has experience in using both product lines, please let us know.  I hope this helps.

From: "Christopher Rouser" <christopherrouser@hotmail.com>

Date: Tuesday, April 29, 2003 8:47 PM

Hi Gary,

This comment refers to the person who wrote that they were happy with the Remington DA-107 but purchased a Remington R-835 when the 107 conked out. I think the reason they are finding the 835 doesn't shave them as close as the 107 is because the 835 just isn't as good a shaver. Remington makes a few great foil shavers but their line of rotary's are all marginal performers, they just can't compete with the Norelco Lift and Cut system for closeness, hands down. If he wants a really great deal on a shaver and was happy with the DA-107 he should try the Remington MS2-100 corded. The MS2-100 gives a close comfortable shave with no frills for low cost, maybe 20 on ebay, 30 in the stores give or take. I've never tried the DA but I have tried the 835 and MS2-100 and speak from experience there. I have a MS2-100 in my travel bag and an MS2-400 as my daily shaver. Thanks!

You're welcome, Christopher and thank you for your input recommending Remington's corded MS2-100 shaver.

From: "Anthony Jereley" <jerd@ozemail.com.au>

Date: Saturday, April 26, 2003 5:33 AM

Hi,

I have bought a Philishave 6465. This is the corded/non-rechargable version. I opened up the case and found a white, plastic clip for holding (what i assume is) a rechargable battery. Is this non-rechargable shaver just a rechargeble one without the battery? Is it possible to put a battery into this shaver and solder it in? If so, what type of battery would be suitable and where would i solder the battery too?

Thanks

Anthony

Thanks for your question, Anthony.  While the Quadra shaver I have is another corded shaver, the HQ6425, it has fewer accessories opposed to the HQ6465 you have.  The clip I think it is (is it two pieces with two screw holes on one piece for mounting like the one I acquired?) is a wall stand (it could be a combination stand/wall holder) put the shaver onto.  What I was able to do with my stand is to cut an opening on the front part of the stand that the shaver sits in.  This allows me to store the shaver with the mains cord still attached to the shaver.  I don't know the design of your holder so can you let me know?  As for if the corded shaver could be converted into a rechargeable, I would say no.  The electronics inside the shaver is for automatic voltage adaptation and has no recharging electronics inside.  I hope this helps.

From: Tim Croley

Date: Friday, April 25, 2003 3:42 PM

I have a Braun 4501 Flex Control shaver that is several years old. It seems that it is losing its charge quicker than it used to, so I am looking for a new razor. I have had several electric razors over the years and the Braun has given me the best shave. I have found a 5415 on the net at a good price, and feel like the shave with the 5415 would be about equal to the shave that I've been getting from my 4501.

But, I can get a Braun Interface corded razor for about 20 buck less and can buy it locally. I do want a corded only or cord/cordless so that I will have the option in case the batteries go out.

I have a couple of questions: I know that the Interface is a single foil and fixed position head, but is the foil and cutter made from the same materials as the Flex Control? After shaving with the Flex Control, will I be disappointed with the Interface?

Thanks for any help/advice.

Tim Croley

Thanks for your question, Tim.  The feedback I've been getting on the InterFace model has been mainly negative.  The foil I believe is similar in concept if not necessarily in design and the composition of the foil surface may vary compared to the Flex Control.  The reasonably-priced Braun Flex XP line is getting the most attention nowadays and their 5614 model is a cord/cordless model so you can use it plugged in.  I'll let the other Braun users add their input.  I hope this helps.

From: Michael Strasburger

Date: Thursday, April 24, 2003 10:46 PM

I need some help. I've been struggling with different electric shavers for years. I tried a Norelco about 8 years ago, but could not adjust to the lift and cut; it tore me up pretty good (my dad gave me a Norelco about 25 years ago, which as I recall, was OK). I have also used a few foil shavers, mostly Brauns. I currently shave every other day, using a Braun 4501 to "clean-up" after a blade shave, and I'm tired of it. I want to find an electric that will work for me. I consider my skin to be sensitive: I'm a redhead, with light coloring. I was checking out the Remington ES-1000 that Mike mentioned - it looks like a possibility. Any advice/suggestions appreciated.

Thanks for the great resource.

Michael

Thanks for your note, Michael.  The Remington ES-1000 is the type of shaver which is great for those with problems with 'razor bumps'.  Remington also sells rotary shavers, but I got mixed reviews on them.  They do not have the Lift & Cut heads which are exclusive to Philishave/Norelco shavers thanks to patents.  Philishave used to sell Rota Action shavers without the Lift & Cut heads but there are sources which my still have them.  You could contact Mercury Shaver Centre of Toronto (a sponsored link) which, from recent Electric Razor Rap message board postings, still had some refurbished Philishave Rota Action shavers to sell.  I hope this helps.

From: Tim Alsters

Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2003 6:00 AM

Hello,

With my Birthday coming up in a couple of days, I'm thinking about letting my parents buy me a new shaver. I've been using an old Braun shaver, which my Father had bought for himself deacdes ago, but which he had never used. It shaves my face quite well, but I always have to shave my throat wet with my old blade shaver because the Braun doesn't get all the hairs.

Now I'm wondering whether this is because of its age or because of the shaving method it is using? So I don't know if I should buy a Braun or a Philips. The Philips seem to be pretty good, but I don't like the fact that you have to buy new razorblades every 18 month, which seems to cost about 50 Bucks. Or is their any model where you don't have to do this? The Price of the Brauns seems better, but I'm afraid that it might not shave my beard well.

I narrowed it down to a few models. The Phillips HQ 7850 and the HQ 6890 seem to be good, but which one of both is better? And would any of you recommend the Braun Flex XP 5614.

I hope you guys can help me, thanks in advance.

Tim

Sure, Tim and thanks for your inquiry.  All the models you mentioned are good choices.  Both Philips models are of the same Quadra product line of Philishave/Norelco shavers.  The HQ7850 is a newer Quadra model and the HQ6890 is an old model which you can probably obtain at a good price as it is discontinued.  Both use the same HQ6 heads so the shaving performance would be identical.  The Braun Flex XP line, including the 5614 you mention is also highly regarded as giving great shaves at a good price.  As I use a Quadra model (an HQ6425) myself, my opinion would be hopelessly biased so I'll let the others readers give their opinion.  I hope this helps and happy birthday!

From: "Gary Shaver" <gishaver@netscape.net>

Date: Sunday, April 20, 2003 3:53 PM

Thanks for the tip Gary. I think maybe I didn't try long enough shaving in a circular motion so I will stick to this for awhile and let you know how I make out. Something I forgot to put in my last letter is a tip for your readers with dry skin.

I have unusually dry skin (aggravated by diabetes) and for years I used to use Mennen's Skin Bracer. About five years ago I started using Gillette Series after shave gel for sensitive skin with great results but the moisture in my skin didn't last as long as I would have liked. About three months ago I ran out of after shave and looked around the house for something and the only thing I could find was Lander's Baby Lotion that we use for my granddaughter. I was amazed at how good my face felt and it lasted quite a long time. My skin didn't feel dried out for most of the day. I found that by the time I had my coffee the 'baby' smell was gone before I left the house. I wouldn't use anything else now. Hope this helps some of your readers with dry skin.

Thanks for the tip, Gary and let us know how you made out.

From: "Gary Shaver" <gishaver@netscape.net>

Date: Thursday, April 17, 2003 4:01 PM

I have used a Remington DA107 for a lot of years and it gave a pretty fair shave. The only complaints I had were sometimes it shaved too close and left my skin sensitive and it had a tendency to heat up after the first four minutes or so. Prior to that I had an old Microscreen, I don't remember the model number but it was the old square clunky model and it was pretty fair but not as user friendly as the DA107.

Recently the DA107 wore out and I thought I would try a rotary and bought a Remington R835. I've had good luck with Remington so I stuck with them. What I like about the R835 is that it's a cord model (full power all the time), no adjustment settings (I like products that are simple and reliable) and it is somewhat more comfortable than a foil shaver and it doesn't seem to overheat like the foil did.

My question is this; being new to rotary shavers, I have had mixed results and have come to the conclusion that it's not the shaver but my inexperience with them. I have tried shaving vertically as with the foil, and I have tried shaving in circles as in the manual. I don't like a real close shave, it just needs to look ok before I leave in the morning and be comfortable. Would any of your readers have any tips on shaving techniques they would share with me?

Gary Shaver,

Grande Prairie, AB

Canada

gishaver@netscape.net

Thanks for your note, Gary.  My immediate suggestion with rotary shavers is to shave in a circular manner as opposed to the up and down motion you may have used with foil shavers.  Other suggestions are encouraged.  I hope this helps.

From: "Perry Papantonis" <Perry.Papantonis@hewitt.com>

Date: Thursday, April 17, 2003 3:54 PM

Just saw Panasonic released the ES8095NC and the ES8092 (available on Amazon). These models appear to be marketed as the "Lamdash" models in Japan. I cannot tell the difference between the ES8095NC and the ES8092. Even using the "compare" feature on the Panasonic website provides no discernible difference between the 2 models. Any clues?

Also, any idea what the ES8096 and ES8097 are? Seems they use the same foils as the ES8095NC and the ES8092 but I cannot find any info on these (apparently higher end) models other than references to the models.

Anyone try any of these?

Perry C. Papantonis

Hewitt Associates LLC

100 Somerset Corporate Boulevard

Bridgewater, NJ 08807-0934

E-mail: perry.papantonis@hewitt.com

Thanks for your inquiry, Perry.  As I haven't, I asking those who have tried the new Panasonic/National Lamdash line to help us.

From: "Dennis B.Dolle" <dolledb@cet.com>

Date: Sunday, April 13, 2003 11:25 AM

In answer to Mike's question regarding Braun Flex XP models 5610, 5612, and 5614...the shaving systems, closeness and comfort are the same. Only the battery systems and cosmetics differ. The 5610 uses NiCad batteries and takes 8 hours to charge. The 5612 uses NiCad batteries and requires only one hour to charge. The 5614 incorporates NiHd batteries and requires one hour to charge. The 5610 and 5612 come with charger stands. The 5614 is packaged with a charger cord/adapter that adjusts automatically to primary power voltage (Euro, American, etc.) and allows corded operation. The 5610 and 5612 can only be used cordless. The 5614 also incorporates a water-clear LED which indicates charge and low-charge status. The 5610 and 5612 charge LED lights only to indicate that the shaver is charging when in its powered charging stand. I own the 5610 and am extremely pleased with its shaving performance. Had I realized how well this shaver works, I would have sprung for the 5614. Good luck, Mike.

