HedoVibes #90

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IMG_3248-e1430152076270Photo courtesy of Carnal Queen

Welcome to HedoVibes, a collection of reviews and giveaways that were posted in the past week or so from around the web. This is a collection of adult product reviews & contests from real reviewers. If you want to be included in the next edition start with the guidelines, then use the submission form.

Want to read more reviews? Check out HedoVibes for a list of the latest reviews and stellar reviewers. You can also follow on twitter for the latest round ups. HedoVibes is also accepting photo submissions for each edition.

CONTESTS

DILDOS

VIBRATORS

ANAL TOYS

RINGS & STROKERS

BONDAGE, IMPACT, & FETISH GEAR

LUBES & CONDOMS

EROTIC BOOKS

MISCELLANEOUS

hedo150

 

Tantus Vamp [review]

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vamp1

Description & First Impressions

The Tantus Vamp is a simple sex toy. There are no internal vibrating mechanisms. No fancy bumps, ripples, or curves along the shaft. The design is obviously phallic in nature, but without super-realistic veins, testicles, and skin-tone gradations. Measuring 7″ long with a 1.75″ diameter, it sits squarely in the middle of the size spectrum: girthy in a way that is comfortable for most, but certainly not winning any size queen awards.

Compared to other (more flashy) products, the Vamp is easy to overlook… but don’t let its simplicity fool you. This toy is like when a friend says they’ll bring mac & cheese to a potluck. At first, you roll your eyes and think, “Seriously?! I can get that from a box.” But then they show up with a magical concoction of white cheddar & truffles & bacon and all of a sudden you’re like, “Hey, I totally underestimated you! You’re invited to all of my dinner parties!” Except in this case, the Vamp is your friend and “dinner parties” is code for masturbation.

The Tantus Vamp is made entirely from nonporous & body-safe silicone that is surprisingly firm but flexible. Its thick, sturdy base makes this toy both harness-compatible and safe for anal use. And although the shiny finish does create a couple of mild annoyances (attracting loads of dust/hair and creating a fair amount of drag during use), a little soap & water/sex toy cleaner and added lubrication will fix those issues immediately.

As I’ve mentioned before, I’m always on the look out for affordable-but-safe sex toys, and the Vamp is one of my absolute favorites to recommend. Normally, this toy comes in two colors (cream & purple) and hovers around the $40 price point. But it’s also available as one of Tantus’ special Grab Bags. This means that for only $25 you can get the Vamp in a surprise color. (Sometimes they are beautiful combinations of colors, and other times they are pretty average-looking, like mine. But it’s always an exciting game of chance!)

So the Vamp is a high-quality, versatile sex toy that is easy on your wallet… but how it feels is obviously very important too. With its pronounced head & deep coronal ridge, this is where the true magic of the Vamp makes itself known.

Experience

vamp2The Tantus Vamp makes my G-spot very happy in a subtle, relaxing sort of way — a completely different sensation from more intense & overwhelming toys like the Jopen Key Comet II. Being primarily straight, the Vamp may not seem like an immediate choice for G-spot stimulation, but the head is so prominent that it does the job with ease. This is great if, like me, you enjoy thrusting with toys but have a pubic bone that tends to get “hooked” by more extreme curves.

Plus, as someone who recently discovered that she’s not a huge fan of large toys, the Vamp is the perfect size. The girth is just large enough to provide a nice feeling of fullness without being uncomfortable. And although there is a distinct ‘popping’ sensation during insertion (which I personally dislike), my body adjusts quickly and effortlessly. It is definitely my go-to “big toy.”

Bottom Line

The Tantus Vamp is a great, high quality dildo without a lot of the bells & whistles that complicate many other toys, making them tailored to very specific needs. Of course, that’s not to say that everyone will enjoy this toy; sexuality is very diverse. However, I do believe that the Vamp is capable of pleasing a wide range of individuals because of it’s beautiful simplicity.

If you’re looking for a girthy (but certainly not huge) “everyday” sort of dildo, this may just be it.

