The second stage regulator is the part the diver breaths from. Plus, its an easy-to-service reg that doesnt require special tools, and is easy to work on in the field. This was one of only two regs in this price bracket to feature both a venturi lever and a cracking resistance control. The low-pressure value can be adjusted with an exterior Allen key screw. 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. Key features of the second stage include Venturi dive or pre-dive settings, and an orthodontic mouthpiece. This regulator type is easy and affordable to service because it has few moving parts, but may require specialized tools to open. Hollis continues to forge a path into regulators, and the flagship 200LX DCX is well worth a look. The inline ball swivel and orthodontic mouthpiece help fit the regulator in a comfortable way. Everything about this regulator is built quality. 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. The F8s first stage is sealed and insulated, with a watertight exterior to prevent corrosion. For more of our top scuba diving gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides: Jessica is a PADI dive instructor, travel blogger, and underwater photographer. The venerable Legend now Leg3nd is back in an all-new guise, and the Elite is the pick of the pack. The comfobite mouthpiece is nice when diving for long periods. The Leg3nd Ultra has a venturi lever and a cracking resistance control knob, for completely independent control over the ease of the breathe. I have 1992 US Divers Conshelf 21, still works, required minimal service over years, but also decided it was time to get a new regulator. While it is a very reliable second stage modern second stages have been improved on. Higher-end models are environmentally sealed and balanced. Partly cause i like the metal body and the perforated diaphragm cover but it def doesn't breathe as easy as the legend. The simulator pressurizes the chamber to simulate depths of 132 feet of seawater, 165 fsw and 198 fsw. A balanced first stage makes it easier to breathe when at deep depths and when the tank pressure is reduced. These programs pay this website advertising fees for products purchased through links going to other websites including Amazon. If you want to get a high-performance DIN regulator the T10 SC is a great option. It is easy to see the benefits of being part of the Huish Outdoors family. Scuba diving at night is a very fun experience. The wide exhaust tee disperses exhaled bubbles well clear of your face. Now that you are a Scubaboard junkie, you too can collect regulators and then wonder where all your money went. You must log in or register to reply here. It is installed with an 8mm hex Allen key tool that is not included. And, even lightweight options should feel strong and stable, with no flimsy plastic pieces. It is made with nickel-plated brass. An XS compact octopus also makes a great secondary regulator. I prefer a sealed diaphragm or a sealed piston vs the unsealed Mk25evo. An extended thermal insolating system delays ice build-up on internal components. Registration is not required to read the forums, but we encourage you to join. 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. Joining is quick and easy. This is a low-cost reliable regular that is popular for a primary regulator and the XS2 in yellow is common as an octopus in warm water scuba locations. ScubaPro analog pressure and depth gauge. Engineered to provide a comfortable, low-effort work of breathing in warm and cold water, the Leg3nd is ready for any environment. This regulator is preferred by wreck, cave, and cavern divers . The reason some scuba shops only fill to 3,000 psi is that this is the most common pressure used. If you stick with diving, this regulator will make an excellent backup and is a top pick for deco tanks, too. Finally, there is a comfortable orthodontic mouthpiece with a good grip. It has two high-pressure ports and five low-pressure ports. The depth gauge is available in imperial units which are feet and metric which are in meters. Each "breath" of the machine moves a specified amount of air, called the tidal volume, through the reg. The first stage of a regulator set-up comes in two guises DIN valve, and yoke valve. The D420 is reminiscent of previous D-regs, with its unusual shape of second stage. Products are split into price categories and are then evaluated for performance, comfort, ease of use, build quality, looks and value for money. CRACKING RESISTANCE:No |VENTURI:No|VERDICT:The Mares 52x is one of the most eye-catching first stages on the market. The second stage is pneumatically balanced and has a compact venturi lever and a shaped purge. The cover of the regulator and the hose are typically yellow to let the diver and the diver buddy know that it is the backup regulator. This is because the connection of the yoke regulator is the weak point. 