Dennis

Thanks for sharing the info and helping Mike out, Dennis.

From: Siobhan Papantonis

Date: Sunday, April 13, 2003 8:55 AM

I am seeing on a number of sites (including Amazon) that Panasonic is introducing its new line of electric shavers on Tuesday April 15. It appears that these are the "Lamdash" models that have been sold in Japan for some time. Several models are mentioned in these sites -- the ES8095NC and the ES8092. However, according to the Panasonic site, the foils for these shavers also fit the ES8096 and the ES8097A. I'd like to try one of these 4 shavers but cannot seem to get any information on the 8096 or 8097. In addition, seems the 9082 and the 8095NC are identical (except for price and color) as the Pansonic site shows no difference at all between the functionality of these 2 models and does not mention the 8096 or 8097 at all (except in the accessories department). Do you have any info on these 4 models?

PS I am getting somewhat frustrated with Panasonic as I have never seen a large, global company with such a poor website (I e-mailed my questions to Panasonic and of course got no response).

PSS Great Site!!

Perry

You're welcome, Perry and thanks for the info.  I wish that Panasonic/National would be like most of the other shaver companies which have either centralised or coordinated web sites so the global web site would link to each countries' web sites shaver offerings directly.

From: Michael Twardowski

Date: Saturday, April 12, 2003 10:51 PM

Hi- I was wondering if there was a shaver product that cuts stubble to lengths less than a typical trimmer (usually 1.5mm is the shortest) but doesn't provide the closest possible shave. A typical electric or blade shaver provides an uncomfortably close shave for me. I started shaving my entire face with the extendable trimmer on my electric razor and I really like it, but it takes a really long time and makes a mess. What I think I need is an electric shaver that cuts stubble to 0.1-1mm. Thanks in advance for any advice and great website!

Mike

Thanks for your question, Mike.  I would think that shavers designed for those with tightly curled whiskers and marketed to men of African heritage would be good candidates.  While Wahl does market one, it's not on their web site.  The first one I found which mentioned it is at http://www.shopinprivate.com/wahcorshavfo.html  I hope this helps.

UPDATE:  Mike followed up with new info which I think is great news for those who liked Remington's old slotted head shavers.  It's back!  Here's Mike's reply:

I did some more research and found the "Remington Ultra Smooth Bump Control Shaver" (designed to replace older black man's shavers):

http://www.remington-products.com/usa/products/mshavers/es1000.html

I quote: "Unlike other shavers designed to cut hair beneath the skin, UltraSmooth cuts the hairs just close enough for a close shave, but not so close as to cut the hairs beneath the skin causing razor bumps or ingrown hairs."

This has 8000 RPM blades so it should be quick. It is also rechargeable and I assume it collects the shavings. I ordered one and I hope it does the trick! Thanks for the excellent advice.

(end of pasted update)  Thanks again, Mike.

From: Rex M. Oppenheimer

Date: Saturday, April 12, 2003 7:47 PM

Hi, Gary,

I have enjoyed your unique and informative Web site. From my own experience and the plethora of valuable information on your site, it would seem that shaving is a particularly subjective activity.

I used a blade for many years but switched to a Norelco in the early 90s. I subsequently purchased a Norelco Advantage and then a Quadra. I enjoyed all of these shavers, and was always very happy to have left blade shaving behind me.

It always seemed, however, that although a shaver would seem a fantastic improvement at first, after some time I would not be as happy with the results as I once was.

In 2001 I made the switch to foil, when I purchased a Panasonic Linear. I was quite disappointed. It shaved close, but was somewhat irritating and after the lightweight, easy to handle Norelco, quite cumbersome. I returned the Panasonic and purchased a new Norelco Quadra.

When I first returned to Norelco, with my new Quadra, I was in heaven. I thought it entirely superior to foil shaving. I found the way it fit my hand, the angle of the heads against my skin, its weight and its cutting ability all combined to make it a far better shaver.

After some time, however, my experience began to pale. It just seemed to take forever to get a good shave, and although the cleaning under running water was quite simple, I had become tired of the intermittently necessary Norelco cleaning routine of removing the cutters, keeping them matched, etc.

So, last year I bought a Braun Syncro. I was in heaven! Nothing had shaved me so well. It was easy to handle and just did a better job than the Norelco. For cleaning, I use the automatic mechanism every other time or so, and simply use the brush the rest of the time.

Now that a year has passed, however, I am beginning to wonder about the Panasonic Linear. Perhaps because it was my first foil I didn’t give it a proper chance. Although cleaning the Braun is easy, holding the Linear under water sounds appealing. Plus, as with all my shavers in the past, after a year, the Braun, which seemed like heaven at first, now seems somewhat imperfect, particularly on my neck.

I also have to take several swipes with the Braun to get a really close shave. I’m thinking that with the 13,000 rpm Linear, I might get a better shave.

I’d appreciate any feedback from your readers who have had a Braun/Panasonic experience.

Thanks for your great Web site!

Best,

Rex

Thanks for your note, Rex.  I hope that those who used both Braun and Panasonic/National shavers will share their experience with you.

From: "Robert Turnbull" <circlotron@yahoo.com>

Date: Friday, April 11, 2003 2:38 AM

Does anyone know where I can buy the Braun XP 5600 in the US? I'm looking for a non-rechargeable shaver. So far the closest I've come is: http://www.aroraelectric.com/prsnl_shavers_mens.htm

Thanks for your question, Robert.  I had no luck with the search engines, but when I looked at the URL you mentioned, I figured out why.  The official Braun web site shows that Braun does not offer the corded Braun Flex XP 5600 in North America.  The Arora Electric web site clearly shows that the XP 5600 is 'EXCLUSIVE TO US'.  So Arora Electric is the only place in North America where you can get the Braun Flex XP 5600 shaver.

From: miker777@adelphia.net

Date: Tuesday, April 08, 2003 7:31 PM

Hi, I was wondering if the braun flex xp models (5610, 5612, and 5614) are all about the same when it comes to comfort and closeness. Each one is about $10 more than the other. thanks Mike

Thanks for your question, Mike.  The shaving performance is the same for the three models.  Braun has a web page which compares the features of the three Braun XP models you mention. The web site as I write this is found at http://www.braun.com/na/products/shavinggrooming/dryshaving/dryshaving/flexxp/models.html I hope this helps.

From: James A Elliott

Date: Friday, March 28, 2003 9:11 AM

Hi, Gary.

I just wanted to let you know that I have had some trouble, too, getting a close shave on the upper lip area. There always was a couple of hairs near the top of my upper lip that I couldn't reach with neither my Philishave HQ5401 nor my Philishave HS555. After shaving in a clockwise motion as well as a counter-clockwise motion in that area as recommended by Tell Mr. Steel Beard contributor Nick Hand, however, I can now say that I am able to shave off all the hairs on my upper lip. Thanks, Nick, and thanks, Gary, for a great website.

Jim

Thanks for letting us know, Jim.  I'm glad that we were able to help you.  Thanks again, Nick.

From: Pat

Date: Thursday, March 27, 2003 11:34 PM

Hi all, just wanted to say how much I like my new razor, a Spectra. I was using a Panasonic Linear for the last couple of years. It did a good job on my face, but was pretty lousy with my neck. I would use a disposable razor to dry shave my neck after I used the Linear (no groans please). I used to do the same thing with a Remington Microscreen. Well, when the battery died on the Linear, I choose the Spectra since it was not a foil razor. I have had it a week, and have really liked it. So, if you have the same problem with trying to shave your neck you might want to go with a Spectra, or one of the other floating head types.

Thanks for your note endorsing your Norelco Spectra (aka Philishave Sensotec) shaver, Pat.

From: Cherubini, Jason

Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2003 12:19 PM

I was wondering if you could recommend a good trimmer ...for the face. I have trouble no matter what electric shaver I use or disposable for that matter. It seems that my skin grows incredibly fast combined with my facial hair that is some what difficult. Whenever the hair is cut close to the skin , problems ensue. I have had luck with (once getting my skin cleared) using a Norelco with a pop on beard trimmer head. I have not had problems with this method, It no longer works properly because the devise has broken. While yes I don't get a "close shave" it saves my face from looking like Belgrade and there for justifiable. Do you know of or could you recommend a trimmer that I could use in the same manner? I was recently given a Quadra shaver , this seems to aggravate my skin/face also, but I read that it could take up to 7 days before my skin would get adjusted. Is this correct. I am 25 yrs old and would appreciate your help.

Jason Cherubini

Internal Audit Dept.

Hewlett Packard Company

jason.cherubini@hp.com

Thanks for your note, Jason.  The beard trimmer I use is an older discontinued Philips model.  I once had a full beard until I goofed with the trimmer setting which is why I have a goatee today.  Today Philips markets some very nice beard trimmers using both the Philishave and Norelco names.  There are several other nice beard trimmers offered by other companies which make shavers and hair clippers.  If anyone with experience in using a trimmer for shaving purposes has any suggestions, please tell us.

From: <nick.hand@kwp.com.au>

Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2003 1:25 AM

Gary

I have a response to Roy Clines' query about the best way to get at the upper lip. Of course if you recall, I'm new to rotary shaving, so I might be just espousing the blindingly obvious, but I use the circular motion recommended by Philishave, but make sure I circle the shaver both clockwise and anti-clockwise. Since I've been doing this, my shave has been far better. I think also, the skin needs to be pulled as taut as you can get it (pushing my tongue into the back of my upper lip seems to work for me).

Regards

Nick Hand

Thanks for the tip, Nick.

From: Cline, Roy

Date: Thursday, March 20, 2003 12:06 PM

Hi again, Gary,

I thought I would write with an update on my search for a new shaver. My fellow readers may remember that I was considering switching to a foil after 20 years with Norelco. Well, after reading all of the posts on this most wonderful site, and talking to my dermatologist, I made a decision. My dermatologist is of the opinion that every man's beard is capable of adjusting to different shaving systems, but that there is one which works best for that person. And he felt strongly that since my face has responded well to Norelco's "lift and cut" for so long, I would be best served by sticking with that method. So with my B-day being the 8th, I informed my loving better-half that a Norelco 8894XL would make me a VERY happy man. And being the wonderful wife that she is, guess what I received ??

