Features of the first stage include a jet seat high flow piston, factory sealed, and nitrox ready. I think you'd be happy either way. It has two high-pressure ports and five low-pressure ports. The venturi is a bit dinky compared with some of the others, so a bit more awkward with gloves on, but still workable. The tank also needs to have a proper hydrostatic test date which is typically every two to five years depending on the type of tank. Each review is genuinely what our tester felt the product was like when it was dived. Overall, both the MK17 and Legend Supreme offer high-quality technology at half the cost of the T3. It is one of only two regs in this price segment to feature both a venturi lever and a cracking resistance control. If the diver does hold their breathe and is ascending it could cause lung over-expansion which can be fatal. But, a dramatic change in flow is impractical for cold climates. Your choice largely boils down to where you'll be doing most of your diving and your access to competent and professional service/repair. When diving in warm water under 60 feet most regulators on the market will work. The regulator has two high-pressure and four medium-pressure ports. This type of seal is less stable than the DIN valve, so it is better for warm water diving and less challenging conditions. The Atomic Aquatics M1 has all the features youd expect from a cold water regulator packed into a travel-sized package. The regulator also needs a pressure gauge or have an integrated dive computer. The XL4+ is a nice-looking regulator, especially with that white finish, and its subtle styling is matched by a stunning performance. Do not submerge the first stage of the regulator into the water for a long period because water could get past the dust cover. The secondary regulator is sometimes built into the BCD. The Zeagle Onyx II is a great-looking regulator, benefitting from a stylish metal insert into the front of the second stage around the large, soft purge, which belies its price point and youd be mistaken for thinking it was in the next test bracket. If you learned to dive in warm water, you might be wondering why its important to have so many ports on your regulators first stage. What is better a balanced or unbalanced regulator? The R195 second stage is a classic downstream design, with a Venturi lever that is easy to locate even wearing thick gloves. While this valve type might require more frequent service and thorough cleaning, its worth it if youre planning to dive in icy conditions. You are using an out of date browser. If youre hoping to buy a cold water regulator thats light enough for dive travel, youre in luck! The system can be balanced or unbalanced. The first choice needed to be made when purchasing a regulator is whether to get a DIN or a yoke regulator. What piece of equipment should never be allowed to dangle freely? The Comfo-Bite mouthpiece is also very comfy. It also has pre-orientated low-pressure and high-pressure ports and a neat pearl-chrome finish. Its got all the perks you expect from a midrange regulator, but its outfitted for the cold. The second stage is made with metal which transfers heat well and carbon fiber which makes the regulator durable and light. It can be locked in place, or allowed to move freely, depending on whether you are diving a single cyliner, a twinset or sidemount. Want to learn more about a technical term? We have linked some of the products to an affiliate program and if you decided to purchase the product through them, based on our advice, we will receive a small commission. While it is expensive and made from a heavier material than the Atomic Aquatics T3, the SCUBAPRO M25 A700 is an excellent regulator system. Previous generation required setting a lower IP for the Supreme, but that is no longer the case. It is extremely robust with its PVD finish, and the solid first stage is perfect for all conditions. The average breathing effort is 0.6 J/l. It is easy to see the benefits of being part of the Huish Outdoors family. This regulator is rated number one because it is a low cost, durable regulator that requires little maintenance. The C370 second stage body is made from fibreglass reinforced nylon and now features a balanced valve and new exhaust tee. An environmental seal is a protective outer casing around your regulators first stage. This is a plug adapter that threads into a DIN scuba tank. DIN to Yoke Scuba Regulator Adapter by Promate, Plug Adapter for a DIN Scuba Tank to Yoke Regulator. For this test it was paired with the proven MK25 EVO flow-through piston first stage, which is fully insulated from the environment by the XTIS (Extended Thermal Insulating System) and has numerous innovative design features to aid cold-water performance. VERDICT: The Oceanic Alpha 10 SPX is a straightforward, no-frills regulator, and it does exactly what you need it to, at a very affordable price. It features an oversized purge button, Superflex braided hose, and a chunky knob on the side for adjusting the cracking resistance of the inhalation effort. If you want to get a high-performance DIN regulator the T10 SC is a great option. Plenty of regulators are suitable for diving in cold climates. Plus, this regulator only needs to be serviced every 3 years or 300 dives. The Cressi T10 SC Cromo Compact Pro is a higher-end version of this regulator that is good to use when diving in cold water. The durability of this setup is why this regulator is often used as rental gear for dive operations. The F8 has an environmentally sealed balanced diaphragm first stage made from durable brass, and featuring a precision-machined neoflon seat. The second stage