4stars

Pros: nonporous & body-safe silicone, on the large side of “average,” pronounced head may stimulate G-spot, thick & sturdy base

Cons: may still be too large or small for some individuals, pronounced head may be uncomfortable upon insertion, general straight shape may not be stimulating enough


If you are interested in purchasing the Tantus Vamp, please consider ordering from my affiliates: Tantus (who offers the regular, grab bag, and the new vibrating grab bag option) or SheVibe!  

HedoVibes #89

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2015-04-20-02.26.44Photo courtesy of Omni Lust

Welcome to HedoVibes, a collection of reviews and giveaways that were posted in the past week or so from around the web. This is a collection of adult product reviews & contests from real reviewers. If you want to be included in the next edition start with the guidelines, then use the submission form.

Want to read more reviews? Check out HedoVibes for a list of the latest reviews and stellar reviewers. You can also follow on twitter for the latest round ups. HedoVibes is also accepting photo submissions for each edition.

CONTESTS

DILDOS

VIBRATORS

BONDAGE, IMPACT, & FETISH GEAR

STORAGE & FURNITURE

EROTIC BOOKS

MISCELLANEOUS

hedo150

 

Jopen Key Comet II [review]

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Description

Created for targeted G-spot stimulation, the Key Comet by Jopen features a slight J-shaped curve with a very pronounced rounded head. The original Comet is a beautiful glass dildo with a partial silicone coating. The newer Comet II is a lighter vibrating version made from hard, ABS plastic in place of glass. Both have a diameter of 1.5″ at their widest point. However, the Comet II measures 5.25″ in length, making it a quarter of an inch longer than its predecessor. Both models are available in the same three colors: hot pink, purple, and a beautiful shade of turquoise.

Although it is my understanding that the differences between the two are rather minimal (sans vibration capability), my personal experience is limited to the Comet II.

DSC03486

As I already mentioned, the Comet II is made from high quality, nonporous & body-safe materials. The smooth matte silicone doesn’t attract much dust, and the only time that I have noticed a small amount of drag is after prolonged use (once lubrication has had a chance to dry out). It’s waterproof and, like most luxury toys, it is rechargeable. Every 4-hour charge should lead to 2-3 hours of use.

Jopen’s packaging for the Comet II is simple, tasteful, and gender neutral. Its cardboard box features basic product information, as well as a non-discreet photograph of the toy itself. Included is a travel/storage pouch, magnetic USB charging cable, and a single sheet of instructions. It also comes with a 1-year warranty.

keybutton3The Comet II features only one button, the silver Key by Jopen logo at the very end of the handle. (Which, in my experience, can be a little stiff & difficult to press at times.) To turn the toy on/off, press and hold the button for approximately 3 seconds. When the power is on, each quick press of the button will switch to the next vibration setting. The toy has 7 vibration settings in all: 1 constant vibration and 6 different patterns of pulses & waves. Of course, the downside of simple one-button controls is that you have to cycle through all of the settings if you accidentally pass the one you were looking for.

Experience

As I learned with the Lelo Ella, my anatomy is iffy when it comes to G-spot toys with large or drastic curves. Things have a tendency to get uncomfortably hooked behind my pubic bone, forcing me to avoid thrusting and therefore change the way that I masturbate…which is rarely worth the effort. With its swooping curve & bulbous head, it’s no surprise that the Comet II was one of those toys that took some getting used to.

My initial concern was that insertion would be uncomfortable due to the Comet’s large, rounded head. I was happy to discover that although I do occasionally experience a brief moment of discomfort, this is a rare & completely manageable occurrence. In fact, it could probably be remedied altogether if I would slow down and allow myself to get more physically aroused before jumping into insertion. (This, of course, might not be the case for everyone.)

comet chargerOnce inserted, the Comet magically found my G-spot without any of my usual wiggling around in search of perfection. It was like the shape of the toy was simply made to fit my body. Turning on the vibrations solidified in my mind that this was money well spent. Although it’s no powerhouse like the We-Vibe Tango, I do find it very satisfying for internal stimulation (where I typically require less intense vibrations). In fact, it actually made me let out a quick little “Oh!” reminiscent of the very first time I experienced G-spot stimulation at the hands of my partner.