First impressions after two weeks: VERY classy, well engineered piece of equipment. Well built, solid construction, and it fits my hand better then previous editions. I charged the shaver and gave it it's first shot at my face. The first thing I noticed is that the Spectra is the quietest shaver I have ever used, and the second was the feeling when I pressed it against my face. I have used Norelcos for a very long time, and I have never felt anything like it. It didn't even feel as if it were cutting! It glides over my face smoothly, much more comfortable then my previous shaver, a Quadra 6886xl. I used to have one of the old Norelco units with the comfort control, I've missed that with the Quadra, and it's nice to have it back! But this one somehow seems to work "better", at least as far as the sensitive setting. I may be a bit of an anomaly, but I actually use the settings on occasion. Day to day I use a middle setting, but I'll turn it down a bit if my face is sunburnt, or move it to a closer setting if I'm going out with my wife for the evening, etc. If fact, one of best tips I've ever learned for using this is to turn it to a sensitive setting the day BEFORE I need a super great shave. That gives me a clean looking face for that day, and a little more stubble for the shaver to bite into the next day when I turn it to a closer setting. I've always found that I get my closest shaves on a day and half to a two day growth of beard hair.

The only problem at all with this shaver are the same ones I've always had. I have never figured out exactly how hard to press the shaver to my face to get the best results, and I always have trouble with my upper lip. Now, if any of my fellow "Tell Mr. Steel Beard" fans could offer any help in those areas, I would be VERY grateful!

Gary, thanks again for maintaining one of the best sites on the net !!!!!

With deepest respect,

Roy Cline

You're welcome, Roy.  Thanks for the report and inquiry.  I'm hoping that other happy users of Norelco Spectra and Philishave Sensotec shavers (which are one and the same) will come to Roy's rescue.

From: Grant

Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2003 5:45 AM

Hi there

Just discovered your web page, and I'm impressed !

As a lot of the other guys have said, I'm a long time blade user, who is just converting to electric for comfort and ease of shaving.

I just need help on choice between a Phillishave Quadra 3 head rotary, or a Remington TCT3 foil shaver.

I want something that gives a real close shave, but doesn't iritate my skin. I dont have a particularly heavy beard, but do want something that will give me a nice clean shave, that will last. I usually shave in the evening, so with a blade shave, I am always clean during the next day - until the evening.

I have recently tried a Remington 3 head rotary. I think it was an 850 ? anyway, I wasn't very happy with the closeness of the shave, and the time it took going over the same area repeatedly to get any result. I did try my fathers ancient twin foil Remington, and found that it gave a closer shave, but wouldn't take every whisker off, especially any longer ones on my neck. I am tempted by the Norelco / Phillips, because from all accounts they seem to last well and blades/heads don't seem to need replacing too often, and that needs to be taken into account.

My fathers old Remington twin foil chomped through the foil after I'd used it around a half dozen times, but it was fairly old anyway. It's now unuseable as it cuts me to bits, and I don't imagine the cutter or foils are available for it anymore. It's probably around 15-20yrs old.

I am tempted by the new Remington TCT3 foil, as I know Dads old foil, did a better job than the new Remington 850 3 head rotary, but is it that the 850 is just not that great, and maybe a Phillips Quadra would give me the closeness in shave that I want ??

Your help and advice would be much appreciated.

Cheers from New Zealand

Grant.

Thanks for your inquiry, Grant.  Because I use a Philishave Quadra 3-head shaver myself, my opinion would be hopelessly biased.  The Remington MicroScreen 3 TCT foil model is the best Remington shaver offered I believe based on feedback.  I'm hoping that anyone who has compared a Remington MicroScreen 3 TCT and a Philishave/Norelco Quadra shaver personally can reply here.  I hope this helps.

From: "Stephen R. Diamond" <sdiamond@veatchfirm.com>

Date: Friday, March 14, 2003 6:29 PM

Gary,

A clarification, a theory, and a question--

The clarification. Yes, I meant Braun XP when I wrote FX.

The theory. Does one's face or beard actually require time to adapt to a shaver? What could possibily be the mechanism? I think the result improves with time not because the face adapts, but because the person shaving does. Over time, one becomes more proficient in using a particular model.

For example, take shaving against the grain, one of the more important tricks. It isn't always easy to do. I don't know whether there are individual differences in the direction of the grain, but my beard grows on a diagonal, upward and toward the body on each side. I avoid the awkwardness of positioning my hand correspondingly with the Braun Synchro. Its 4-directional movement permits cutting on the horizontal stroke, against the grain for me at least, not merely on the vertical stroke as with other foil shavers. Rotary shavers solve the problem automatically, but there are other skills to learn, such as the proper degree of force to exert and the optimal speed at which to move the shaver over the face.

If shaving is a skill learned over time, some users may never learn various key tricks, not because they are stupid, but because there is an element of luck in stumbling upon each one, often outside of conscious awareness. This would seem to imply that comparisons of shavers by asking for user preferences has limited validity, since the preference might be as much the result of proficiency with that kind of shaving instrument as of any intrinsic capability of the razor. Perhaps the better question pertains to which model the _satisified_ user of a shaver type prefers, and to what degree. Satisfied users of the type comprise a sample which has probably mastered the tricks pertaining to that kid of shaver, allowing their preferences to reflect the quality of the instrument.

The question follows from the theory. I wonder whether users of the Norelco Spectra who have gotten a fast, close, irritation-free shave with the Norelco Reflex Action and/or the Norelco Quadra have found the Spectra _substantially_ superior to these earlier models?

Stephen Diamond

Thanks for your new note, Stephen.  The face does require time to adjust to the new shaver.  There may be initially a lot of irritation (read Neck Hand's comments immediately below for his experinece with the Philishave Sensotec (aka Norelco Spectra) before the shave becomes more comfortable.  It could be either a learning curve or just your face getting used to the new shaver.  Most of the time, I use a Philishave Quadra but I occasionally use a Reflex Action when on the go and I acutually used an old Philishave Micro Action model (an HS775) to try it out again after getting a two-day growth of whiskers after getting a comment about how he got a good shave after going back to his old Micro Action Norelco model.  Of course, I always encourage other ideas as I don't have a Sensotec/Spectra shaver to compare with.

From: nick.hand@kwp.com.au

Date: Friday, March 14, 2003 7:27 AM

Gary

It's been some months since my last contribution to Tell Me Steel Beard. In that posting, I took a swipe at the Philishave Sensotec, and praised the Braun Flex XP. Regular readers may recall I trialled the Sensotec but returned it after experiencing too much irritation, and fell back to the Braun with great results.

But, it's amazing the difference a few months can make. My well meaning partner (knowing how much of a electric shaver fan and James Bond fan I am) bought me the Sensotec 8894 for Christmas, not realising it was the same shaver I returned a couple of months earlier. Wanting to keep the peace, I thought I'd better do the right thing and give the Philishave another go, and if we needed to return this one, at least I could tell her I gave it a fair trial - again. The first week was hell, with almost unbearable irritation, the second week was marginally better, but in the third week, nothing. I couldn't believe it. I was getting a shave that was as easily as close as a blade with no irritation what so ever, and it literally was an overnight thing; irritation to no sensation what so ever. In fact I am able to do something I have never been able to previously with any shaver, and that is shave twice in one day without irritation. I don't have a heavy ! beard, no

I am now a Philishave convert. This is a pricey shaver (I should know - I've owned two of them!) but is a fine piece of equipment. I can't make comment of comparisons between this and previous Philishave models as this is the only one I have used. What I can say is that if you have sensitive skin like I do, at least give it a go. After having used it now for almost three monhts, in my opinion it beats the Brauns and Panasonics hands down for both comfort and closeness, and don't get me wrong, I have had good results with both of these brands. The only negative is my average shave time is about 10 minutes. A bit more than I have been used to but I can put up with that.

Gary, I am wondering if you or any of your readers might be able to explain why I have had two different experiences with this shaver? My first trial was for 4 weeks and the irritation got worse with each week, and the second trial went from whoa to go overnight. Each time, I have had the shaver dialled to the most 'sensitive' setting.

Thanks and kind regards

Nick Hand

Thanks for your new note, Nick.  My theory as to why you face couldn't adjust the new Philishave Sensotec (aka Norelco Spectra) three months ago and why it successfully adjusted now could be weather conditions.  Have you tried a pre-shave preparation either then or now?  I have a tough time shaving during humid weather during the Summer which requires using a pre-shave at that time of year.  While it's late Winter with Spring approaching here in the American state of Michigan, it is quite the opposite in Australia where it is now late Summer is turning into Autumn.  Was the weather humid three months ago where you are in Australia?  That's my opinion.  Any other ideas, anyone?

From: "Allen, Clive" <Clive.Allen@pinkroccade.co.uk>

Date: Thursday, March 13, 2003 5:14 AM

Hi,

I happened to read Tracy's heartfelt plea for a double-headed "basic" rotary shaver. I used to use a Philishave "Double / Rota Action" some years ago although I'm now using one of the new Quadras (HQ7515), which I find gives the best electric shave I've ever had. I purchased this, via the internet, from the Olympic Shaver Centre, Nottingham, England (http://www.shavers.co.uk/). I noticed when browsing through their product list that they still sell the Philishave HQ340 which, if I'm not mistaken, is a "Double Action" shaver that doesn't have "Lift and Cut". It sells for £25.00 (British Pounds) (about $40.00) and operates between 100 - 240v so it should be viable in the USA. Delivery is free within Great Britain, but Tracy could contact Olympic to confirm availalbilty, viability and shipping costs. Hope this helps.

Regards,

Clive

Thanks for your help, Clive.  However, the Double Action shaver IS a Lift & Cut model.  It's the Rota Action which is NOT Lift & Cut.  As I'm familiar with both, I can say that the Rota Action has a different cam design compared to the Double Action models, which have an identical cam design with the Micro Action and Micro+ models.  Tracy is trying to obtain a Rota Action model which uses the HQ2 (formerly HP1917) Philishave/Norelco heads.  Those are hard to find, but there are places which may still have them as Dennis Trigubetz mentions below.

From: dctrig

Date: Thursday, March 13, 2003 1:12 AM

RE: March 10, 2003 post by Roman Porkat

There is one store in Las Vegas, NV that still carries corded Rota shavers, model 242LC, made in China, priced at $34.99. When I visited Village East Drugs a few months ago they had two left. I would imagine they could do a mail order. Their number is 702-736-7018. Jim Stanley is the owner.

If the corded are sold out, they did also have two cordless Rotas, model 282XL, made in China, @ $49.99. If all else fails, the reader could ask the drugstore for their order source, I believe a catalog operation in Wisconson. Hope this helps.

Dennis Trigubetz

dctrig@msn.com

Thanks for the tip, Dennis.