has a tough nylon case and has a seat-saving orifice, zirconium-plated inlet tube and heat sink for superior corrosion resistance, and a new inhalation diaphragm. You may prefer this setup, as it is more comfortable and ergonomic for routing your hoses, especially if you are diving with a dry suit. The backup second-stage regulator is referred to as the octopus. Each "breath" of the machine moves a specified amount of air, called the tidal volume, through the reg. It may not display this or other websites correctly. The ScubaPro MK25 A700 EVO carbon black tech is a top-quality durable scuba regulator. The second stage always has a purge valve to blow air in the event the regulator needs to be placed back into a divers mouth underwater. Higher-end regulators are sealed and balanced which becomes important when diving deep and when diving in cold water. The second stage is pneumatically balanced to maintain breathing effort at different depths and tank pressures. Joining has its benefits and enables you to participate in the discussions. This massively improves the cold water/freezing resistance without compromising its breathing performance. CRACKING RESISTANCE:Yes |VENTURI:No|VERDICT:The second stage of this set-up is very reminiscent of the 150LX, which is no bad thing, as it is a good-looking unit, but the DCX first stage resplendent in its PVD plated finish is a top-performer, especially in cold water. The first stage of the F8 is a compact but well-made unit, but we have to say that the second stage doesnt actually look as eye-catching as its cheaper sibling, the Onyx II (which scored well last month). It has a large easy to use purge valve and exhaust tree to help disperse bubbles. JavaScript is disabled. The Sherwood Blizzard is one of the best selling cold water regulators of all time, and a top pick for instructors and safety divers. It also comes in a subtle gun-metal grey colour rather than the bright white of the MTX-R. All of the Test Team were complimentary about the construction and looks of both the first and second stages of the MTX-RC. The large purge is easy to locate and operate even with thick gloves, and the same goes for the venturi lever. The XS compact second stage has an adjustment for the Venturi effect and a low noise semi-rigid case. It has dry chambers that reduce the potential for ice build-up. The second stage regulator is the part the diver breaths from. Turreted regulators are also compatible with technical and, difference between balanced and unbalanced regulators, How to Store and Maintain Your Scuba Gear, Adjustable Flow (allows you to control how much air you receive in each breath), Pre-Dive Switch (reduces flow to conserve air on the surface), Environmentally Sealed (so it has an insulating and protective exterior), Wireless Air Integration (an extra port for Bluetooth transmitters), Oversized Knobs (for use with thick gloves), Environmentally Sealed (an insulating and protective exterior), Can be Configured for Sidemount or Doubles (two back mounted tanks), Turreted First Stage (more versatile than a traditional valve), Extra Ports for Dry Suits and Accessories. It is equipped with Aqua Lungs patented Auto Closure Device, or ACD, which prevents any accidental water ingress if you accidentally submerged it without putting the cover back on the DIN or Yoke fitting. It breathes well in all positions. In addition to these checks, the tank condition and valve conditions should be checked before each use. This is a unique swivel, mounted on the face of the first stage instead of the top. So, it cant hurt to be over-prepared. This boils down to the fact that the environmentally sealed first stage will keep out contaminants and perform superbly in cold water. Breathing through a scuba regulator is very simple and not much different from breathing above water. There is a location on the regulator for RFID chips to help keep an inventory of rental gear at dive shops. Sometimes the second stage is a lower-cost version of the primary second stage. When it comes to cold water regulators, the ScubaPro MK25 EVO/A700 is the best of the best. Before any tank is filled the VIP date, Hydro date, and tank pressure rating should be checked. The entire regulator weighs just 2.5 pounds. This is one of the more-expensive regulators on test, but it has plenty of features of merit, and it has a fantastic performance to match its eye-catching good looks. The first stage is an over-balanced diaphragm design. This valve type is easier to set up and break down and requires less maintenance, but is best left for immersions in temperatures over 75 F. Simply put, if youre diving in cold water you should use a balanced regulator. The second stage is small and lightweight as well. The regulators average breathing effort is not published. It looks good too, in an understated way, with the 316 stainless steel elements, and I like the red-and-black colour scheme. However aluminum scuba tanks are only rated to 3,000 psi. The Vortex Assisted Design creates a swirling vortex with a low-pressure area in the centre that keeps the diaphragm down during inhalation, for easy breathing at all depths. The MK21 is Scubapro's most-compact air-balanced piston first stage has a compact chrome-plated brass body and boasts four low-pressure ports and two high-pressure ports. The Zirconium thats what the Z stands for delivers corrosion-resistance apparently three to four times that of conventional chrome plating, and the second stage lever, orifice and spring are titanium, as with the higher-spec (and price) models. But, in cold climates that might not be the case. It is important to occasionally use and test the