With thrusting out of the question, I did have to experiment with other — much more subtle — motions. Pushing down on the handle, which in turn pushes the rounded end firmly against my G-spot, works well. Combined with the vibrations, this pressure (whether constant or in the form of a quick pattern) is enough to lead me to a solid blended orgasm when combined with clitoral stimulation.

However, what really works for me is moving the handle side-to-side, causing the bulbous head to sort of roll across the front wall of my vagina. Honestly, this is a sensation like nothing I have ever felt before or since. The pleasure builds up until it is so intense that I don’t think I can handle another second. I get physically overwhelmed; my nerves on fire, like after one of those orgasms that makes you cry & laugh & shake all at the same time. I’ve even given up trying to watch porn while using this toy because I simply cannot concentrate on anything besides the glorious magic that is happening to my genitals.

Although I always swear it’s about to happen, I still haven’t squirted. I still don’t know if it’s even possible for me… but I don’t really care. The Comet leaves me exhausted, barely able to stand or even think straight. That’s all that really matters.

Jopen Key Comet

 The Bottom Line

For intense G-spot stimulation, I cannot recommend the Jopen Key Comet II enough. It’s shaped in such a way that finding your G-spot is almost foolproof. It’s more affordable (and in my opinion, less intimidating) than the stainless steel njoy Pure Wand. It even has the added bonus of vibrations — although if vibrations aren’t your thing, you can still get the cheaper, original Comet.

If the cost (approximately $75) is outside of your budget, don’t give up! I’ve seen this toy for as low as $45 online before, which is an amazing deal for a luxury silicone vibrator that will last you many, many years. So, as always…Keep an eye on sales!

5stars

Pros: body-safe silicone & ABS plastic, waterproof, rechargeable, fantastic curved shape & bulbous head for G-spot stimulation, hard enough material to provide steady pressure, satisfying & quiet vibrations, quite affordable with sales

Cons: cannot change intensity of vibrations, one-button control can be annoying, some individuals may find the bulbous head or the large curve uncomfortable


 If you’re interested in purchasing the Key Comet II by Jopen, please consider ordering from my affiliates: Good Vibrations & SheVibe!

I am a Sex Blogger & I Reject Pseudonymity

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The last time that I was visiting my parents’ home, my mom and I got onto the topic of sex toys. For some of you with sex-positive parents, that might seem normal. For others, it might be horrifically uncomfortable to imagine. For me, it’s both. There was not an open dialogue about sex while I was growing up, and, not surprisingly, my mom disagrees with many of my current beliefs about sexuality. But our relationship is one of friendship. We talk about nearly everything, and considering that EROcentric has become a rather large part of my life, what I do here is not off limits.

During this particular conversation, she turned to me with a look of utter confusion. “I just don’t understand. I mean…is this just your thing?!” She meant the question in a rather amusing ‘Do you have a fetish for sex toys?’ sort of way, and I tried to explain to her that it’s about so much more than just a sexual response. It’s about discovering my body, taking control of my sexual pleasure, even enhancing the sexual connection that I share with my partner. But I get the distinct impression that she still struggles with the same question in a much larger sense.

Why do I do this? Why do I think that talking about sex is so important that I have decided to openly write about such things on a public blog? 

I do it because sexuality is my passion. Because I believe that we should not be afraid to talk about sex or be ashamed of our own desires. 

As someone who harbored a lot of sexual shame growing up (largely due to a lack of accurate sex education), I want to help educate others & normalize sexuality— of all safe & consensual varieties, including the right to not engage in any/all sexual activity. In my perfect world, sexual stigma would cease to exist. Blogging is one way that I strive to turn that dream into a reality.

It has been my personal conviction that as I am advocating for shame-free sexuality, I must not remain anonymous. No, I don’t share my full legal name on my blog or blast my personal Facebook account with my latest blog posts. I recognize & respect the fact that not everyone in my life would be comfortable with or open to the topics that I discuss here. But if someone I know (who is not already in the know) comes across this website, they will see my first name & my photograph, and they will recognize me instantly. And that is okay.

I am lucky enough to have an amazing support system, a progressive employer, and career goals in the very field of which I write about: sexuality. It’s important to me that, because I am in the perfect position to do so, I take this opportunity to publicly demonstrate a commitment to sex positivity as best as I can.

