Quick update. I've had four break in bowls already (yes I did save the first bowl for Christmas morning & a bowl of Peterson's Holiday Season 2011) and it smokes wonderfully. I chose to keep the balsa wood filter in because I don't have any filter pipes and was curious of how they smoke. Turns out I don't mind the filter at all. Doesn't seem to take away from the flavour for me. If you've ordered one of these Caramellas I have to say you won't be disappointed with how they smoke. Nice draw, cool and dry. The bowl is a little warm at times, but my guess is because I'm still breaking it in and building up the cake. I'd venture to say the bowl will more than likely cool down once it's broken in more.