secondary regulator. This is an imperial gauge with depth in feet and pressure in psi. The Aqualung Leg3nd Elite Regulator is one of the new generation Legend has recently been upgraded with many innovative features and new appealing aesthetics. I have a Mk19/D420 as well as a G260 and 620Ti second stage (I also have a Mk25 evo) Anyway I have yet to dive the D420 and rsingler tuned both the Mk19 and the D420 for me. CRACKING RESISTANCE:No |VENTURI:No|VERDICT:The Mares 52x is one of the most eye-catching first stages on the market. If you have short listed aqualung for yourself, I am sure you must have done a fair bit of research. In the picture, I am diving with an aqualung legend regulator. The difference between piston and diaphragm regulators is the mechanism by which your air is delivered. This gauge connects to a high-pressure port on the primary regulator. So far, so normal. The rest of the world is dominated by DIN tanks and regulators. The first stage is the metal device that attaches directly to the scuba tank via a DIN or yoke connection. Mares gave their regulator line-up a serious overhaul for 2019, and the Epic Adj 82X still represents a formidable unit. There are external fins on the brass regulator which help prevent it from freezing when diving in cold weather conditions. All products reviewed have been fully dived and tested. It is pneumatically balanced and is designed to work with the Legends first stage. We accept advertising from many of the brands featured, but in no way does that have an effect on the overall review we give a product. It comes with a lip shield, which does actually assist in keeping your lips warm(er) in cold water, but if you dont want this, it is quick and simple to remove. A turreted (vertical tower shaped) first stage offers many advantages over a traditional horizontal valve, especially when diving in cold water. Features of the second stage and octopus include a mesh grid to reduce the impact of water on the diaphragm, vortex assisted design for easy consistent breathing, and dynamic flow control to help maintain pressure during inhalation. Unlike most regulators, the Hollis DC7 500SE utilizes a side exhaust for exhaled gas, so your bubbles will stay well out of frame. It has two high-pressure ports and five low-pressure ports. Zeagle have worked with Atomic Aquatics to produce a solidly constructed regulator. The Rover has subtle styling, but its performance is outstanding at this price point. As with all Hollis regulators, it comes with a lifetime warranty, only requires a service every two years and you get service kits free-of-charge for the life of the regulator. VERDICT: Excellent little regulator which could hold its own in the mid-range price bracket. An extended thermal insolating system delays ice build-up on internal components. This regulator is environmentally sealed against cold and contamination. An auto closer device on the first stage keeps corrosive water from entering the regulator when it is removed from the tank. Lastly, there is a cap that helps to protect the diaphragm from ice build-up. The NX700 is the definite show-stopper when it comes to this reg. JavaScript is disabled. There is also a knob that allows the diver to change the breathing effort. DIN vales have fewer o-ring problems and can typically be used with steel tanks up to 3500 psi. Aqua Lung has been making diving equipment for more than 75 years, and their regulators have always been solid units, but they have really come on in recent years the Core Supreme is a belting little unit for this price point. And, even lightweight options should feel strong and stable, with no flimsy plastic pieces. Wireless air integrated dive computers use a transmitter attached to your first stage that relays tank pressure to a wrist-mounted screen. The xDeep regs provided a smooth breathe, and the controls were simple to find and use. The oval face has a decent-sized purge, and a swivel aids comfort in use. Balanced regulators also perform better during deep dives. Diaphragm first stages offer air at a lower flow rate, so they are less likely to freeflow. It is also now smaller and lighter for a more comfortable dive. The average breathing effort is 1.35 J/l. A durable lightweight polymer is used for the shell of the regulator and is good for warm water diving. Unbalanced systems are simple and reliable. Oceanic are making inroads back into the reg market, and the Zeo is their range-topper. It can also be converted from right-hand to left-hand if you so wish. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The Elite is the latest and highest-end model of the Aqua Lung Legend series of regulators. CRACKING RESISTANCE:Yes |VENTURI:No|VERDICT:The MTX-R set the bar high for a cold-water reg, and the MTX-RC builds on this platform, adding a highly efficient venturi lever and cracking resistance control into the mix. The all-metal second stage has a unique pivoting purge valve, lightweight braided Superflex hose, and a neat twist control to boost the flow rate from natural breathing to power breathing, all of which was seen on the Fusion reg. The MK25 is a overbalanced piston first stage whereas the Aqualung is a overbalanced diaphragm first stage. This is the number one rule of scuba diving to never hold your breath. Thumbs up for the comfort of the ComfoBite mouthpiece as well. ScubaPro MK21 regulator has a piston balanced first stage. Registration is not required to read the forums, but we encourage you to join. It is slightly more difficult to inhale and exhale but when diving this is not even a conscious thought. There is a conical filter on the first stage which helps prevent any large