I won’t lie. There are still days when I question my decision. I get anxious at the thought of everyone I know finding out about this “double life” of mine. I worry that what I write will someday hinder my professional aspirations — even in a relevant field. I fear that online harassment may someday cross the line into reality, posing very serious threats to myself and those I love.

But then I recall the times when friends have come to me, asking questions and revealing intimate secrets because of something that I have written. I feel that by sharing my sexual knowledge (including my experiences & insecurities) in a way that shows that I am not ashamed…it helps facilitate the open dialogue that I aspire to create in the world.

Of course, none of this is to depreciate the work of my fellow sex bloggers who do choose to remain anonymous or use a pen name. I believe that all of us are changing the world in fantastic ways, and I understand that this is by no means the right choice for everyone; it may not even be a viable option.

The debate surrounding online privacy, professionalism, & sexuality is complex and I don’t claim to have the answers. Who knows, perhaps some day I will regret my decision. But for now, I am proud to proclaim…

 I am a sex blogger. And girls do too masturbate.

HedoVibes #85

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IMG_30831Photo courtesy of Carnal Queen

Welcome to HedoVibes, a collection of reviews and giveaways that were posted in the past week or so from around the web. This is a collection of adult product reviews & contests from real reviewers. If you want to be included in the next edition start with the guidelines, then use the submission form.

Want to read more reviews? Check out HedoVibes for a list of the latest reviews and stellar reviewers. You can also follow on twitter for the latest round ups. HedoVibes is also accepting photo submissions for each edition.

CONTESTS

DILDOS

VIBRATORS

ANAL TOYS

RINGS & STROKERS

BONDAGE, IMPACT, & FETISH GEAR

LUBES & CONDOMS

ADULT VIDEO

EROTIC BOOKS

MISCELLANEOUS

hedo150

 

The Big Book of Bondage [review]

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Many thanks to Cleis Press for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review — and for donating a second copy to my readers in a giveaway (ending April 1st)! You can order The Big Book of Bondage directly from Cleis Press’ product page or from other book retailers, such as Amazon.

bigbookbondage edit

The Big Book of Bondage is edited by the wonderfully talented Alison Tyler and contains 25 short erotic stories penned by 25 different contemporary writers. At well over 300 pages, it’s definitely a large volume — even when you consider its slightly squished format (5×7 vs. the 6×9 of a typical trade paperback). It was published in 2012 by Cleis Press, a prolific company specializing in sexual how-to’s & erotic literature of all varieties.

As both a bookworm & sex geek, I read a lot of erotica. Unfortunately, my standards are pretty high and I often run into the same two problems: horribly tacky sexual metaphors (“His rigid sword pushed its way past her moist petals and plunged deep into her castle.”) and an imbalance between variety & unity (the stories either blend together or they feel too chaotic to fit under one theme).

The Big Book of Bondage was a refreshing respite
from mediocre (and just plain bad) erotica.

Without a lot of cheesy sex slang to disrupt my reading experience, I was actually able to connect with the characters and immerse myself in the plot lines. I was able to get turned on by the fantasies that resonated with my own and appreciate the creativity of the few that just “weren’t my thing.”

Which brings me to my next point: The variety is such that no two stories in this collection are the same. “Bondage” can mean anything from simply following verbal commands to physically being bound by cuffs, ropes, even vacuum beds. Other kinks and fetishes make their way into the stories with ease. (Into exhibitionism? Pain as pleasure? Pet play? It has you covered!) Sexual acts are not limited to “the usual” oral sex or penis-in-vagina intercourse. (Fisting, figging, and anal play all make appearances; sometimes there’s surprisingly little “sex” at all.) If you’re into kink, there’s a good chance that you’ll find at least one story that reflects your own unique desires — and many more that you will be able to enjoy.

