I can't believe such a nice toy has such an uninspiring name. It needs a name with more pizazz. Sensation? The Platinator? I'm not convinced that the name Platinum the Original fits this product.

In any case this is a solid choice for anyone looking for a firm dildo with just the right amount of texture and size. The identically shaped Mr Softee is a good toy that is one of Doc Johnson's best sellers. Platinum the original (sticks in my throat to type that) is an improvement on that.

Its excellent for vaginal use, but not suitable for anal use since there is no flared base.

The Platinum is made from platinum silicone, as the name suggests. When it first arrived it smelled a little like plastic. After resting next to the rubber toy, Mr Softee, it smelled like rubber. Left alone on a counter for a day, it lost all scent and its true non-existent scent was evident.

Platinum has pronounced veins running along its shaft. Since its made of such a firm material, you will feel those veins. But the veins aren't sharp or harsh. They provide just the right amount of sensation. They are stimulating without being irritating. Beginners and experienced users alike will enjoy the Platinum.

Platinum has a circumference of five and a half inches, an excellent general purpose size for both beginners and advanced users. It has no base to hold onto during use. If lube gets onto the far end, it can be more difficult to maintain your grip on it.

The head is reasonably realistic while the shaft has exaggerated veins running along it for extra sensation.

Its a beautiful glittery pink color - quite a nice looking toy.

Platinum has a big head that is somewhat raised, making it easy to stimulate your G-spot. The combination of a large head, just the right amount of texture and a filling girth is a winning mix.

You will just have to make sure that you keep that far end of Platinum dry. If it becomes wet, it can be more difficult to hold onto since there is no base.

Platinum is made from premium quality silicone and so is nonporous and easy care. Just wash and dry after use. It can be boiled, bleached or rinsed with a ten percent alcohol solution to sanitize. Use only water based lubes with it.

Platinum arrives in a plastic clamshell package with a glossy insert listing its properties and care instructions. No doubt the plastic packaging is the reason Platinum had a plastic odor when I first examined it. Silicone doesn't have a scent of its own, but readily absorbs the scent of anything near it.

It can be stored either among other silicone toys or inside a plastic bag for extra protection.

The first time I used Platinum, I alternated with Mr Softee, its rubber twin. I soaked both in warm water. Platinum, being silicone, didn't need this. It warms up quickly and doesn't feel too cold on entry. Rubber toys like Mr Softee absolutely need pre-warming.

Mr Softee felt good, as usual, but I was unable to climax with him. I can't always with softer toys. Then I tried Platinum. That was an entirely different sensation.

When I first insert Platinum, I sometimes take a sharp inhalation. The veins can be felt so strongly. This is the same reaction I have to the O2 Rascal, another firm toy with a little texture. For a moment, just during the first inward stroke, I wonder whether the texture is too much. But within a second or two that concern dissipates as it begins to feel wonderful.

After that initial second or two the sensations from this toy are pleasurable. Very pleasurable. Platinum is firm so its easy to angle it for excellent G-spot stimulation. Its pronounced texture adds even more to the experience.

As I use it I keep thinking about Rascal and the O2 Revolution. It feels almost like a cross between those products. Or at least it mimics their firmness, texture and size.

Platinum the Original is even better than Mr Softee. I wasn't sure that I would prefer Platinum the Original over Mr Softee, but it turns out that I do.