From: Andrew Kranjc

Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2003 2:51 PM

Regarding Stephen Diamond's comments: I never tried a Norelco Quadra and although I experienced the rash on my lower neck with the Spectra, the rest of my face had no problem adapting. The Spectra was very fast and close, even on my irritated lower neck.

I used the Syncro for over two years and thought it shaved closer than previous Braun's. I attributed this to the oscillating heads, but my comparison was to an older Braun Flex Intregral. The newer design of the Flex XP seems to shave just about as close as the Syncro. I really don't know why as the Flex XP does seems to use technology more similar to the older design of the Flex Integral. Maybe this will assist Roy Cline in making his decision.

Both the Syncro and Flex XP do take longer to shave my beard than the Spectra did, however: About four to five minutes with the Spectra and seven to eight minutes with the Braun's. I think the reason is that on my skin and beard the Braun's require more passes to get a close shave, especially on the neck area, but I find the Braun's are relatively irritation free.

Again, I find myself agreeing with Solomon Myers. I too believe that the replacement cutters and foils for the Flex XP will become readily available by the time replacement is needed. I've had foils become damaged prematurely, though, and would hate to wait for them to be shipped to me, resulting in my being unable to use the shaver for a few days. My hope was that someone would post a tip as to a retailer that currently sells the replacement foils and cutters for the Flex XP. I also think the trimmer on the Flex XP is very effective, but did not find it quite as easy to use as Mr. Myers. I had trouble seeing what I was trimming, but didn't make any errant cuts or slice off my ear. Guess I do prefer the traditional trimmer where you hold the shaver parallel to the area you're trimming rather than holding it at a ninety-degree angle to the area trimmed as with the Flex XP. This is just my personal preference

Although I've been posting as a foil user, I'm still a big Norelco fan so I guess I have a foot in each camp. In fact, in the past couple weeks I woke up several times amused after having dreams that I was effortlessly shaving with a blue Norelco Spectra. I suppose this must certify me as a confirmed electric shaver obsessionist!

Thanks for your note comparing different shavers, Andrew.

From: "Thomas Press" <thospress@yahoo.com>

Date: Monday, March 10, 2003 4:58 PM

I was curious about the comment made recently questioning whether the earlier Norelco Micro Action might actually produce a closer shave. With that in mind, I fired by my old Norelco 985RX and was astounded to discover that it does (for me) produce a closer shave than either my current Norelco Spectra or just recently retired 5885XL Reflex Action (which I also tried). The Spectra has the newest set of blades, is by far the quietest of the 3, and, given its more articulated head, is also best at getting into tight places, but it is not the closest shave - amazing! Any thoughts on why that might be the case?

Thanks again for a great site.

Tom Press

Thanks for your inquiry, Tom.  As I have an example of a Micro Action shaver, a Philishave HS775 corded model, I do have some theories.  The microgroove which is unique to the Micro Action (and the new Micro+) heads do help.  That gets the skin closer to the cutters than any other Philishave/Norelco model.  The down side to this is that for those with more sensitive skin that it gets more skin layers as well as whiskers.  But that's where the closeness comfort adjustment on your 985RX comes in.  The new Micro+ heads have improved Lift & Cut heads (also on the Sensotec/Spectra models) which lift the whiskers higher than before for an even closer shave.  The Reflex Action, Quadra and Sensotec/Spectra models have head assemblies which adjust to the contours of your face whilst only the heads themselves adjust on the Micro Action models.  So my feeling is that it's the microgroove on the heads which make a difference in your case.  Of course, other opinions are welcome.  I hope this helps.

From: Perry Papantonis

Date: Monday, March 10, 2003 3:28 PM

I have a question regarding the Braun XP line (5600, 5612, and 5614). They are advertised all over as "wet/dry " razors but no one talks about using them in the shower with gel/foam and the instructions from the Braun website do no discuss using "wet," just that they can be cleaned by running under water. In addition, the Braun website provides choices for products only for "dry shavers," not wet/dry models. So,I am confused with the XP's capabilities. Please help.

Perry

Thanks for your question, Perry.  From the comments I've received, these "dry shavers" which are waterproof are waterproof for cleaning purposes only as they are not intended to be used wet and perform better when used as dry shavers.  Of course, other comments are welcome.  I hope this helps.

From: Roman Porkat

Date: Monday, March 10, 2003 1:00 AM

I am SOO happy that I stumbled upon your website. I have a dire problem that I would like some help with. My husband is in drastic need of a new shaver. My main problem is simply this, after trying to buy new "American" styles, he sends me back to the store to return them. He is originally European, AND has very sensitive skin. Because of this, he refuses to use anything that has the triple head action and because of his sensitive skin, he cannot use the lift and cut. He is currently using a standard (OLD) style Norelco double head shaver. I would like to know if anyone out there has any information where I can purchase a simple double headed shaver in the United States. I need one that can be plugged in, used, and one that doesn't have all the fancy gadgets that they have nowadays! I have searched through website after website only to be disappointed when I finally find a double headed shaver and then discover it has "lift and cut". Can you please give me some idea's? His b-day is this month and I would be thrilled to find a new shaver for him! Thanks for the feedback and for your time.

Regards,

Tracy

Thanks for your question, Tracy.  Unfortunately, in looking at the global Philishave web site, Philips has discontinued the Rota Action line of non-Lift & Cut shavers.  You may be able to find something on the Internet, but other than new HQ20 battery shavers from Turkey, they are pretty hard to find.  You could try the search engines, but make sure the Philishave/Norelco shavers use the HQ2 Rota Action heads as replacement heads are still readily available.

From: "Stephen Diamond" <stephend15@mindspring.com>

Date: Sunday, March 09, 2003 6:59 PM

I am trying to assess two shavers, and in certain ways I find the reports confusing.

1. Norelco Spectra. It appears to be a Quadra with an additional feature, a comfort control for skin tenderness and beard toughness. Yet, you see reports that the shave is closer, even dramatically closer, than that obtained with an ordinary Quadra or Reflex Action Norelco. You also see reports of razor burn, even among users who have shaved comfortably with a Quadra. I would infer that people are getting a closer shave because they use a "tough" setting, whereas the Quadra is probably set for moderate toughness. This would also explain the razor burn; users sometimes use an excessively "tough" setting for their beard and skin type. Does this seem right?

2. Braun Flex FX. Users report that this shaver shaves equally closely as a Braun Synchro. This surprises me. Some seem to mistakenly think that its self-cleaning mechanism defines the Synchro type, but there are presently Synchro models incapable of cleaning themselves. The defining feature of the Synchro is the four-way motion of the cutters. Braun claims it minimizes skin contact, alleviating razor burn. I have found that the Synchro provides a substantially closer shave than any other shaver I have tried: Norelco Quadra, Reflex Action, and Micro Action, Braun Flex Integral, Remington Rotary TCT, and Panasonic Linear. (The distant second was the Braun Flex Integral, and the third best in overall satisfaction, the Norelco Reflex Action (the version with an adjustable head flexion. By far the worst was the Remington, inferior in every respect.)

I wonder if others confirm the claims that the FX shaves as closely as the Synchro. If so, it must have some feature the Synchro does not have, because, all else being equal, the 4-way action really does work. I am wondering whether it might not have a faster motor. If it truly equals the Synchro, I for one would prefer a water-cleanable model like the FX to a machine or hand-cleanable model such as the Synchro.

An experiences or inferences would be most welcome.

Stephen

Thanks for your inquiry, Stephen.  Do you mean the Braun Flex XP when you refer to the FX?  The XP has been getting a lot of comments lately and I hope that the XP users as well as users of the other shavers you mention will help you out.

From: Solomon Myers

Date: Friday, March 07, 2003 2:21 AM

More comments about the Braun 5614 Flex XP:

For those who are concerned about the Braun 5614 trimmer, I respectfully disagree with George's comment about it being useless. I believe the trimmer is designed to be used with the long side of the razor (and the trimmer which runs parallel to the long side of the razor) at a 90 degree angle to the surface of your face. When I use the trimmer this way, I get a perfectly sharp sideburn edge without much work. Better than almost all other sideburn trimmers I've used in the past. I do not find this to be an awkward angle as it permits me to see everything. It is also the angle to strive for generally when shaving with a foil razor.

This positioning of the trimmer on the razor is certainly a departure from the "pop up" trimmers found on other Braun razors. However, I believe this to be one Braun's better changes. The trimmer feels more solid, both when using it and when moving it in and out of trimming position. It means that there are fewer moving parts, which helps to keep production costs down and breakage to a minimum. This design also helps the trimmer portion of the razor to drain and air dry more easily after washing.

As for Andy's comments about availability of replacement parts for the Braun 5614, Braun has a solid history of supporting their products with replacement parts, even long after discontinuing a given model's production. The Flex XP is relatively new. I will go on record as predicting wide availability of the Flex XP replacement parts when the time comes for replacement. In addition, Braun sells replacement parts directly by simply calling their 800 number (or at least they used to as of a few years ago).

By the way, its nice to see foil razor users participating more actively in this forum. Again, many thanks to our host, Gary, who laboriously maintains the site.

Thanks for the additional comments, Solomon.

From: Cline, Roy

Date: Thursday, March 06, 2003 10:31 AM

Gary,

I wanted to say thank you to all those who have been kind enough to write and try to answer my question about the Braun Flex XP 5614. It is VERY much appreciated! Ok, here's my question, or maybe it's a "quest". I'm a long, long time Norelco user, and have suddenly felt the desire to experiment with a foil shaver. This is something I've never tried. I've narrowed my choices down to two models, both Braun. The reader polls at this website (the BEST site on the web, by the way!) seem to favor Braun a lot. I don't want the Syncro, simply because the regular replacement of the cleaning cartridge would involve environmental issues I would prefer to avoid. Therefore, I'm down to either the Flex XP 5614 or the Braun Flex Integral Ultra Speed 6520. (Just FYI, both models are available on EBAY, new in their box, for less then $40). I would very much appreciate hearing any thoughts or comments which Gary, or my many fellow "Tell Mr. Steelbeard" fanatics would be willing to share !

Thanks, Gary, as always !!

Roy Cline

You're welcome, Roy and thanks for your reply and I thank everyone who has replied to Roy's inquiry.  As I have no desire to switch to a foil shaver, I'm hoping that the foil shaver mavens reading this will reply here.

From: Andrew Kranjc

Date: Wednesday, March 05, 2003 9:23 PM

In response to Solomon Myers, I agree that the cord on the Braun Flex XP is not fragile and in fact I will put one of the Velcro ties I use to bundle my computer equipment wires on the cord to secure it when traveling. This is a minor criticism and I will just pack the cord separately in my luggage when I travel as he suggests. Guess I just got spoiled by the design of the Syncro deluxe travel pouch which isn't much larger than the Flex XP hard case and does allow storage for both the shaver and the cord together.