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. Its rated for extreme cold and can be used safely for demanding immersions like ice diving. Steel tanks can be rated up to 3500 psi but are commonly filled to 3,300 psi. The second stage is pneumatically balanced which helps keep the breathing effort constant throughout the dive. The C370 second stage body is made from fibreglass reinforced nylon and now features a balanced valve and new exhaust tee. When it comes to scuba diving the regulator is the essential piece of equipment that really needs to work to dive safely. The Apeks MTX was built based on a military design, featuring a nearly bulletproof sealed and balanced brass exterior. Welcome to ScubaBoard, the world's largest scuba diving community. The AL Legend can be tuned to breathe quite easily, even a little easier than the G250. It has a large easy to use purge valve and exhaust tree to help disperse bubbles. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Hi DebraSue: I have been diving with an Aqualung reg for nine years now and its performance and realibility is excellent.I am not using that model, however Aqualung products are by and large very good and this model is a balanced regulator with the 1st stage overbalance and the second state is adjusatable for balance.I don't think you will be sorry if you go with the Aqualung. Joining has its benefits and enables you to participate in the discussions. The first stage is an over-balanced diaphragm design. Some regulators need to be serviced every year and others need to be serviced every few years. 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 difference between piston and diaphragm regulators is the mechanism by which your air is delivered. Second, the o-ring seal on a DIN tank is within the regulator and typically has fewer issues than yoke tanks external o-rings. 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 LS200 second stage is eye-catching but quite traditional, but the NX700 first stage is extremely innovative, with a rotating turret on the front for some of the low-pressure ports. So far, so normal. If it is rental equipment the mouthpiece can also be sanitized with mild disinfectants. Your choice largely boils down to where you'll be doing most of your diving and your access to competent and professional service/repair. Scuba tanks need to be visually inspected every year and have a properly dated VIP sticker to be filled. Most regulators can be converted from a DIN to a Yoke or vise versa but converting the regulator from one to the other cost about $100. It has four low-pressure ports and two high-pressure ports on its DC7 first stage, which is pneumatically balanced and chrome-plated brass. Scuba regulators have a first stage and second stage. They also likely will not have this adapter. This is one piece of gear that you want to own and not rent from a scuba shop, especially when diving internationally. Thumbs up for the comfort of the ComfoBite mouthpiece as well. This change in flow can serve as a good reminder to check your pressure gauge and can prevent out of air emergencies while diving in warm water. The MK25 EVO D420 is one of the latest scuba regulator models by ScubaPro. It is also now smaller and lighter for a more comfortable dive. Most divers that have an air integrated dive computer that is directly connected to the regulator do not additionally have a submersible pressure gauge (SPG). Also, more expensive modes have more high-pressure and low-pressure ports which are important when adding extra gauges and equipment like dry suits which require an additional low-pressure port. The first-stage regulator is the part that is screwed onto the scuba tank. This is the number one rule of scuba diving to never hold your breath. It also has a low noise rigid case, with a cam-lock. This regulators first stage is a balanced piston design. Working at a dive shop I have seen several tanks that ended up with significant water in them because the tank pressure was emptied during a dive. DIN regulators can be rated to a higher pressure value than a yoke valve which is also called an A-clamp. This is a decent regulator for warm water diving in under 60 feet of water. This can be done by spraying the regulator or dunking it into a tub of fresh water. DIN valves can have a working pressure up to 300 bar, hence why they are favoured by technical divers. Global Fishing Reports does not guarantee purchases made and these links should be viewed as recommendations only. This is a unique swivel, mounted on the face of the first stage instead of the top. The regulator has a patented comfort swivel which is shown in the video below. Scubapro has brought back the venerable D-series of regulators. AQUA LUNG LEGE3ND ELITE This top-shelf reg offers precision performance and enhanced ergonomics to match its good looks. The Zeagle F8 does it all. As a service tech I can attest to this. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The second stage is pneumatically balanced and maintains the same breathing effort even as depth and tank pressure changes. The rest of the world is dominated by DIN tanks and regulators. An environmental seal is a protective outer casing around your regulators first stage. The Zeo second stage is also pneumatically balanced and features a large venturi lever and big cracking resistance control knob to finetune the breathe. The only difference between this regulator and the yoke regulator above is how it is connected to the scuba tank. Cressi Leonardo wrist computer. The Cressi AC2 is also available with the XS compact second stage and is rated number one on this list. The yellow color also helps the dive buddy know which regulator they should use in the event of an air issue or low air situation. Other features of the second stage include an air balanced progressive flow control valve, dive or pre-dive switch, inner winglets to reduce exhalation effort, and a compact high-flow mouthpiece that is comfortable to wear. The Oceanic Zeo DIN regulator is an improvement to the EOS which is a popular regulator. It breathes super easy at any depth. This is a sealed piston first stage with two high pressure and five low-pressure ports. When using a DIN regulator you need to also have a DIN valve on the scuba tank. It is compact but delivers a tremendous performance, and paired up with the Dual Adj second stage, it is a great all-round performer. Personally, I think Cressi regulators are of good value and work great for most recreational diving. Features of the first stage include an extended thermal insulating system, two high-pressure ports for flexible positioning, five high flow low-pressure ports, and external adjustment of intermediate pressures. DIN regulators are the better regulators for two technical reasons. The first stage is made the chrome coated marine brass. You may be wearing thick gloves during your dives, so youll want to choose a regulator with easy-to-use switches and levers made from thick durable plastic. A balanced first stage adjusted the low-pressure output to be consistent at deep depths and varying tank pressures. To confuse you even more my wife has a Deep6 Signature series first and second and it is every bit as good as the Mk19/G260 set up for less money. These days, you can find her living and work on Mexicos Pacific coast. The MK21/C370 is a nice little unit, with good looks matched to a decent performance. You are using an out of date browser. 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. Comparing those three second stages on the "surface" the G260 breathes the easiest, then the D420/620ti seem tied. But, if youre diving in cold climates, you may need more attachment points. If you want a wireless transmitter to send tank pressure to the dive computer the regulator will need to have two or more high-pressure ports. It looks good with the chrome second stage surround, is extremely well made, boasts a silky smooth breathe and has some neat features like the Automatic Flow Control (AFC), which does away with a manual venturi lever and offers full control through the single knob, and a black PVD-coated comfort swivel on the hose. The Scubapro MK17 EVO C370 is a high-performance regulator with an environmental seal that prevents impurities from entering the first stage and makes it more suitable for cold water diving. If youre planning to dive in cold water (below 75 F), youll need a regulator built to take a beating. Global Fishing Reports participants in affiliate marketing programs. The Aqua Lung Legend is an excellent regulator, no matter what climate youre diving in. Copyright 2023 Rork Media Limited - ISSN 2514-2054 - The Speed Train. It also has an attractive sandblasted finish. It does not transfer heat well for cold water diving. The overall work of breathing past legend models was .74 J/l but is not listed for the third generation. Welcome to ScubaBoard, the world's largest scuba diving community. A comfort-fit silicone mouthpiece is soft and has tear-resistant bite tabs. The second stage is pneumatically balanced resulting in a low and consistent breathing effort. In the picture, I am diving with an aqualung legend regulator. Plenty of regulators are suitable for diving in cold climates. VERDICT: Lightweight regulator with very subtle styling, but the superior performance that belies its price point. While it is a very reliable second stage modern second stages have been improved on. In the water, it breathed effortlessly in any orientation, and the venturi and cracking resistance control really made a difference to the air flow, allowing us to finetune it. If you buy your own DIN tanks than this is not a problem. Its got all the perks you expect from a midrange regulator, but its outfitted for the cold. The large venturi lever and cracking resistance control knob were easy to use with gloved hands, and the purge was effective. Good entry-level regulator. DIN regulators also have the 0-ring that makes the regulator tank seal within the regulator. SCUBAPRO M25 A700 Regulator. For the diver that wants a little more performance than the AC2, the MC9 is a great option. Log in or Register now! There are 2 other comparably priced regs you might look at: MK25/G250V, and the Apeks XTX100. And, for this same reason, the DIN valve performs better in extreme cold. It also comes with a long 36-inch hose. 