While it is a very reliable second stage modern second stages have been improved on. This equipment is being shown to help decide how many ports are needed on the regulator. The R195 second stage is a classic downstream design, with a Venturi lever that is easy to locate even wearing thick gloves. The mouthpiece is also very comfortable. CRACKING RESISTANCE:No |VENTURI:Yes |VERDICT:The Hollis DC7 / 150LX is a great package - the compact first stage has excellent cold-water performance but is still quite lightweight, and the second stage has a large purge and venturi lever, and a comfortable mouthpiece. This can waste a lot of air and cause stress on the surface. 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. I have been told by many that the D420 doesn't breathe all that great on the surface. Engineered to provide a comfortable, low-effort work of breathing in warm and cold water, the Leg3nd is ready for any environment. Unbalanced regulators becomes more difficult to breathe from as your tank has less air. It balances air pressure for consistent breathing regardless of depth or tank pressure. However aluminum scuba tanks are only rated to 3,000 psi. There are 2 other comparably priced regs you might look at: MK25/G250V, and the Apeks XTX100. Unbalanced systems are simple and reliable. This is a decent regulator for warm water diving in under 60 feet of water. Features of the first stage include a large piston, extended thermal insulation system, and a removable orifice. The pivoting purge and motorcycle throttle venturi control was again well received, and the Team also liked the cracking resistance control, which although quite small compared with others here was still operable with thick gloves on. It looks good too, in an understated way, with the 316 stainless steel elements, and I like the red-and-black colour scheme. For those who are regularly diving, these scuba regulators will meet your needs and last a lifetime. A DIN regulator can not be used with a yoke valve scuba tank unless the regulator has an adapter. The Oceanic Zeo DIN regulator is an improvement to the EOS which is a popular regulator. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. Having a good mask is very important when scuba diving. The octopus is included in the dive package. Technical divers, cave divers, and wreck enthusiasts prefer this style because it is so secure. Yoke valves have a working pressure up to 232 bar. It is equipped with Scubapros X-TIS (Extended Thermal Insulating System), which fully insulates the international mechanism from the environment. It comes with braided Aqua Flex hose. It has at least one high-pressure output port to measure the pressure in the tank with a manual gauge or a dive computer. If youre diving in warm water, you wont notice much of a difference in performance between the two. The second stage is pneumatically balanced resulting in a low and consistent breathing effort. As a service tech I can attest to this. My advice would be if you know you are only going to be doing basic warm water diving in the USA then buy a yoke regulator. It also has an anti-pressure drop pneumatic spring and high capacity filter. For this price point, this is exceptional value for money. Maxwelll: I demo'd the MBS in the pool - felt good, breathed very smoothly, and you could definitely feel the difference in air delivery when adjusting the MBS (master breathing system = combined venturi / cracking effort knob). So, to utilize this new technology, youll need a regulator with 2 high-pressure ports. If you stick with diving, this regulator will make an excellent backup and is a top pick for deco tanks, too. But, in cold climates that might not be the case. It is required to have a secondary regulator when scuba diving. It comes in both a DIN and yoke model. If you buy your own DIN tanks than this is not a problem. Second stages today offer something the G250 doesnt have, a micro adjust that allows the service tech to fine tune it. Scuba tanks need to be visually inspected every year and have a properly dated VIP sticker to be filled. The super-comfy mouthpiece, which is soft but has harder inserts in the bite, is very reminiscent of Atomic Aquatics. 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. 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. What temperature? The DIN valve is increasingly growing in popularity thanks to the fact that the first stages are smaller, more compact and lighter than the equivalent yoke valve, so a better option for travelling divers, plus they are more secure when diving in an overhead environment, such as a wreck or a cave, due to the long screw-in thread into the tank valve, and weve already mentioned the increased tank pressure making DIN valves the go-to reg style for techies. It has been improved upon by Scubapros G260 via the micro-adjust and exhalation effort. It is common for the octopus to have a long 36-inch hose which is helpful when sharing air with a buddy. The MK2 Evbo paired up with the R195 makes a decent budget-priced route into the brand. The chromed overbalanced diaphragm first stage offers total environmental protection, giving it phenomenal cold-water performance, and the new heat exchanger, which has a bigger surface area and a co-moulded end cap, gives it excellent resistance to freezing. 