The tingling moved through her teeth, sang in her scalp, tickled the ends of her hair. She was limp and weightless, she was floating free. – Vida Bailey, Life Drawing

Thanks to the editor, Alison Tyler, there’s an inclusiveness in The Big Book of Bondage that I appreciate when it comes to the characters & their relationships. Although the majority of the stories feature heterosexual couples with a male Dominant/female submissive power exchange, there are still plenty of stories that break the monotony. Gay/lesbian characters were not forgotten or ignored. Femdom fantasies were given space to shine. And “untraditional” relationships were included in the form of group sex, open relationships, & various arrangements between play partners.

As a big believer of the fact that erotica/porn can be educational and still hot, I was also thrilled to see the occasional mention of safe sex and BDSM practices. (Condoms, safewords, checking to make sure that rope isn’t too tight, etc.) Of course there were some stories that made me cringe (anal sex without any lubricant) and others that made me very uncomfortable (a boss whose behavior I interpreted as sexual harassment instead of sexy fun time), but I understand that others’ fantasies differ from my own.

When I came, someone paused the universe. I shattered into a million little pieces and was blasted across time. – Kristina Lloyd, The Bondage Pig

Overall, I highly recommend The Big Book of Bondage if you’re into kinky erotica. It’s got some great writing talent, a variety of different characters/scenarios, and sexy descriptions that will get your heart pounding. It even offers a pretty good insight into the nature of BDSM & bondage play.

It may just be the best erotic anthology that I’ve ever read.

5stars

HedoVibes #84

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IMG_1830-e1426568879198-470x260Photo courtesy of I, Kinkster

Welcome to HedoVibes, a collection of reviews and giveaways that were posted in the past week or so from around the web. This is a collection of adult product reviews & contests from real reviewers. If you want to be included in the next edition start with the guidelines, then use the submission form.

Want to read more reviews? Check out HedoVibes for a list of the latest reviews and stellar reviewers. You can also follow on twitter for the latest round ups. HedoVibes is also accepting photo submissions for each edition.

CONTESTS

DILDOS

VIBRATORS

ANAL TOYS

RINGS & STROKERS

LUBES & CONDOMS

STORAGE & FURNITURE

MISCELLANEOUS

hedo150

 

Lelo Mona 2 [review]

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As some of you might remember, I was one of the lucky winners of Epiphora’s great Mona summer party giveaway last year. Lelo was kind enough to send me the coveted Mona 2, as well as their (awesome) toy cleaning spray, water-based lubricant, and a Lelo notepad & pen set. Not only was the stationary nerd in me totally wooed, but for the first time, I was deeply impressed with a Lelo “pleasure object.”

Description

Mona in box

The Lelo Mona 2 is curved specifically for G-spot stimulation, but it’s appearance is much more subtle than many other G-spot toys that are on the market. For one thing, the end is tapered, not bulbous & round. Instead of having an intense C-shape (like the njoy Pure Wand or the Jopen Key Comet), the Mona’s curve is gentle with a strategically placed bulge. Overall, it’s an unassuming & moderate sized toy with a diameter of 1.25″ at its widest point and a total length of 7.75″ (approximately 4.5″ of which is insertable).

The Mona 2 is available in three different colors: purple, red, and cerise (hot pink). Both the handle and the inner core of the vibrator are made from hard ABS plastic, meaning that there isn’t any flex or give to the toy. However, the insertable portion is covered in a layer of Lelo’s signature velvety silicone. It’s matte, does not attract much dust/hair/lint, and lubricates easily in order to minimize drag. Both materials are nonporous and body-safe.

The controls for the Mona are easy and intuitive. The handle has 4 buttons: +, -, ^, and v. To turn the toy on, press the + button and hold it until the desired vibration intensity is reached. To turn it off, press and hold the – button. The ^ and v button are used to cycle back and forth through Mona’s 5 patterns of various pulses and waves. The toy can also be locked and unlocked by pressing and holding both the – and + buttons at the same time for approximately 3 seconds.

Mona contentsTypical of Lelo products, the Mona 2 arrives in dual layers of packaging: a thin cardboard box featuring a photo of the toy & a sturdier box that is appropriate for extended storage. In addition to the toy itself, Lelo also includes a travel/storage pouch, charger, user manual, 1-year warranty registration card, and lubricant sample. According to Lelo’s website, each 2 hour charge should lead to 2-4 hours of use.

