I've been delaying writing this review of the Spectra 8894xl as I really wanted to use it for a month or more before I commented on it.I'm happy to report that I'm loving it!The only real weakness is the long hair trimmer as it's marginal at best.I'm completely convinced that the Norelco rotary floating head system is far superior then the linear blade foil systems found on other razors like the Panasonic and Braun.I've owned them all. This is not to say they don't work well, but in my experience they are more biting and do a less then adequate job in the neck area.You can also get a circular rhythm with the rotary that you can't get with the linear. Some people complain there is less control with the Norelco, especially around the side burns.This is true, but I've found that once you get used to navigating the Norelco it becomes second nature.
One thing that threw me off before the purchase was a complaint I read about this razor having slots and holes on the foils heads.More specifically, the complaint was that it took a longer time to shave with the Spectra then it does with the Reflex action and Advantage.I can't comment on the Reflex action but I can comment on the Advantage as I own one.There is some truth to this!The difference is the Advantage has many more slots and more blades as compared to the Spectra. The Spectra has 9 blades per head for a total of 27 for the three heads.The claim is that this gives it a more open structure and allows for a sharper blade angle that lifts whiskers sooner and higher for a closer shave. The Advantage on the other hand has 15 blades per head for a total of45 blades.That equates to more coverage - 60% to be exact.This combined with the fact the Advantage foil has all slots explains why you can plow through more whiskers in less time.However, this notwithstanding, the spectra may take a little longer to shave but the configuration gives a much closer shave.The stubble slots also do tend to take care of the shorter whiskers by catching them and allowing the blades to cut them.
Now a word on battery life and the LED; the battery life of 100 minutes is amazing, I've only had to charge the razor twice since I owned it.I'm a proponent of conditioning the battery by using the charge up until you really need to charge it.The LED is very cool as there is no more guessing about charge left and time used.
The nine settings on the Personal Comfort level setting is a nice touch, but I've been using the razor on the normal setting with great results.At first I did set it back a few notches which led to less irritation at first, but now that my face is used to it the N setting works well without irritation.
One other thing I've found that really improves the shave. Williams Lectric Shave Utlra Pre-Shave "GEL".This is non-greasy and much better then their oil based formula.It really, really makes a difference.
Product Description
James Bond's razor of choice, this rechargeable Norelco Spectra shaver features a sleek design with 3 individually floating heads adjustable to your skin type.The selector dial adjusts spring and pressure of floating heads with 9 settings for sensitive to normal skin. A 2-stage cutting action with lift and cut technology uses slots to cut long hairs and holes to shave stubble smooth, while the full-width pop-up trimmer handles the detail work. The integrated LED display shows shaving minutes remaining, plus cleaning and head replacement indicators. A 1-hour full-charge gives you 100 shaving minutes, while the 2-minute power-charge provides a 3-minute shave. When you're done, simply rinse clean. Includes deluxe leather pouch, stand, recharging power cord, cleaning brush and travel pouch. Automatic worldwide voltage adjustment. No. 8894XL. Imported. 5-1/2L".
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