Sincerely,

Andy

Thanks for your reply to Solomon's note, Andy.

From: Solomon Myers

Date: Wednesday, March 05, 2003 8:27 PM

This is a response for Roy Cline. The Flex XP 5614 head does pivot. It does not lock into a fixed position for tough spots. However, the pivoting motion seems to be somewhat stiffer than my previous Flex Integral Ultra Speed. I have not really had any need to lock the razor in place to get at the "tough" spots. I did have to do this with my previous razor because it pivoted so easily.

I have been using the razor for some time now and am still very happy with the shaving results. That said, you really do have to use it for a few weeks to let your beard adjust. The initial shave I got was good. However, it improved greatly as my face adjusted.

In response to Andrew Kranjc's comments about the cord not fitting into the case, this allows for the case to be smaller and easier to fit into your luggage. If you will be gone for a long enough time that you would need to recharge the razor, the cord can simply be thrown in another part of your luggage. It is not really that fragile that it needs the protection of a case.

Happy shaving to all.

Thanks for your reply, Solomon.

From: Andrew Kranjc

Date: Wednesday, March 05, 2003 10:46 AM

Saw the question about the Braun Flex XP posted by Roy Cline. Ironically, I was at a place called BJ's Wholesale Club and found the Braun Flex XP for $64.99. This was too good a deal to pass up so I bought it and took the Syncro 7680 back. I was still wary of the cost of the Syncro and the cleaning cartridges.

In between, in an attempt to try all the popular brands, I tried a Remington MS2 100 corded model which was on closeout for $29.99 at the Remington Store. Wanted to get away from batteries ala Gary Flinn, but in my bathroom the cord kept coming out. It also made my face sore, didn't seem to shave that closely for me and was very loud. There's just something about the thin foils and high-speed motors on the Remington and Panasonic Linears that doesn't work for me. So the Remington got returned too.

But back to the Flex XP: The lock feature is not mentioned in the instruction manual nor is there a detent position for it on the Flex XP; it is either down for regular shaving or up for the trimmer. I suppose one could put it in the "in-between" position, but this does not lock the shaver like on other Braun models and the head still has some play. I feel it gives as good a shave as the Syncro 7680, even without the ability to lock the head, and was less than half the price. The drawbacks I mentioned about the Flex XP in my previous posting still hold, but I've learned to live with them: I've been waiting to wash the Flex XP until I'm sure I'm finished touching up and will live with not having a plastic cap and the ability to store both the cord and the shaver in the hard case. I still feel the Norelco Spectra's I tried shaved as well and faster than both the Syncro and Flex XP, but were very costly, not to mention the infamous rash I got on my throat from the Norelco's. The Braun Flex XP offers me the best compromise and I don't have a lot invested so I can always try the new models when they come out. Thus, should I find something better than the Flex XP, I won't lose a ton of money in the quest for the perfect electric shaver.

To get rid of the rash, I've tried to limit my shaving time to 5 minutes per a tip I found on one of your links. I spend minimal time on the throat area so as not to further aggravate the rash. I also started using a pricey product ($13) called Razor Rash Relief by Moore Unique which is getting rid of the rash, albeit slowly.

Incidentally, although I looked at every store I could think of, none seem to carry the replacement foils and cutters for the Flex XP. However, if one does an internet search, some vendors have the part, #505, listed. Hope this doesn't cause me a problem when I need replacements.

Sincerely,

Andy

Thanks for your reply, Andy.

From: Petergg4@aol.com

Date: Wednesday, March 05, 2003 9:06 AM

In response to Mr. Cline's inquiry about the Braun 5614 Flex...The head does not lock like the Syncro and the sideburn trimmer is useless..you have to hold the trimmer at an awkward angle and you do not have any control ...the shave is as good as the Syncro but I am back to using the Syncro as the locked head and sideburn trimmer are important options for me

George Gentekos

Thanks for your reply, George.

From: <nteeman@pipeline.com>

Date: Wednesday, March 05, 2003 8:09 AM

Hi Gary,

In response to Roy Cline's question about the Braun Flex XP 5614. No, the head does not lock--it swivels all the time. I have not found this to be a problem in any way. After a very short time I have found that I do not notice the head movement at all. I must say that I am very pleased with the performance of the razor as well as the excellent shave I get with it. If I would have to list a fault it would be the position of the on-off switch, I find that I accidently turn off the razor at least once per shave, but if that is the only fault I can live with that. :-)

Peace,

Neal

Thanks for your reply, Neal.

From: Cline, Roy

Date: Monday, March 03, 2003 11:31 AM

Hi, Gary, and as always, thanks for running the most informative site on the web! ;D

I wanted to ask a question regarding Andrew Kranjc's review of the Braun 5614, below. Andy mentions that one of the things he didn't like about the 5614 was that the head didn't lock in place. I am seriously considering the Flex XP, but I wanted to ask about this because I was under the impression that the head would pivot, and that it could be locked into position when necessary. Am I wrong about this? Is this feature as useful as I have assumed it to be, on hard to get at spots?

Thanks, as always Gary!

Roy Cline

Thanks for your note, Roy.  Can any Braun Flex XP users help out with their opinions?

From: Jack Mazafi

Date: Saturday, March 01, 2003 1:01 PM

Has anybody found that the cheaper micro action Norelcos shave better than the Quadra's, or is it just me? Could it be because my micro actiion razor is a corded model and is more powerful than my cordless Quadra action? Gary, I know you use a corded model, is it more powerful than a cordless?

-Jack Mazafi

Thanks for your inquiry, Jack.  I've been recharging my Philishave HQ5865 Reflex Action shaver so I can compare it to my corded Philishave HQ6425 Quadra shaver.  I did a side by side comparison. With today's electronic motors with automatic voltage adaptation circuitry, I found no obvious differences between the rechargable and the corded model.  I hope this helps.

From: Andrew Kranjc

Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2003 7:43 PM

First a bit about my shaving history: Throughout my youth, I used assorted electrics from Remington, Schick, and Ronson along with safety razors on occasion. Maybe five or six years ago, I “made the circuit” trying a newer Remington, a Wahl, a Braun Flex and a top-of-the- line Norelco. I ended up giving away the Remington and Wahl. The Norelco had the old comfort adjustment which actually raised and lowered the blades. If I used the Norelco on the closest setting, I got severe neck irritation so I ended up using it at the “5” setting which corresponded to the normal setting on Norelco’s without the adjustment. This gave a very fast shave with little irritation, but sacrificed closeness. The Braun took longer to shave, but was closer and also relatively irritation free. I kept both of these razors until the batteries died, using a Gillette Sensor Excel for special occasions along with Edge shaving gel.

Upon a friend’s recommendation, about two years ago I bought a Braun Syncro 7526. This was the best yet, giving the closest electric shave I ever got and was irritation free. The only thing I didn’t like was that it took me 6-8 minutes to get a good shave. At times I also used a Mach III with Edge, shaving with the grain as against the grain shreds my face. I get a good shave with the Mach III in 5 minutes, but didn’t like the mess of lathering up. The Mach III blades don’t last more than a few shaves for me and are very expensive.

So a few months back, I started reading the Tell Mr. Steel Beard forum again and read with interest the postings on the Norelco Spectra. It sounded like it was the shaver for me since a wanted a faster shave and a shaver that could be cleaned with water. I was sick of buying the Syncro Cleaning Cartridges. I first purchased the 8865XL (which someone referred to as perhaps James Bond’s butler’s shaver) and validated that it gave a shave as close as the Syncro in only 3-4minutes. Since I thought I’d found the ideal shaver and wanted the best, I exchanged the 8865XL for the real James Bond razor, the 8894XL. I really loved the 8894XL -- the lithium ion batteries, the extensive readouts, the stand and the leather pouch. Unfortunately, I developed a very nasty rash on my lower neck across the Adam’s apple. I stuck with the 8894XL for the requisite 21-day minimum and only used it at the most sensitive setting, but the rash only got worse, leaving me with a glowing red band around the bottom of my neck and peeling skin. Reluctantly, I had no choice but to return the Norelco.

I decided it was time to try again as I had already given away my Braun Syncro 7526 to a friend. Next I tried the Braun Flex XP 5614 which also lived up to claims, giving a shave about as close as the Syncro and taking about the same amount of time as the Syncro to complete a shave. The hard case was nice, but not being able to fit both the shaver and the cord in the case at the same time was quite an oversight. I also didn’t like the fact that it didn’t come with a foil protection cap, but I think I understand Braun’s thinking here since the cap would prevent the shaver from drying out completely after a water washing. Additionally, this shaver lacked the ability to lock the head at an angle, a feature I find quite useful. Although I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Braun Flex XP to anyone who wanted to spend about $80 on a shaver, I decided to look again.

I took the Flex XP back and bought a Panasonic ES8023SC, based on the positive reviews on this forum and elsewhere indicating it gave a fast and close shave. This shaver was perhaps my biggest disappointment. Upon opening the package, I immediately didn’t like the cheesy pouch and charger and the lack of a cleaning brush. I also knew that Panasonic batteries were notoriously unreliable, that the screens and cutters wore out quickly, and that parts were expensive and not easy to find. In spite of all of these negatives, I wanted to give the Panasonic a fair chance and would live with the negatives if it lived up to its performance claims. I started out with wet shaves using a light coating of Edge gel and was greatly disappointed with the shave which wasn’t very close and missed numerous longer hairs. I tried using it dry for a while but got the same results. Surprisingly, I got no razor burn or irritation from the Panasonic, perhaps because I always use a light touch. My apologies to the Panasonic fans out there. I’m certain it works for you as well as you claim, but it just didn’t work for my skin and beard.

I then considered trying a Remington, but couldn’t bring myself to do it after reading about the battery problems and frequency of foil and cutter replacements. I even considered one of the cheaper corded models, but started to remember how loud the old Remington’s I had were, even though they gave an OK shave. So I suppose I should apologize to the Remington crowd out there as well.

So what did I end up with? Another Syncro. For my skin and beard, this seems to be the best compromise. I couldn’t stomach getting another 7526 and since I liked the readouts on the 8894XL, I sprang for a Syncro 7680.

By the way, during these trials, I also tried out Williams Lectric Shave Ultra Gel and Remington Face Saver, both of which I liked. I usually shave before showering without preshave, however, so I’ll probably end up using these only on humid days.