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. It incorporates Mares VAD (Vortex Assisted Design), an air bypass tube that delivers air to the mouthpiece, creating a swirling vortex with a low-pressure area in the centre that keeps the diaphragm down during inhalation, for easy breathing at all depths. It breathes well in all positions. No doubting the performance of the F8, though the breathe was nice and smooth in all positions, the cracking resistance control is large and easy to use, as is the venturi lever, and the mouthpiece is comfortable. Again, regardless of the thickness of exposure protection on the hands, the controls were easy to use, especially the cracking resistance control knob. It is made with nickel-plated brass. It is not a big deal but is a small hassle to change the o-ring when it is leaking. The ScubaPro MK25 A700 EVO carbon black tech is a top-quality durable scuba regulator. The Cressi AC2 is also available with the XS compact second stage and is rated number one on this list. The rest of the world is dominated by DIN tanks and regulators. DIN vales have fewer o-ring problems and can typically be used with steel tanks up to 3500 psi. Because youll likely be using thick gloves, its essential to choose a regulator with a knob large enough to grasp and adjust easily. Choose a regulator made from a sturdy, insulating metal like brass or nickel instead. 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 difference between piston and diaphragm regulators is the mechanism by which your air is delivered. Nice large purge, comfy mouthpiece, neat first stage and awesome price point. 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. When using a wrist computer even if it transmits pressure should have an SPG that is directly connected to the regulator. A turreted (vertical tower shaped) first stage offers many advantages over a traditional horizontal valve, especially when diving in cold water. 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. Both reg sets have excellent breathing performance and both perform well in any water conditions. That first stage is certainly an eye-catcher. It features plenty of ports (for wireless air integration, dry suits, and accessories) and an easy to customize airflow. DIVER TEST: Scubapro Mk25 EVO S620Ti Review The venerable Legend now Leg3nd is back in an all-new guise, and the Elite is the pick of the pack. 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. In the USA and in North America most divers have yoke regulators and yoke valve scuba tanks. This over-balanced diaphragm reg features an innovative over-moulded first-stage endcap, one high-pressure port, four low-pressure ports and comes with a braided hose. The second stage is more-traditional, with a cracking resistance control and venturi lever. If you have short listed aqualung for yourself, I am sure you must have done a fair bit of research. Before any tank is filled the VIP date, Hydro date, and tank pressure rating should be checked. It also has a low noise rigid case, with a cam-lock. The FDXi first stage is small and compact, yet is still a pneumatically balanced and environmentally sealed diaphragm design, with four low-pressure ports and two high-pressure ports. I just replaced my glacier with an LX and love it! The Z3 scored very highly with the Test Team and it is a keenly priced way to get on the Atomic ladder. An oversized cap and heat exchanging fins improve anti-freeze properties. 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. Features of the first stage include the auto closure device, anti-freeze design, auto-balanced design, low breathing effort maintained at deep depths, and soft-grip material for easy regulator removal from the scuba tank. High-pressure ports locations allow the regulator to face up or down. Outside of Atomic Aquatics products, the closest you get to a high-quality regulator is the SCUBAPRO M25 A700. The first and second stage weighs under 1.8 pounds which makes it the lightest regulator in the world. I also have an Atomic ST1 with sealed first stage and that is excellent. It has two high-pressure ports and five low-pressure ports. Scubapro MK25 Evo A700 Carbon Black Tech. The 150LX features a braided hose and large venturi lever, and has a big purge. This regulator has an unbalanced piston first stage design which is known to be simple and reliable. 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. Second, the regulator dangling could damage coral or damage the regulator. Its pretty hard to improve on the G250 and as James points out even older stuff performs great. 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. If the regulator falls out of the divers mouth the diver should exhale to not hold their breath. Captain Cody has worked on charter fishing boats in the Florida Keys, Virgin Islands, and Alaska. The scuba octopus is a backup of the second stage regulator. Each month, the Scuba Diver test team assembles to rate and review a selection of dive equipment from a range of manufacturers. As with all Oceanic products, it comes with a lifetime warranty and free parts for life, making that price even more attractive. If the diver does hold their breathe and is ascending it could cause lung over-expansion which can be fatal. Still waiting to find a 1st that balances as good as any Legend I had on my Flow Benches. Which regulator suits you? | Lucas Divestore This is especially important if youll be diving in extreme cold and using thick gloves. The second stage stands out from the crowd thanks to its chrome surround on the front, and distinctive triangular-shaped purge valve. Ability to post and comment on topics and discussions. The MK25 is a overbalanced piston first stage whereas the Aqualung is a overbalanced diaphragm first stage. Steel tanks can be rated up to 3500 psi but are commonly filled to 3,300 psi. Personally, I think Cressi regulators are of good value and work great for most recreational diving. As many of our readers dive in all year round in a range of temperatures, we generally test regulators in February and March, when water temperatures are at their lowest in the inland sites much to the chagrin of the Test Team members. The large venturi lever and cracking resistance control knob were easy to use with gloved hands, and the purge was effective. The oval face has a decent-sized purge, and a swivel aids comfort in use. This has double DFC (Dynamic Flow Control) ports, which minimise intermediate pressure drop during inhalation, thus maximising gas delivery. 