Experience

I’ll be honest; the first time that I used the Lelo Mona 2, I was disappointed. There was so much hype surrounding it that I suppose I naively expected a G-spot orgasm that was both effortless and magical. It never happened. In reality, the Mona 2 was my first G-spot vibrator. I didn’t know how to use it in ways that would provide me with the most pleasure. And to make matters worse, I was hanging onto an idealized view of the “vaginal orgasm” — when my body absolutely requires clitoral stimulation.

Now that I’ve become more in tune with my body (including my G-spot area), I can safely say that the Mona 2 greatly surpasses my expectations in the realm of blended orgasms. I have proudly joined the sex blogging cult that worships the Mona 2. I’ve even nicknamed my Mona & Tango the “wonder twins,” because they are so perfect together.

DSC03411

For a power queen like me, the most important thing about the Mona 2 is that its vibration intensity is leaps and bounds beyond Lelo’s older products like the (disappointing & barely discernible) Lily. While it’s nowhere near as rumbly as the We-Vibe Tango, it is still strong enough for me to use clitorally without getting frustrated. And since I don’t require as much power for G-spot stimulation, the Mona 2 has more than enough ‘oomph!‘ internally.

Secondly, the shape is pure genius. The subtle bulge nudges against my G-spot effortlessly, and I simply have to push down on the handle (raising the internal portion of the toy) if I require more intense pressure. Because the curve is not extreme, the Mona 2 does not get painfully hooked behind my pubic bone like the Lelo Ella does. This makes thrusting not only possible, but comfortable. The only problem that I have experienced is that occasionally, depending on my level of arousal and my enthusiasm, the tapered end can feel a little pokey.

Lelo Mona 2It may seem surprising, but if you’re looking for a toy with variety, the Mona 2 has got you covered! Although it’s designed for internal use, the gentle shape also complements the natural curves of the vulva quite nicely for external stimulation. (The handle/length of the toy can even be beneficial for those who have difficulty with their flexibility or reach.) Plus, since the vibration intensity & patterns are controlled separately, the Mona 2 has a huge range of settings, allowing each individual to select their perfect combination.

Bottom Line

To be honest, Lelo rarely impresses me. I generally think that their “innovation” sounds cooler than it actually is, their mechanics are mediocre, and their prices are too high. The simple fact that I will 100% stand behind the Mona 2 should be a testament as to how much I enjoy this toy.

Its full range of vibration intensities make it a good fit for individuals who prefer sensations that are soft, strong, or anywhere in between. Its gentle, bulging curve and modest size are not so extreme as to prevent thrusting or intimidate its user. And it can easily and comfortably double as an internal & external toy. Overall, I think that the Lelo Mona 2 is capable of pleasing a wide range of individuals — including G-spot beginners and experts alike.

5stars

Pros: body-safe silicone & ABS plastic, wide range of vibrations & patterns, easy to use controls, curved design that is effective but not extreme, quiet, rechargeable, & waterproof

Cons: fairly high price tag, may not be enough for those that need very deep, rumbly vibrations or bulbous C-shaped toys for more focused G-spot pressure & stimulation


Thanks again to Epiphora & Lelo for gifting me with this fantastic toy! If you’re interested in purchasing the Mona 2, please consider ordering from my affiliates: Good Vibrations or SheVibe.

HedoVibes #83

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stainless-steel-butt-plug-review-forbidden-obsessions-14Photo courtesy of Cara Sutra

Welcome to HedoVibes, a collection of reviews and giveaways that were posted in the past week or so from around the web. This is a collection of adult product reviews & contests from real reviewers. If you want to be included in the next edition start with the guidelines, then use the submission form.

Want to read more reviews? Check out HedoVibes for a list of the latest reviews and stellar reviewers. You can also follow on twitter for the latest round ups. HedoVibes is also accepting photo submissions for each edition.

CONTESTS

DILDOS

VIBRATORS

ANAL TOYS

BONDAGE, IMPACT, & FETISH GEAR

LUBES & CONDOMS

STORAGE & FURNITURE

LINGERIE & SHOES

EROTIC BOOKS

MISCELLANEOUS

hedo150