One more point: At first I loved the water washability of the Norelco 8894XL, the Braun Flex XP and the Panasonic ES8023SC, but eventually felt I wanted to go back to the Braun Clean and Charge system in spite of the cost. I know most people love water washability, but I’m the type who always ends up doing touch ups within maybe fifteen minutes of shaving to catch spots I’m not happy with. I found myself water washing these shavers and then wanting to go back and do touch ups. Unfortunately, they were still wet and didn’t do as good a job as when dry for me (even the Panasonic which is designed to be used wet). Even if my Syncro is being cleaned, in 15 minutes it is finished and ready for touchups. The water washable shavers seem to take at least several hours to dry thoroughly.

The only remnant of my recent experience is the rash on my neck which still hasn’t gone away completely. Anybody know any good treatments?

Sincerely,

Andy

Thanks for your extensive note, Andy.  Can anyone reading this recommend a good remedy for Andy's rash?

From: Jack Mazafi

Date: Friday, February 21, 2003 5:17 PM

What's the difference between the Norelco 8894 and 8895 Spectra's?

-Jack Mazafi

Thanks for your question, Jack.  The 8895 is a promotional version of the 8894 which is described in this Tell Mr. Steel Beard posting from last year: . "I looked at the 8895XL at Sears after your posting and had mixed feelings about the logo. The 007 and gun were fine, but superimposing "Die Another Day" was too much of an advertisement."  So the 8895XL Norelco Spectra promotes the James Bond movie "Die Another Day" right on the shaver.  I hope this answers your question.

From: "abc" <akostu@hot.ee>

Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2003 7:33 AM

Hello from Estonia!

Cool site! It seems you have internet site on any subject in USA!

A question:

Philishave 8870 shaver's manual says i have to change shaving heads every 2 years. Is it true? Does shaving quality realy suffer if I will not change the heads that soon (the 3-head set costs USD 35 - big money for a developing country's citizen).

Thanks in advance.

Brdgs, Anton

Thanks for your note, Anton.  The Lift & Cut shavers do get dull over time and even if they are self-sharpening the cutting edge does wear down.  One idea I have to save money (which I'm sure Philips doesn't want me to talk about) is to check out Vollco's shaver sharpeners.  Their #VSH-2 says they sharpen the Sensotec/Spectra line of shavers which includes your 8870 model.  Because Vollco is a sponsored link, just click on the banner on the left side of the screen.  I hope this helps.

From: Jack

Cc: Erincon2@cs.com

Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2003 8:33 PM

Subject: TELL MR. STEEL BEARD

In this E-mail the Braun 5705 is apparently the proper one to cover the 6520 model. I'm not sure why they use different #'s.

Thanks, Jack

NOTE:  This is a reply to a posting made last year:

From: Erincon2@cs.com

Date: Wednesday, December 18, 2002 2:58 AM

I have a Braun 6520, about 2 years old. I like it a lot, but I think the batteries are getting old, because they don't hold the charge anywhere as long as when new. Repair shops charge about $30 to change the batteries, so I oppened it, and inside are two batteries I know I can change myself, even though they are soldered in place.

Do you know what type they are, and if I can purchase them from a battery company?

NOTE: MY ORIGINAL REPLY WAS AS FOLLOWS:

Thanks for your inquiry. I look at the PDF files of Braun service manuals at http://63.230.9.155/braun/Srv_Man/SHAVER/ and could not find your model

Jack

Thanks for the info, Jack.

From: Zahur

Date: Sunday, February 09, 2003 2:07 AM

Subject: TELL MR. STEEL BEARD

Hi

I am shopping around for my first electric shaver. The good old Razor has to go. I would like to know which model of the Philishave is good (recommended) as I am confused after seeing all the models. The sales people (Costco/Wal-mart) were clueless about electric shavers. Below are the models that are in my price range.

Philishave 4000

Philishave 5000

Philishave 6000 (Quadra Action ?)

Philishave 7000

I have been reading about the Norelco brand but I read somewhere on the net that here in Canada it is called Philishave (correct me if I am wrong). I would like to stick with Rotary type with wet & dry option as I don't know how my skin will react, so having both options would be good. I don't know which of the above models are wet & dry.

You assistance is greatly appreciated.

Zahir

I'll try, Zahir and thanks for your note.  All the product lines you mention have the Lift & Cut heads.  The 4000 series are the Micro Action dry shaver line with a microgroove machined into the surface of the individually floating heads which are all-slotted.  The 5000 series are the Reflex Action heads in which the entire head assembly, not just the heads themselves, adjust to your face in a three-dimensional manner for a closer shave.  The old 6000 and new 7000 series are the Quadra models with a combination of holes and slots as well as the Reflex Action head assembly. This shaver is waterproof for cleaning purposes only.  The 7000 series are the Sensotec/Spectra models with a refined combination of holes and slots on the heads with the Reflex Action head assembly plus Super Lift & Cut heads which lift the whiskers higher than the regular Lift & Cut models for a closer shave and the waterproof construction for cleaning purposes only.  For your information, the new 6000 (actually 6700) series are for the wet/dry Cool Skin and Advantage models whose heads are similar to the Reflex Action models.  The old Advantage/Cool Skin models are the 5600 series and the unique selling point of the Cool Skin/Advantage wet/dry models is a built-in Nivea For Men lotion dispenser to give you a more soothing shave.  Yes, the shavers are sold in Canada (and the rest of the world outside the USA) under the Philishave name.  So Norelco shavers are sold only in the USA.  I hope this helps.

From: love2ski_utah@excite.com

Date: Saturday, February 08, 2003 5:02 PM

Hello!

I have a Norelco 5885XL and the batteries can't hold a charge anymore. I found out through your forum that the batteries are 2 - NiCd 1.2V 600mAh.

Do I have to replace the batteries with the same mAh capacity or can I upgrade to a higher capacity? Can I use NiMh batteris instead? I have a pair of 1800 mAh NiMh batteries, but am unsure if this will mess up the computer which monitors and displays the number of shaves left. Sure would be nice to triple the battery life without memory effect!

Thanks,

Glenn

Thanks for your note, Glenn. I recall a similar inquiry I made with Philips and they replied that the recharging circuitry is different between the NiCad and NiMH models so the batteries are not interchangeable, sorry to say.

From: James Roseland

Date: Saturday, February 08, 2003 5:12 PM

Hi Gary!

Thanks for providing a forum for electric shaving questions and answers. I'd like to add my thoughts to the helpful response you gave Alec Bau regarding his possible switch from Panasonic to Norelco.

I was a lifelong Norelco user, when I switched a year ago to Panasonic. At the beginning of my shaving years, I used blades, and then, for a longer time, an early model Schick electric (a gift from my dad). The cutter "bars" inside the Schick gave a terrible shave compared to a safety razor, but at least they didn't slice my face to shreds the way blades did. I then discovered Norelco, a razor which gave a much closer shave than the Schick and was actually comfortable! I stuck with rotary shaving for the next forty-plus years.

I tried a Panasonic (actually, a National) Linear about a year ago, as a courtesy to my wife, who brought one home for me from a trip to Japan. After three minutes of shaving with it, my face was so red and irritated, it felt like I was on fire. Naturally, I politely thanked my spouse for her thoughtfulness, and stuffed the National under the bathroom sink.

Curiosity got the best of me a few months later, however, after reading this column and learning that giving one's face some "adjustment time" when trying out a new shaving system is absolutely necessary. (I had always thought the idea of "facial adjustment time" was a myth. It's not!) I then decided to give the Linear a week to prove itself, and, to my amazement, it did. The irritation slowly went away, and what was left was a surprisingly close shave: so close that, at first, I didn't believe it. However, after repeat shaves proved that the closeness was no fluke, I was hooked. I am now embarrassed to admit (because for so many years I've been a staunch Philips advocate... and collector!) that I have become a convert (back) to foil shaving.

The bottom line for me is this: the Linear shave is the closest I've ever experienced. My face is absolutely smooth when I'm finished: no stubble, no missed spots, and, what's more, no five o'clock shadow. Of course, I can only vouch for the performance of the Linear. I haven't tried lower-end Panasonics, nor have I tried high-end shavers from other makers, like the Braun Syncro, which may do just as well. The Linear has the added advantage over Philips of being completely waterproof (not just for rinsing, but for in-shower shaving) and amazingly easy to clean. Even dry cleaning with a brush is quick and simple, especially when I compare it to cleaning the Philips system of multi-bladed cutters, cutter guards (which must stay matched to their blades), a plastic retaining frame, and a hair chamber with drive posts in it. The number of "nooks and crannies" in a Philips head assembly is daunting, to say the least!

Linears do have their downsides, however. A full charge (which takes about an hour) produces, for me, enough power for only four or five shaves. The relatively small head(compared to Norelco/Philips triple-headers) means it takes longer to "cover the territory" of my face. (This may explain why I get so few shaves out of a charge, although I think it has more to do with the amount of electricity it takes to power a cutter moving back and forth at 13,000 times per minute.) And the overall life of the shaver, if Alec's experience, with his lasting only four years, is typical, may not be something to write home about.

Still, a two-light Panasonic 8023 Linear is $89 at Target and, last I looked, $79 at Best Buy (probably even lower than that on eBay), which is not an outrageous every-four-year outlay. (I spend that much on groceries every week!) Granted, 3D Linears go for more, and the new Lamdashes (available in Japan only, so far) are about $300, but my experience is that the 3D heads (translate: the entire head assembly, and not just the foil, is divided into three independently suspended sections) on these models only provide extra comfort, and not extra closeness. (I've just begun using a new Lamdash in my weekly shaver "rotation," and the jury is still out regarding the effects of its broader cutting blades, angled [and very bouncy!] head, and increased [at least the pitch of the motor is higher than other Linears] speed.)

Norelco Quadras and Spectras (I've tried them both) fall into the same price range as the fixed-head Linears, but, even with a comfort adjuster (on the Spectra/Sensotec), don't seem to do a much better job of shaving than the old (and current) Reflex Action models, where a little bit of face fuzz at the end of each shave has been always been a fact of life for me.

Yes, I had to be dragged away, kicking and screaming, from rotary shaving. (I still collect Norelco/Philips shavers because there are so many colors, special editions, and variations.) But, in the end, being able to rub my hand across my face three hours after shaving, and still feel nothing but skin, is worth it!

Best,

Jim Roseland

Thanks for your comments, Jim.

From: Alec Bau

Date: Friday, February 07, 2003 6:23 PM

Gary, thanks for very informative reply!

