Product review (5 stars): Recommended Filter Replacement!
1) No significant issues.
2) Rinsed before putting in. Very few black specks came out during first couple of uses. This is to be expected. That's why you are supposed to rinse the filter area first, and run a couple of cups of water through it before consuming.
3) Fits snugly.  Easy to install.
4) Arrived Quickly, packaged well.
5) UPDATE: After several days, I've still experiences NO issues, and no bizarre taste in the water.  With other types of filters, I've experienced some sort of funky aftertaste for several days afterward - BUT not with this one. I am quite impressed. Definitely Recommend!
Thank You!

Disclaimer: I received this item at a discount, in exchange for an unbiased and unadulterated review.  All opinions and statements made are original to me, and are not influenced by any person, persons, or company.