particles in the scuba tank from entering the first and second stages of the regulator. The venerable Legend now Leg3nd is back in an all-new guise, and the Elite is the pick of the pack. High-pressure ports locations allow the regulator to face up or down. Most DIN regulators can hold pressures up to 4300 PSI. The pre-dive setting requires more force when breathing but the regulator is less likely to free-flow. The first stage is made with nickel-plated brass. A comfort-fit silicone mouthpiece is soft and has tear-resistant bite tabs. While most travel regulators use titanium and carbon fiber to cut down on weight, these are not the best materials for cold climates. CRACKING RESISTANCE:Yes |VENTURI:No|VERDICT:The venerable Leg3nd is looking good in its latest guise, and the Elite is the top of the tree. The regulator had two high-pressure ports and four low-pressure ports. The second stage is more-traditional, with a cracking resistance control and venturi lever. Once attached it changes the pressure from high pressure to low pressure that can then be used for breathing from the second stage and inflate the BCD. This was one of only two regs in this price bracket to feature both a venturi lever and a cracking resistance control. Cold water regulators utilize special features to prevent freezing and freeflow and are often made from more robust materials than their warm water counterparts. Unbalanced regulators becomes more difficult to breathe from as your tank has less air. It is equipped with Aqua Lungs ACD (Auto Closure Device), which keeps corrosive water out of the first stage inlet by automatically closing as the reg is removed from the cylinder valve. The 15X first stage has pre-oriented ports two high-pressure and four low-pressure, including one DFC port (Dynamic Flow Control), which minimises intermediate pressure drop during inhalation, thus maximising gas delivery for optimum routing, yet retains a compact, travel-friendly size and weight. Now that you are a Scubaboard junkie, you too can collect regulators and then wonder where all your money went. It is important to breathe out of the nose when descending to equalize the pressure in the mask. Aqualung Regs last a long time more than you indicate before you will think of tech diving (3-5yrs). An elliptical exhaust valve allows for easy exhales. The first stage regulators contain either a piston or diaphragm regulating valve. High-pressure steel tanks are rated to hold between 3,300 and 3,500 psi. In the picture, I am diving with a Cressi XS compact regulator in the Florida Keys. Personally, I have dove wrecks at about 100 feet with an unbalanced regulator and did not notice any change in the force level it took to breathe. Many divers use multiple gauges for redundancy in challenging environments. Many advanced divers want to use DIN scuba regulators and DIN valve scuba tanks when possible. The Zeo second stage is also pneumatically balanced and features a large venturi lever and big cracking resistance control knob to finetune the breathe. That first stage is certainly an eye-catcher. When it comes to scuba diving the regulator is the essential piece of equipment that really needs to work to dive safely. It is up to divers with DIN regulators to have this adapter. When it comes to regulators there are two main connection types a DIN or a yoke. The second stage has pneumatic compensation to regulate airflow rates. It is well priced, and a decent performer all-round. Where it all goes xDeep is the design of the body. Once you get good at scuba diving, spearfishing can make diving more interesting. Aqua Lung Leg3nd is the third generation Legend octopus and is a top-quality secondary regulator. Registration is not required to read the forums, but we encourage you to join. I have a LX Supreme for my back mount rec diving and a pair or Apeks for . And, while it wont win any points for style, its one of the best values on the market dollar for dollar. We do this at 2 liters/20 breaths per minute, 2.5 L/25 bpm and 3 L/25 bpm. Gauges do not have to be from the same company as the regulator but it is common to have matching gear. Cressi XS compact octopus is used as the backup regulator for the AC2 first stage. The Test Team comprises Editor in Chief Mark Evans and a squad of volunteers, whose dive experience ranges from a couple of hundred dives to well over 8,000 in all conceivable diving conditions and temperatures. If youre planning to dive in cold water (below 75 F), youll need a regulator built to take a beating. Its rated for extreme cold and can be used safely for demanding immersions like ice diving. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. SCUBAPRO M25 A700 Regulator. This is a great regulator for warm water diving. Scuba regulators have a first stage and second stage. It has to be said, that odd-looking second stage takes some getting used to, but there is no doubt that it provides a very smooth, easy breathe in all orientations. This is a sealed piston first stage with two high pressure and five low-pressure ports. There is always a primary second stage and a secondary second-stage or octopus. The octopus is included in the dive package. Even if you think you will never need it it is good to have just in case. The regulator has a three year 300 dive service interval. The mouthpiece is also very comfortable. In the secondary regulator, there are large ribs that act as a heat exchanger to protect internal mechanisms. The second stage is very lightweight, and it has a purge that lurks behind a flexible mesh grid on the unit, which helps eliminate freeflow in currents.
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