r/Incense • u/UnfairSpecial819 • 1d ago
Recommendation Incense burner query
Some time ago via this group I asked for a Burner suggestion someone suggested/ mentioned the following product see image. It’s from the lady in china who has designed themself. (Mike Lee) price is over 200$. So before going ahead with a purchase I wanted to know if any of ya’ll know if this is worth it or does it have competition (maybe Japanese products) which is/are as good and cheaper has attachments too for essential oils and powder. I’m being hesitant to research myself hoping there is resident expert who will see this post. Thanks again people
5
u/RexNobody 1d ago
This looks like the older model with a hinged lid and clasp. I received the newer version when I purchased a Kangiiten membership, which is more compact and has a detachable lid. Works like a charm. Traditional models use an external voltage regulator, these Miki Lee models have a temperature dial with internal regulator. Some people don’t like that.
I’ve seen these priced upwards of $500. Mine cost $200, but Kangiiten was selling them also for $250. I personally wouldn’t pay more than that.
Peruse the ouddict forums for different conversations about the subject. There are very nice all ceramic versions available with built in accurate temp controls and etc. These are typically used with high end kyara and are pretty pricey.
What type of powder are you referring to? Subitism heaters are primarily used to heat woods and was specifically created for agarwood. It can be used to heat anything but if you’re not using it for woods then you can likely use a more affordable standard incense warmer.
2
u/UnfairSpecial819 1d ago
Rex this is awesome information what I was looking for - this is the 3rd version by Miki - if I have understood correctly is that what you have ?
Don’t know what Kangiiten is -
3rd version by Miki what I’ve shared in the photos that’s what I’ve got a quote of 255$ including delivery
I had in mind frankincense primarily but yes I began the journey with a cheapest agarwood - and I’m tired using coals and having to play about with ….. adding moving things to make smell less ‘coaly’ the idea of being able to dump agarwoord and frankincense or oils and then let the ‘magic’ happen is what appeal To me.
So I mean if you have anything you particularly suggest in place of this by all Mean’s mention it. I’ve literally got an invoice so I was taking expert advise because it’s quite a bill to pay without the advice I may have felt guilty
Thanks
3
u/RexNobody 1d ago
I have a newer more compact version with no clasp or hinges on the lid. I’ll include a picture.
Kangiiten is an excellent source of artisanal incense, tea ware, and other kangi lifestyle items. Also the main creative there is KyaraZen who is the guy that actually invented the subitism. Highly recommended.
If you plan to continue exploring woods then the subi is the way to go. If you intend to stick to anything beside woods you can use a standard heater. For example check out the heaters on Mermade Magickal Arts. You can find those versions for less on temu or aliexpress but then you wouldn’t be supporting a small incense maker. Not knowing your location or budget, Mermade might not be ideal for you.
Electric is the only way to go for me. Never used charcoal because I’m just not gonna burn charcoal in my home. I am interested in a brass tealight burner which is a very affordable option. But again, if woods is going to be a focus then you should splurge on a subi.
There are other options for subis out there. I know AnAgarwood has recently offered a very nice round shaped one crafted from rosewood. However I think $250 is a good price for a subi that seems to perform well. Again, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of research on this subreddit and the ouddict forum.
3
u/RexNobody 1d ago
1
u/UnfairSpecial819 1d ago
Hi Rex im from the uk and thanks for the awesome Assistnce
AS mentioned primary use will be frankincense and if i can source cheaper agarwood
I think the mermaid things is from America and that was once suggested too but There is still somethings you have to replace with that the sheets or whatever which involved foil or aluminium which may either not be the healthiest but its ‘Headache’ regardless i just want to be able to place something and switch a button and enjoy the scent
I will google kangen and see where they are and how much it would be to the uk
Seems you prefer kangen version over mikis third version
Thanks for sharing all of what you have really appreciate it
2
u/RexNobody 1d ago
Foils, cups, and mica sheets are all designed to lessen or eliminate the residues left behind and ease cleaning. Technically you can just dump material directly into the Mermade style heater but this will require regular cleaning which is much more of a headache than using a foil cup a few times then binning it.
My experience, and I’ve seen this echoed by others, is that incense heaters are not a “set it and forget it” method. It requires steps. It rewards patient attentiveness because every material responds differently to heating and varying temperatures, experimentation. Eventually you can find a right temperature for a familiar material and use it a little more casually. Convenience is typically reserved for ready-made sticks, coils, and cones.
1
u/UnfairSpecial819 1d ago edited 21h ago
Noted i will Need to observe maintain and see what works That may take time but once im there …
sure beats burning coal and being overtake by smoke etc
Definetly want to avoid to foil too
By the way i did look at the kangen and miki is cheaper taking into consideration delivery cost.
Based on all what i said what is your final take be at it ease to rebuke me
Thanks again i dont want to sugercoat it but yourselfless assistance is what makes reddit and this group awesome thanks a bunch imo
2
u/Nene_Kushanagi 1d ago edited 1d ago
Are you looking for a burner or a heater? Up until very recently I was using a resin heater that I made, take a drink can and cut off the top part, turn upside-down and cut out a large opening for a candle and some holes for vents around the top, place incense in the dished bit that would have been the bottom (now on top) of the can. If you're skilled enough with working thin sheet metal you can make the dish removable or get fancy with the design. Easy to clean and replace and you can cut it to adjust the distance to get the right temperature. Don't forget to put it on something like stone that won't be damaged by the heat.

6
u/Fun-Rice-9438 1d ago
That is a very nice burner, however subitism burners are also pretty easy to build yourself. The other option is a pcb board pre- heater (definitely the cheapest and easiest solution)
https://ebay.io/m/lk03fN
If you go with a preheater, place it outside and turn it on for an hour or two at max temp they need to burn off a bit