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 two high-pressure ports and two of the low-pressure ports come straight out of the main body, as per the norm, but on the front of the first stage is a large circular addition, which has another three low-pressure ports. 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. 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. The second stage is pneumatically balanced which helps keep the breathing effort constant throughout the dive. Aqua Lung Leg3nd is the third generation Legend octopus and is a top-quality secondary regulator. Gas from your SCUBA tank passes into the regulators first stage, where it forces either a piston or diaphragm open and closed with each breath. 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. The overall work of breathing past legend models was .74 J/l but is not listed for the third generation. Having said all this a new Mk25/G260 would probably be your upgrade although I don't think there is anything wrong with what you have. It breathes well in all positions. Atomic Aquatics Z2 octopus as the secondary scuba regulator. Overall, both the MK17 and Legend Supreme offer high-quality technology at half the cost of the T3. It is installed with an 8mm hex Allen key tool that is not included. In the picture, I am diving with a Cressi XS compact regulator in the Florida Keys. The average breathing effort is 1.35 J/l. Products are split into price categories and are then evaluated for performance, comfort, ease of use, build quality, looks and value for money. The colder the conditions, the more likely our second stage is to freeflow on the surface. It can also be converted from right-hand to left-hand. 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. It's rated for extreme dive environments like freezing water, caves and caverns, and shipwrecks. 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). The simulator pressurizes the chamber to simulate depths of 132 feet of seawater, 165 fsw and 198 fsw. The first stage is made the chrome coated marine brass. The large purge is easy to locate and depress, and the Venturi, while fairly small, can be operated even with thick gloves. Having a pressure gauge that also has a depth gauge is a good idea. A DIN regulator can not be used with a yoke valve scuba tank unless the regulator has an adapter. When it comes to regulators there are two main connection types a DIN or a yoke. But, in cold climates that might not be the case. As with all Oceanic products, it comes with a lifetime warranty and free parts for life, making that price even more attractive. 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). Oceanic are making inroads back into the reg market, and the Zeo is their range-topper. Regulators that feature an adjustable flow rate allow you to increase and decrease how much air you get with each breath. It has two high-pressure ports and four low-pressure ports. It is well priced, and a decent performer all-round. In the picture, I am diving with an aqualung legend regulator. DIN vales have fewer o-ring problems and can typically be used with steel tanks up to 3500 psi. The compact second stage looks great, and is lightweight in your mouth, so no jaw fatigue. It is known for easy breathing regardless of depth. The result is a compact first stage which would be an ideal first reg for a new diver, a lightweight travel regulator, or even a well-priced set-up for stage cylinders. Its second stage features the comfo-bite mouthpiece and a Venturi knob to control the airflow and breathing effort. It has dry chambers that reduce the potential for ice build-up. It's got all the perks you expect from a midrange regulator, but it's outfitted for the cold. The MK21 is Scubapros 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 Zeagle F8 does it all. It is easy to see the benefits of being part of the Huish Outdoors family. The Dual Adj is made from an ultralight technopolymer, which is abrasion resistant but extremely lightweight, making it ideal for cold-water use, but also for travel. There are external fins on the brass regulator which help prevent it from freezing when diving in cold weather conditions. Gauges do not have to be from the same company as the regulator but it is common to have matching gear. Scuba diving at night is a very fun experience. As a service tech I can attest to this. What piece of equipment should never be allowed to dangle freely? Typically you are going to read the depth from the dive computer. This helps fight fatigue while diving under challenging conditions and prevents you from feeling air starved when diving in cold climates. So, to utilize this new technology, youll need a regulator with 2 high-pressure ports. The second stage controls when the low-pressure air is released via a diaphragm opening which allows the diver to breathe. 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. It can be locked in place, or allowed to move freely, depending on whether you are diving a single cyliner, a twinset or sidemount. It provided a smooth breath in all positions, and the cracking resistance control gave a nice degree of control to the user. Personally, I think Cressi regulators are of good value and work great for most recreational diving. I have been told by many that the D420 doesn't breathe all that great on the surface. The F8s first stage is sealed and insulated, with a watertight exterior to prevent corrosion. Because youll likely be using thick gloves, its essential to choose a regulator with a knob large enough to grasp and adjust easily. The large purge is easy to locate and operate even with thick gloves, and the same goes for the venturi lever. 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. Registration is not required to read the forums, but we encourage you to join. It does come nitrox ready up to 40 percent. An environmental seal is a protective outer casing around your regulators first stage. Still waiting to find a 1st that balances as good as any Legend I had on my Flow Benches. The low-pressure value can be adjusted with an exterior Allen key screw. Some regulators need to be serviced every year and others need to be serviced every few years. It has two high-pressure ports and five low-pressure ports. The first stage and second stage components are milled from a solid bar of Titanium. This third-generation model is no different. It is equipped with a factory sealed first stage, huge purge button, comfort swivel, and no less than seven low-pressure ports and two high-pressure ports. It has four low-pressure ports and one high-pressure. 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. Yoke valves attach to the tank using an external rubber O-ring. The second stage stands out from the crowd thanks to its chrome surround on the front, and distinctive triangular-shaped purge valve. While it is a very reliable second stage modern second stages have been improved on. Decided on Apeks XL4+. The venerable Legend now Leg3nd is back in an all-new guise, and the Elite is the pick of the pack. CRACKING RESISTANCE:Yes |VENTURI:Yes|VERDICT:The F8 features an environmentally sealed diaphragm first stage, so ideal for cold-water use, and it is paired up with a lightweight second stage, which is a solid performer but doesnt actually look as eye-catching as the Onyx II second stage. 