Hi,
This is my first purchase of any Volcano Vaporizer; therefore I cannot compare it to another. I know there is a digital version of this same machine, but from what I've read and seen on youtube, there are only two feature differences with the digital version; digital read out and automatic shut off. The two different mouth pieces (easy or solid valve), can be used with both Classic and the Digital versions.
I don't fully understand your question here:
“i'm trying to determine if it's still having the hardware ventilated through its cannabic bowl using the customer's lungs.”
If you are asking if the heated air is ventilated through the botanical medium chamber, then yes; it's still designed to operate that way. It provides a clean, smokeless vapor with little aroma but full flavor from the botanicals used. No harsh smoke from anything burning that makes inhalation problematic or offensive. Just tasty vapor.
As far as the possibility of “some eventual catastrophic failure scenario;” I can only guess and say that I seriously doubt it. This machine is well designed and manufactured. I suppose there will be an eventual wearing of the movable/heated parts over time, but I can't imagine it causing any failure scenario. If you ever handle one, it will be obvious the selected materials are of high quality, without consideration of parts failure. I can't imagine anything getting inside the unit to cause problems unless someone removes the outer stainless steel case and carelessly leaves it off while operating. This machine will last for many, many years without regard.
lloyd