I've also was glad to notice that you active on a Philishave Yahoo Group. Below is a copy of my new posting there. It's about initial impressions of Spectra 8892XL plus some questions. If feel it's worth posting on Mr. Steel Beard forum please to do so.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I took a plunge and drove home from Costco some Spectra 88992XL for a test drive. So far I'm more like struggling with it compared to Panasonic Linear (RIP :) and Braun Flex Integral Ultra. Very slow - it takes me 12 min for a decent (fine grain sand paper :) shave. Panasonic achieves much closer shave in 8 min tops. On a positive side Spectra is extremely quiet and even on Normal comfort setting leaves no irritation which was my main problem with Braun Syncro and old Norelco Action Reflex. It feels even gentler on skin than Panasonic without terrible racket and vibration of latter. Spectra's motor seems to be a bit faster than truly lethargic Norelco Reflex Action.

Given its excellent design, quietness and long battery life I would love to keep Spectra. I shaved with it only few times and noticed that closeness slightly improves each time. I'll keep it for at least 3 weeks (it has 60 day money back) and then report back to you.

I want to ask you about some strange charging effect with Spectra. I did initial charge for 4 hours like manual suggested but LCD display showed only 55 min instead of promised 70 minutes. I depleted the charge in 4-5 uses and recharged it again after LCD told me to do so. And again fully charged LCD showed just 55 minutes! Any ideas why is that? Maybe I have a faulty Spectra specimen?

Another question is about Spectra models. As 2 top level models Norelco site lists 8894XL and 8890XL. But I looked on eBay and there're plenty of 8895XL and 8892XL models that correspond to 8894XL and 8890XL respectively. Mine is also 8892XL. What's the deal with these odd 8895/92 models?

Thanks!

Thanks for forwarding your new comments here, Alec.  I wish I had the answer to the odd recharging display on your new Spectra.  There could be a problem with your shaver.  As for the differences between the models, I checked the Norelco and Costco web sites and noticed that the only difference between the 8892XL you got from Costco and the similar 8890XL found on the Norelco web site is a bonus cordless nose and ear hair trimmer in the 8892XL package.  The even numbered models have NiMH batteries (except for the high end 8894XL with Li-Ion batteries) and the odd numbered models have NiCad batteries.  The other variations could be colour differences.  The corresponding Philishave Sensotec models with the HQ prefixes are similar.  I hope this helps.

From: <nteeman@pipeline.com>

Date: Friday, February 07, 2003 9:08 AM

Alec,

In short I would advise to stay with Panasonic or Braun. This is my longer explanation: After many years of blade shaving I purchased a Philishave 8445, the corded version of the Spectra/Sensotec. I used it for a few months and found it to be a good shave. Then as an experiment I tried my old Braun 3512 that I had from the early 90's.

To my surprise I found it gave me a better shave! Unfortunately it was falling apart so I poped for a new Braun Flex XP 5614 and I must admit I am getting the best electric shave I ever got.(I did'nt want the Syncro system because I didn't want to have to keep buying their cleaning cartrige refills--the Flex XP washes under the faucet!)

Now I know there are those who swear by Norelco/Philishave and I don't doubt that they are getting good results with their razors, but everyone's beard is different and if you had better results with a foil type razor in the past I don't think the Spectra will change that. I have tried the Philips rotary shavers over the years and always found the foil to work better on me. I tried again and I think the Braun is better for my beard.

Hope this helps.

Neal

I'm sure it will, Neal.  Thanks for your input.

From: Alec Bau

Date: Tuesday, February 04, 2003 12:55 AM

Hi, Gary!

Haven't been around for some time and glad to see that this awesome forum is alive and kicking!

My trusted Panasonic Linear broke down after 4 years (says something about its construction) and I'm considering my 2nd foray into Norelco shavers with Spectra. 1st time it was Reflex Action few years ago and basically I hated it. Very slow compared to Panasonic and Braun, on high sensitivity settings gives a dismal shave, on low - irritation.

Since then Norelco went through few models hopefully getting better. What'd you think, given my prior experience with Norelco Reflex Action, does it make sense even bother to try Spectra? Is Spectra's shaving system really an improvement over Reflex Action? Is motor any faster? Also do they still continue to use antiquated NiCd batteries with memory effect (Panasonic and Braun have NiMh)?

Many thanks,

Alec

Thanks for your inquiry, Alec.  The Spectra and Sensotec shavers are a refinement of the Quadra shavers which has a combination of holes and slots with the holes cutting the shorter whiskers and having a thinner shaving surface compared to the slots which get the longer whiskers.  The Sensotec/Spectra adds slots where the three heads meet each other and still has sets of holes, but it's mostly slots.  The Sensotec/Spectra also brings back the closeness/comfort adjustment which was discontinued after the first generation of Reflex Action models which had them (that you hated).  Only the high-end 8894 Sensotec/Spectra model has the advanced Li-Ion batteries.  On the Norelco models, the lower end Spectra models still use NiCads.  I believe the motors are similar with the current generation of Philishave/Norelco models.  The main reason I like my Quadra models, which the Sensotec/Spectra shavers also have, is the easy rinsing under the faucet for this waterproof shaver for cleaning purposes only.  Outside North America, Philips, which makes Norelco shavers, offers NiMH versions of their shaver under the Philishave name, the NiMH models have even-numbered model numbers.  The NiCad models have odd-numbered model numbers.  When I used the closeness/comfort adjustment, I like it in the middle position because of the problems you mention with the two extremes.  So if you want the Spectra and want the better batteries, then the 8894 is the obvious choice.  I hope this helps.

From: dctrig

Date: Sunday, February 02, 2003 1:11 AM

Hi Gary,

Regarding a recent post from a reader regarding Norelco doubleheader sales: When in Los Angeles in November I visited the Electric Shaver Shop and found that they carried a doublehead Advantage 561X. It is also listed on their website www.electricshavershoponline.com. I believe an employee told me that they can special order other doubleheaders. I enjoyed your recent Grundig ad of the week. When I visited Parks Products in Los Angeles recently, an employee mentioned they had not yet stocked an outlet in Las Vegas. Luckily, Fry's Electronics, a California chain, just opened their first Vegas outlet and carries a good selection of Grundigs. The best buy seems to be the corded FX3 shaver at $60. Your new post about Norelco's legal action in China was interesting. Although Remington shipped their shaver production to China around 1997, they still manufacture most of their foils and screens in Bridgeport, CT (my hometown) and then ship them to China. Could this possibly be a safeguard against illegal copying?

Dennis Trigubetz dctrig@msn.com

Thanks for letting us know, Dennis.  I checked the official Norelco web site at http://www.norelco.com and noticed that they still do not have a double-headed shaver listed.  The Norelco Advantage model 561X you mentioned is a discontinued model, but as you noted is still available in some stores.  My opinion on the legal action in China is that Philips, Norelco's parent, is a major investor in China and their Philips Domestic Appliances & Personal Care unit, which makes Philishave and Norelco shavers, has a shaver factory in the Chinese city of Zhuhai.  So with Philips having such a heavy Chinese investment, the Chinese government wants to keep Philips happy.  Thanks for mentioning the Electric Shaver Shop in Van Nuys, California, USA.  I'll add that store to the list of shaver companies on line.

From: <WestHigh76@netscape.net>

Date: Tuesday, January 28, 2003 2:09 PM

> Hi Gary,

> I thought I might tell you about my experience with a Remington MS3-4000. I was using it for a month or so and found it gave a GREAT shave, great trimmer also. The only problem is that it had a full tilt LCD display that often got confused as to battery life, when to clean ect. Also it has a turbo feature that I found useless. So I traded it in on MS3-2000 which costs a lot less, shaves just as great, eliminates the un-needed features but keeps the essential features such as cord/cordless option and red/green charge indicator lights. If anyone is considering a Remington MS3 model save yourself some money and get the MS3-2000. One more thing, it seems Norelco has gotten out of the doubleheader market in North America but still sells some great full featured ones in Europe. Any idea why? I've also heard buying a European razor and bringing it to the states would cause one a problem when it came time to change batteries. Have you heard that? Thanks!

Thanks for your inquiry and your recommendation of the Remington MS3-2000 shaver.  As for why Norelco discontinued the double header models, I believe it has to do with sales.  They've been selling more tripleheaders.  Philips in Canada only offers a corded doubleheaded shaver, the HQ342 which is a low end model in comparison to what's available elsewhere around the world.  Philishave Quadra Action doubleheaded shavers are readily available from British shaver shops on the Internet, for example.  Whilst replacement heads are readily available (albeit in three-packs in North America), other service parts such as batteries would not readily be available in countries where the model was never available and the batteries do not fit models sold in your country.  In looking at an old multi-lingual guarantee sheet, it mentions that in servicing the product, there may be a delay if the required spare parts are not readily available.  Thanks to the Internet, you can contact service centres with E-mail addresses in any country.  The main thing to be concerned about is making sure you have the right plug.  Most rechargeable shavers sold nowadays have automatic voltage adaptation.  With models that have a voltage switch, make sure the switch is set for 110 volts in the USA.  Plugs on shavers sold in Europe will not fit USA mains outlets.  I hope this helps.

From: "Shame of All Nations" <shameofallnations@hotmail.com>

Date: Sunday, January 26, 2003 10:10 PM

hi, maybe you can help me here.

so, i recently purchased the philishave 5000 series reflex action shaver. works like a charm and is the best i've ever had but here's my problem: i was removing the cutter assembly to clean it and i accidently mixed up the cutters and the heads. what i'm wondering is if i've totally ruined my shaver by mixing up the parts or if over time will they just reset themselves .

any help on this would be appreciated.

thanks

- Cameron

Thanks for your question, Cameraon. No, you did not ruin the shaver. The mixed combs and cutters will reset themselves, but it may take several weeks before optimal shaving performance is restored. I hope this helps.

From: "Robert Ennis" <rj@ennx.com>

Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2003 6:35 AM

Hi Howard,

I don't use the head protector on a daily basis because it serves no purpose. It's okay for traveling. Because the shaver is rinsed every day, it needs the air to dry. The protector just keeps it moist. It's unnecessary. Nothing is going to come in contact with the heads if they're just sitting there on your bathroom shelf. I also don't find it in any way flimsy or unfit to protect the heads. It's no different than any I've ever used. The shaver stand is a nice little piece of industrial design. You'll notice that the bottom of the shaver gently locks into it and it takes a slight tug at both ends to get it out. I assure you it's safe, and again I want to say that users are lucky to have it because Philishave generally makes you go out an buy one. It wont fall off the stand. I've used similar stands with Philishaves for many years. The two prong plug lack of sensitivity on my part is Canadian, not American. I'm sure Americans would sympathize. Having to wait two hours for the initial charge should have filled you with anticipation and lust for that first shave and provided you with a little more growth time for your beard, so the first shave could be really meaningful.