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. It also has an anti-pressure drop pneumatic spring and high capacity filter. The redesigned front cover and cracking resistance control use co-molded components that provide high levels of grip. This is a plug adapter that threads into a DIN scuba tank. Both the first and second stages have an eye-catching PVD coating, which not only looks great but also adds another degree of protection. It's rated for extreme dive environments like freezing water, caves and caverns, and shipwrecks. In the USA and in North America most divers have yoke regulators and yoke valve scuba tanks. The first stage is the metal device that attaches directly to the scuba tank via a DIN or yoke connection. Dive shops in the USA do not like dealing with DIN tanks and regulators. 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. Its first stage is robust and requires little maintenance. This regulator has an unbalanced piston first stage design which is known to be simple and reliable. It can also be converted from right-hand to left-hand if you so wish. The super-comfy mouthpiece, which is soft but has harder inserts in the bite, is very reminiscent of Atomic Aquatics. The Scubapro MK2 EVO/R195 is ideal for newly certified divers exploring in cold climates. However aluminum scuba tanks are only rated to 3,000 psi. It is paired with the trusty 52X balanced diaphragm first stage. Who knows how old rented regulators are or when the last time they have been serviced. An efficient heat exchanger makes it so this octopus can be used in cold water without freezing up in most conditions. Like most regulators, it is compatible with enriched air nitrox EAN up to 40 percent. The first and second stages can both be balanced or neither can be balanced. Yoke scuba tanks can dive with a DIN regulator with a yoke adapter for the DIN tank. Because youll likely be using thick gloves, its essential to choose a regulator with a knob large enough to grasp and adjust easily. I like the Legend. When using a wrist computer even if it transmits pressure should have an SPG that is directly connected to the regulator. Wrist computers are becoming more and more popular. Having a pressure gauge that also has a depth gauge is a good idea. As with all Oceanic products, it comes with a lifetime warranty and free parts for life, making that price even more attractive. When using this attachment the scuba tank should be filled to a max pressure of 3,000 psi. The AC2 first stage is a simple, reliable, and robust unbalanced piston design. It is known for easy breathing regardless of depth. The AL Legend can be tuned to breathe quite easily, even a little easier than the G250. The Comfo-Bite mouthpiece is also very comfy. However, the Epic also has a cracking resistance control knob for further fine-tuning of the breathe. This is a great regulator for basic and advanced diving in warm and cold water environments. This is a top-quality regular that is made with brass and titanium components. It is not a big deal but is a small hassle to change the o-ring when it is leaking. The yoke valve, also known as an A-clamp, was at one point the industry norm, until the arrival of the DIN (Deutsche Industrie Norm) valve from Europe, which was embraced by technical divers thanks to its improved safety, and the option of increased tank pressure. Maybe look toward the MK 25/19/17 and a G260 for the future, Im not much of an Aqua lung fan but they are good regulators. Still waiting to find a 1st that balances as good as any Legend I had on my Flow Benches. Check with the shop to see what they would say if you try the LX and for whatever reason, you don't like if they'll take it back in exchange for the scubapro? But if you are planning to take the plunge in extreme cold or icy conditions, you should choose a regulator specially designed to prevent freeflow and freezing over. This boils down to the fact that the environmentally sealed first stage will keep out contaminants and perform superbly in cold water. That first stage is certainly an eye-catcher. Mares gave their regulator line-up a serious overhaul for 2019, and the Epic Adj 82X still represents a formidable unit. The 200LX features a braided hose, large venturi lever, chunky cracking resistance control, and has a big purge. It looks good too, in an understated way with the PVD finish inserts, and I like the red-and-black colour scheme. This helps fight fatigue while diving under challenging conditions and prevents you from feeling air starved when diving in cold climates. BEST FOR: BEST OF THE BEST. Yoke valves are more common but only work with tanks filled to less than 3000 PSI. JavaScript is disabled. Its second stage features the comfo-bite mouthpiece and a Venturi knob to control the airflow and breathing effort. This has double DFC (Dynamic Flow Control) ports, which minimise intermediate pressure drop during inhalation, thus maximising gas delivery. Features of the first stage include a jet seat high flow piston, factory sealed, and nitrox ready. And, for some climates a dry suit is mandatory. 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.
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