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 NX700 is the definite show-stopper when it comes to this reg. The durability of this setup is why this regulator is often used as rental gear for dive operations. The dive setting is for when the regular is in the divers mouth and requires a lower breathing effort. Did early Aqualung Legends have fixed (built-in) crowns in the first stage? VERDICT: The MK2 Evo / R195 regulator is a great way for a new diver to get on board with the Scubapro brand. 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. Hollis continues to forge a path into regulators, and the flagship 200LX DCX is well worth a look. The Zeo certainly stands out from the crowd, thanks both to its unique oval-shaped second stage and its bold white finish (a black version is also available). I have a LX Supreme for my back mount rec diving and a pair or Apeks for . The Oceanic reg benefits from being in the Huish Outdoors family with Atomic Aquatics, and features the same soft-with-harder-insert mouthpiece. Want to learn more about a technical term? The reason the octopus is yellow is to ensure the primary regulator is being used most of the time. 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. This model comes standard with high-end features like a turreted first stage and swiveling joints for easy hose routing and comfort. 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. 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 large circular purge button is also simple to find and operate. Key features of the second stage include the patented automatic flow control, seat saving dynamic orifice, elliptical exhaust valve, and comfort fit mouthpiece. An extended thermal insolating system delays ice build-up on internal components. Most DIN regulators can hold pressures up to 4300 PSI. The Legend line of regulators is the best-performing regulator manufactured by Aqua Lung. 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. The Aqua Lung Legend is an excellent regulator, no matter what climate you're diving in. The second stage regulator is the part the diver breaths from. Its first stage is a balanced piston design. And, its rated for even the coldest of climates. And, for some climates a dry suit is mandatory. It has a balanced valve which delivers abundant airflow regardless of depth, and the pivoting purge is highly efficient. Copyright 2023 Rork Media Limited - ISSN 2514-2054 - The Speed Train. 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. The first stage is chunky but quite compact, while the second stage is extremely small and lightweight you almost dont feel it in your mouth. Higher-end regulators are sealed and balanced which becomes important when diving deep and when diving in cold water. The ScubaPro MK2 EVO is a scuba regulator with an unbalanced piston first stage. JavaScript is disabled. Wrist computers are becoming more and more popular. 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. This is a good octopus for most Scubapro regulators. Diaphragm first stages offer air at a lower flow rate, so they are less likely to freeflow. Features of the first stage include a jet seat high flow piston, factory sealed, and nitrox ready. The depth gauge is available in imperial units which are feet and metric which are in meters. The redesigned front cover and cracking resistance control use co-molded components that provide high levels of grip. How often should I check my scuba cylinder. A durable lightweight polymer is used for the shell of the regulator and is good for warm water diving. Most regulators built for warm water include 4 low pressure ports (for second stages, BCD inflator hoses, and dry suits) and 1 high pressure port (for pressure gauges and computers with wireless transmitters). The xDeep regs provided a smooth breathe, and the controls were simple to find and use. 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. As you expect, all of the regulators in this price bracket performed well, but the MTX-RC was ultra-smooth in all orientations and however you are breathing through it, making it a clear favourite. The Alpha 10 SPX is a budget-priced regulator, but it doesnt skimp on performance, and it is actually quite pleasing to look at as well. The AL Legend can be tuned to breathe quite easily, even a little easier than the G250. It is not a big deal but is a small hassle to change the o-ring when it is leaking. Keep reading to learn about the best cold water regulators on the market, and the top features and considerations to keep in mind while shopping. It is equipped with Scubapros X-TIS (Extended Thermal Insulating System), which fully insulates the international mechanism from the environment. Yoke valves have a working pressure up to 232 bar. 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. All products reviewed have been fully dived and tested. When using a DIN regulator you need to also have a DIN valve on the scuba tank. The scuba octopus is a backup of the second stage regulator. VERDICT: Lightweight regulator with very subtle styling, but the superior performance that belies its price point. If the tank pressure ever falls below around 300 psi the tank should also be visually inspected as seawater could have entered the tank. While most travel regulators use titanium and carbon fiber to cut down on weight, these are not the best materials for cold climates. So Debra Sue, what type of diving do you intend to do? On the second stage, the soft co-moulded purge button is effective and easy to locate and operate even with thick neoprene gloves, the Comfo-Bite mouthpiece is still one of the best on the market in my opinion, and the co-moulded exhaust tee efficiently vents exhaled bubbles either side of your face. I just replaced my glacier with an LX and love it! The regulator had two high-pressure ports and four low-pressure ports. CRACKING RESISTANCE:Yes |VENTURI:No|VERDICT:The Zeo FDXi is great for travelling divers thanks to its compact first stage, but as it is also rated for cold-water use, it is the perfect all-round package for divers who dive in temperate and tropical waters. 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. But, this sturdy and reliable option isnt only for taking pretty pictures. Mares were absent from this price bracket last year, and it is good to see them back in the mix with a new regulator. I like the Legend. Zeagle have long been producing top-quality BCDs and wings, and now they are well-established in the world of regulators after teaming up with the knowledgeable team at Atomic Aquatics. It features a yellow cover, a long hose, and a reversible attachment. The oval face has a decent-sized purge, and a swivel aids comfort in use. These days, you can find her living and work on Mexicos Pacific coast. In the USA and in North America most divers have yoke regulators and yoke valve scuba tanks. The MK25 EVO and the D420 make a solid pairing. Plenty of regulators are suitable for diving in cold climates. 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.

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