Regards,

Robert

Thanks for sharing your reply to Howard's reply to your note reproduced below about the Philishave Sensotec (aka Norelco Spectra) shaver, Robert.

From: Shortt, Howard

Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2003 4:15 AM

Hi Guys,

Thanks for your thoughts and opinions, and thanks Gary for including me in the reply too.

In response, I'd mention that my setup at home has the razor in it's stand on a glass shelf above the bathroom sink, if it fell off or was knocked and slipped out of the stand it would fall five feet onto a tiled floor - hence my concern at this.

The two prong plug thing with me is the pure lack of two prong sockets in my house. It's not a bias in any way at all towards my American friends and cousins, the razor was purchased here in Ireland and it still came with the standard two prong plug. This would not have even featured in my review if my house had any two prong sockets.

As for the initial charge, well I'm really into gadgets and electronics and I get a childlike desire to try to things out immediately. So having to wait the two hours before I could have a go of this cool device was disappointing for me.

I'd ask Robert why he does not use the shaving head protector? My opinion is that it's flimsy and essentially not fit for the purpose it was designed for. Would you agree?

Lastly, I'm new to electric shaving which might explain the time I've spent on the review and my minor criticisms of the product. I do think it's great razor and I'm still using it to shave.

On a side note, my wife just bought me a pre-electric shave primer from Clinique, have you guys tried this out? It the most unusual liquid that I've ever put on my face! The instructions say, apply, wait ten seconds and then shave. Let me tell you that you can actually feel the stubble harden. It's like stepping out of the West Edmonton mall in -35 degrees with a wet face!

Cheerio and thanks again for your comments.

Howard

Thanks for sharing your reply to Robert Ennis' comments about your posting about the Philishave Sensotec (aka Norelco Spectra) shaver, Howard.

From: "Robert Ennis" <rj@ennx.com>

Date: Saturday, January 18, 2003 9:40 AM

Hi Gary,

I went to Howard's web site and read the review of the Sensotec. I guess I have to agree with it. It could have been said in a paragraph, but I have time. At the end he lists the good and the bad. The bad list is as follows:

The Bad.

-Expensive (Euro ¤255 - ¤280)

-Razor cannot be charged while in the stand.

-Charging requires a two prong socket.

-When docking the razor to the stand I worry that the razor might fall off.

-The Shaving head protector is flimsy and easily knocked off.

The only point I agree with is the first one. It is over-priced. Charging in the stand shouldn't be an issue because constant charging is a bad thing and charging this thing is so fast, it really doesn't matter where it sits. I don't understand the two prong socket objection. Who cares as long as it charges? North American bias. The stand is a classic kind of stand that most manufacturers no longer include, including Philishave. I'll risk the remote chance of it falling two and have inches. Howard, I'm a veteran user and so far, it hasn't fallen. Don't worry. Shaving head protector flimsy? They're all the same. I don't even use it. Because the shaver is rinsed every day. Who needs it?

I'm always interested in the opinions of users and he makes some valid points. I don't understand his objections to initial charging time. Again, who cares? It's a one time thing.

Nice work anyway Howard. You're obviously very committed and you also appear to have time.

Thanks for your note, Robert.

From: Tony Knapp

Date: Wednesday, January 15, 2003 7:17 AM

Hi,

I've just seen the Scherna Total Grooming system in a shop here in England. It has three interchangeable heads, a shaver, a trimmer and a haircutter. It sounds a very good idea if the shaver works well.

Anyone any experience of this model?

Cheers,

Tony Knapp

Thanks for your note asking if anyone has any experience using the Scherna Total Grooming system, Tony.

From: Shortt, Howard

Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2003 11:28 AM

Hi Gary,

Just wanted to let you know that I have written a review of the Philishave Sensotec 8094 razor, I am currently hosting the review on my site including pictures.

I'd like to share this with you and your readers. http://homepage.eircom.net/~howard/reviews.htm

Cheerio

Howard

Thanks for the link to your review of the Philishave Sensotec HQ8094 shaver, Howard.

From: Brian Brown

Date: Monday, January 13, 2003 2:06 PM

Hello to All,

Bought my first electric (Norelco 8890) after 20 years of blades and am completely satisfied. I can see no discernable difference between that and my Mach 3 shave. I am an everyday shaver with heavy beard, and it took me mere days for my face to adjust to this razor. Trimmer is useless though. However, otherwise I am completely satisfied. I have a Van Dyke and have been able to do a pretty good job keeping my edges with a little help from my beard trimmer. And for the price I paid, I am sitting pretty. This is the reason for my comments today. I got it on E-Bay for only $100 plus shipping, not used. I researched for a few days and followed the prices on several models. In each case, the closing price on E-Bay killed any store listings I could find. There were a few people who overpaid (probably girlfriends), but this is definitely the place to buy your next electric razor. I was extremely helped by this site in making my decision in which razor to buy. I thought readers might like to hear about where.

Brian Brown, MLIS

Communications Librarian

Welch Medical Library

The Johns Hopkins University

bbrown20@jhmi.edu

Thanks for letting us know, Brian.

From: <mmike35@attbi.com>

Date: Saturday, January 11, 2003 10:03 AM

hi, this is a great site. just wondering, you mention that you use a powder stick as a pre-shave, i was thinking about using one with my new norelco spectra. is cleaning it once a week recommended with the powder stick, or more often? thank you very much,

mike

Thanks for your note, Mike.  Cleaning your Norelco Spectra (aka Philishave Sensotec) once a week while using a powder stick is fine with me as that's how often I clean my Philishave Quadra shaver.

From: <pob.home@ntlworld.com>

Date: Thursday, January 09, 2003 5:26 PM

I would just like to say that your site is very helpful.

I have had a Philishave 5806 now for around 4years. I believe that the head or do you call it the blades need changing. I can't seem to find this part any where on the net. Do you know if it is possible to buy the replacement part anywhere?

If you can buy the new part would it cost a lot of money,

I have very sensitive skin and wonder whether it would be better to maybe buy a new razor better suited to sensitive skin.

Your opinion would be greatly appreciated

Regards

Paul

Thanks for your note, Paul.  Actually, the replacement heads for your Philishave Reflex Action shaver are widely available as type HQ5.  Just try Philishave + HQ5 in your search engines and you'll find several on line shops which sell the HQ5 heads.  The pricey Philishave Sensotec shavers with the closeness/comfort adjustment is what Philips is pushing right now for those with sensitive skin but it may be too expensive for you.  I hope this helps.

From: "R A Barrow" <barrow@ptd.net>

Date: Saturday, January 04, 2003 4:32 PM

Gary,

Happy New Year! It's me, Panasonic Boy, writing for the first time since my "rant" on September 15, 2002. Since then I purchased one of the Remington TCT series shavers, tried it and returned it. It lacked battery life, and I had five o'clock shadow by noon. Since then, I alternated between my two Linears and lurked in the Mr. Steel Beard page.

I read with interest comments on the Norelco Spectra series. I purchased one from Tar-'ghay (Target) last week. I kept in mind one of your contributor's comments about the sometimes unnecessary features a top-of-the-line product has versus a lower cost similar model. I bought the Norelco Spectra 8865XL, which is not the James Bond model, but possibly James Bond's butler's shaver. Using a pre-shave lotion, I tried it and am thus far pleased. However, with the razor's price added to the cost of replacement heads (I figured I would plan ahead), my spouse may suggest I grow a beard.

Gary, I have not seen too many comments here about the recent Consumers Report feature on electric shavers. It was not very good, was it? That is why those of us who want to get good information hang with Mr. Steel Beard.

Regards,

"Rick" Barrow

Tannersville, PA

Thanks for the update, Rick.  Yes, there weren't a lot of comments about the recent Consumer Reports article which I attribute to the article becoming outdated before the results were released. That was because of tested models which were discontinued and the newer models (such as the Norelco Spectra aka Philishave Sensotec) not being included because they were not yet available when the shavers were tested.

From: John Sarkisian

Date: Friday, January 03, 2003 10:54 PM

Gary, I am 46 years old and have been using a blade for all of my shaving life. I have an executive position and have to shave every weekday morning. I think I would like to make the switch to an electric razor but I am confused by all of the different choices. I like what I have been reading about the Braun 7526. The price is not too bad and the cleaning feature seems like a great idea. I have also heard good things about the Philishave Sensotec & some Grundig models. Can you help me with this decision. Secondly, I have been letting my beard grow since Christmas but will be getting rid of it on Monday. If I get an electric, will I need to shave with my razor first or can I start right out with the electric. Also I usually don't shave on the weekends, will it be ok to use it on Monday mornings? I would appreciate a response as soon as possible as I am ready to make a move. Thanks in advance for your help & I will report back when I make my decision. Happy New Year.

John

Thanks for your note, John.  The Braun 7526 you mentioned is a good choice.  The Philishave Sensotec is rather pricey by comparison, but I like their Quadra model which is more reasonably priced now and its waterproof construction allows for easy cleaning (and no cleaning solution is needed unlike the Braun Syncro).  The Grundig shavers are not as easy to find, let alone replacement parts so I would recommend a Grundig shaver only if replacement parts are easy to find where you are.  I hope this helps.

From: "Chris & Charlotte" <chrischarlotte1957@yahoo.com>

Date: Thursday, January 02, 2003 10:31 AM

Hi Gary,

Great, great website you have here, very informative on it's subject. I just thought I'd let the group know I've been using a Remington MS2-400 since Christmas and it works wonderfully! It has a unique trimmer that works in 3 different positions. One of those positions props it up so it's equal to the 2 foils in height although the trimmer is not fixed, it just "floats" in that position right along with the shaving screens. Shaving with the trimmer set up in that position (as Remington recommends for tougher hairs) gives me a very close and comfortable shave, better than I've had with any electric shaver to date.

Also shaving your neckline works very well with the trimmer floating along with the screens. I got a weeks worth of shaves on my first charge. I've used a few foil shavers in my time (including a Remington triple foil, Eltron and Panasonic wet-dry) but this one beats them all. You would think the triple foil would give a better shave than the double foil but for me it didn't. Perhaps the larger cutters on the double foil make the difference. Prior to that I had been using a Remington R-9100. The R-9100 is a very good shaver overall for a rotary (although I haven't tried the top of the line Norelco's, just the Lift and Cut) but the MS2-400 shaves closer. The R-9100 will go into the travel bag. Thanks again!

You're welcome, Chris and thanks for your note.

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