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. The XS compact second stage has an adjustment for the Venturi effect and a low noise semi-rigid case. Dive shops in the USA do not like dealing with DIN tanks and regulators. However, the second stage had no dive adjustment controls, and that is where the MTX-RC comes in the second stage has a venturi lever, and a cracking resistance control knob. A pre-dive switch allows you to reduce your regulators flow to prevent this issue while entering the water or waiting to begin your descent. Top 9 Best Scuba Regulators of 2022 The Adventure Junkies The yoke valve is easily recognisable as it utilises a clamp set-up to hold the first stage onto the pillar valve. Unusual, but it works extremely well. Scuba regulators have a first stage and second stage. Log in or Register now! The redesigned front cover and cracking resistance control use co-molded components that provide high levels of grip. This is a durable regulator with good airflow performance. The most noticeable difference between balanced and unbalanced regulators is how they breathe when you are low on air. Products are split into price categories and are then evaluated for performance, comfort, ease of use, build quality, looks and value for money. Can you use a DIN regulator on a yoke valve? If you think you will be diving outside the USA or doing technical diving purchase a DIN regulator. An elliptical exhaust valve allows for easy exhales. The Aqua Lung Legend is an excellent regulator, no matter what climate you're diving in. Cody strives to provide detailed information about the best fishing gear and tactics to help both novice and experienced anglers have a more productive and enjoyable time on the water. The Sherwood Blizzard is one of the best selling cold water regulators of all time, and a top pick for instructors and safety divers. The Atomic Z2 Octopus is the same as the Z2 primary second stage which is a top-quality regulator. 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. 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. 9 Best Scuba Regulators in 2020 over 475 - Scuba Diver Mag Log in or Register now! Second stage regulators can also be balances to help keep the breathing force consistent as depth changes. All the features and breathing performance of the MK25 EVO/A700 with the addition of a Black Tech coating that protects both stages against the ravages of salt water and corrosion. As a service tech I can attest to this. Underwater photography is challenging in perfect dive conditions, so why buy a regulator that will make taking perfect pictures more difficult? If the LUX catches your eye, that 1st stage has a PVD coating. The first choice needed to be made when purchasing a regulator is whether to get a DIN or a yoke regulator. The colder the conditions, the more likely our second stage is to freeflow on the surface. The reason some scuba shops only fill to 3,000 psi is that this is the most common pressure used. It has four low-pressure ports and one high-pressure. It is very common after a few dives to have a bad o-ring that leaks on a yoke valve scuba tank. It is not a balanced system and does not have a high heat transfer rate for cold water diving. The Epic Adj 82X put in a strong showing in this Group Test, and if anything, the Test Team felt we had to dial down the air flow it was so powerful. Home Fishing Gear Scuba and Snorkeling 17 Best Scuba Diving Regulators 2023. Having a wrist computer is great for non-technical diving. Aqua Lung Leg3nd is the third generation Legend octopus and is a top-quality secondary regulator. It is important to occasionally use and test the secondary regulator. 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. The cracking resistance control and venturi lever make a real difference to the breathe, which is smooth in all orientations. 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). Key features of the second stage include Venturi dive or pre-dive settings, and an orthodontic mouthpiece. Diaphragm first stages offer air at a lower flow rate, so they are less likely to freeflow. Once you get good at scuba diving, spearfishing can make diving more interesting. CRACKING RESISTANCE:Yes |VENTURI:No|VERDICT:The Z3 may be the affordable entry-level model into the world of Atomic Aquatics, but it has a lot in common with its more-expensive siblings. The XL4+ is one of their newest regulator effectively an XL4 but with an added high-pressure port and a nifty white colour scheme and as with its predecessor, was designed from the outset to be a very lightweight, travel-friendly unit, but crucially, also cold-water rated. The 52X also has an NCC (Natural Convection Channel), which increases cold-water performance by creating a flow of water across the regulator. The AC2 first stage is a simple, reliable, and robust unbalanced piston design. Cressi air gauge with integrated Leonardo 2 dive computer. The tried-and-tested MK25, now in its improved EVO guise, is compact, durable and efficient, and its works well with the relatively compact and robust D420 second stage. If you find the advice usual, please consider using the buy now button, we'll earn a small commission which helps us write more content. But, some divers feel that they are harder to breathe from. Global Fishing Reports participants in affiliate marketing programs. The first stage is a solid piece of kit, with natural dynamic flow control on all low-pressure ports, which are mounted on a swivel turret, and tilted so you can find that perfect routing.
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