LELO Insignia Soraya

Date: (19 September 2011)

This has been the number one object of desire on my wishlist since it was released by Lelo.

I was utterly thrilled to find I would be reviewing it, although I was concerned it wouldn't live up to my expectations.

I needn't have worried. From the very first impressions, to the moment of (multiple) climax it delivered.

The Soraya comes beautifully presented in tasteful, luxurious packaging in understated black. If you are looking to buy a sextoy as a gift, this will make one hell of an impression.

The box is not only beautiful, but functional too. It provides a simple and discreet place to safely store your vibrator which also keeps it separate from any other toys you have. This is important as silicone can react adversely to other toys, particularly with other silicone, ruining the surface of the toy. It does also come with a satin storage pouch if you prefer this. I personally like the box as I can keep the charger with the toy. The bag would be useful if taking the toy out and evenings away.

The Soraya feels incredibly smooth in your hands. Lelo silicone toys have the smoothest, almost velvety, texture I have come across on any sex toy so far. This is no exception. There is no drag or grip to the surface so it glides over skin without pulling. This can be enhanced by the use of a water based lubricant. Do not use a silicone lube, this will ruin the toy. A good quality water based one is what you are looking for here.

I have it in black silicone with gold trim. It is also available in cerise and dark rose.

The charger plugs in by pushing through the silicone at the base. You can see and feel a little dip where it needs to go. I was a little sceptical about this, especially in the light of the Soraya's waterproof claims. The booklet however assures you that it will reseal after charging and that even without the silicone seal it is waterproof to a depth of 1m. So ideal for use in the bath or shower, but be careful if you are fortunate enough to be playing in a pool for example.

The controls are fairly simple. A plus and a minus button, with another button in the middle to switch between functions. Pressing the plus and minus together locks/unlocks the controls making transport and storage simpler. You can't switch it on be accident.

A feature which impressed me was the ability to adjust the speeds of every setting, not just the basic ones, as on many toys. There is a lot of versatility with this toy.

There are two motors, located in the main shaft and the clitoral stimulator. They are powerful. Far more so than I was expecting based on other luxury rechargeable toys I have owned. The Soraya has real power, which can easily be adjusted to the exact level you enjoy.

The two motors can be used together, individually or alternately in pulsing and waving patterns. Each of these in turn you can change the speed of. This leads to some amazing sensations. The subtle curve of the main shaft aids g-spot exploration and simulation, while the flexible base of the clitoral stimulator makes it easy to position. I have never been the biggest fan of rabbit style vibrators as they never seem to fit my body very well. With this I did not have that problem. Whether held still, slid in and out or rotated the stimulator was where I needed it to be. The result the first time was three powerful orgasms in quick succession. Each use since has given similar results. It is fast becoming my go-to toy.

Cleaning is easy due to the nature of the material and the fact it is waterproof. Obviously do not boil as you might with a silicone dildo due to the electronics inside, also it does specify to not use alcohol based cleaners. I would imagine due to the gold finish. Hot soapy water works well enough and it simple and readily available. I can vouch for the waterproof abilities of the toy after taking it into the bath.

Another point worth noting is that the Soraya is relatively quiet in use, especially given the strength of vibrations. You should have no problems using this discretely behind closed doors. It also means there is no distracting roar of noise to put you off.

If you really are not keen on the two part 'rabbit' design this is also available as a straight vibrator without the addition stimulator as the Lelo Insignia Isla.

Yes, it is expensive. I cannot deny that. I can however say though that if you can stretch to it, then it is worth every last penny. It is a league above any other toys I have tried in terms of looks, quality and sensations. I also think it will last provide it is well looked after.