sorry Laura, but this is not completely true, the internet spreads this sort of belief. Was the original hitachi stronger, better, faster, more durable...? perhaps.

But the Vibratex version is a great product, the motor is in the handle and it is built nearly identical to the original hitachi. Are there better toys out there built in a similar fashion? Maybe... they surely cost more, nearly double. And I prefer the plug in version over a rechargeable or god forbid a USB charger.
There is nothing wrong with a real vibratex wand.... just make sure you get a real one, not a knock off... the internet tells the differences if you search for it.
I would like a completely sealed, waterproof version that had a great battery that would not take a dump like a phone battery.... but they are pricey and I doubt the battery life would make me happy