CRACKING RESISTANCE:Yes |VENTURI:No|VERDICT:xDeep have carved a solid reputation with their wings, and it continues here. Its got all the perks you expect from a midrange regulator, but its outfitted for the cold. An oversized cap and heat exchanging fins improve anti-freeze properties. The venturi is a bit dinky compared with some of the others, so a bit more awkward with gloves on, but still workable. The oval face has a decent-sized purge, and a swivel aids comfort in use. both are great - go with the one you can get serviced locally at a dive shop you like. Higher-end regulators are sealed and balanced which becomes important when diving deep and when diving in cold water. A turreted (vertical tower shaped) first stage offers many advantages over a traditional horizontal valve, especially when diving in cold water. Nice large purge, comfy mouthpiece, neat first stage and awesome price point. Hollis popped back into the market with a bang last year, and the 150LX follows on nicely from where the 100LX left off in this price bracket in 2019. The AL Legend can be tuned to breathe quite easily, even a little easier than the G250. These days, there are plenty of options weighing in at less than 2.5 lbs. ScubaPro MK21 regulator has a piston balanced first stage. However, when diving on vacation traveling with scuba tanks is not very practical. Where it all goes xDeep is the design of the body. The first stage is made with nickel-plated brass. Scubapro MK25 Evo A700 Carbon Black Tech. Some regulators need to be serviced every year and others need to be serviced every few years. This regulator is made in the USA. Features of the first stage include a jet seat high flow piston, factory sealed, and nitrox ready. Great all-round regulator. The octopus is included in the dive package. The large circular purge button is also simple to find and operate. What is better a balanced or unbalanced regulator? A durable lightweight polymer is used for the shell of the regulator and is good for warm water diving. SCUBAPRO M25 A700 Regulator. It is paired with the trusty 52X balanced diaphragm first stage. The MK2 Evo is an efficient piston first stage. Best Scuba Diving Regulators | PADI 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. There are over 12 different models of ScubaPro regulators. If it is rental equipment the mouthpiece can also be sanitized with mild disinfectants. 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). This extra layer insulates your regulators internal moving parts, preventing freezing. The Leg3nd Ultra has a venturi lever and a cracking resistance control knob, for completely independent control over the ease of the breathe. It is well priced, and a decent performer all-round. The first state is an overcompensation diaphragm design. The innovative second stage has a cracking resistance control as per the norm, but the venturi control is located around the braided hose, and resembles a motorcycle throttle. But, a dramatic change in flow is impractical for cold climates. Unbalanced regulators becomes more difficult to breathe from as your tank has less air. In the secondary regulator, there are large ribs that act as a heat exchanger to protect internal mechanisms. This is a decent regulator for warm water diving in under 60 feet of water. 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. In the video below I am scuba diving a wreck in the Florida keys with some friends and encounter a large great white shark. Because youll likely be using thick gloves, its essential to choose a regulator with a knob large enough to grasp and adjust easily. It is up to divers with DIN regulators to have this adapter. An extended thermal insolating system delays ice build-up on internal components. 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. And, for some climates a dry suit is mandatory. AQUA LUNG LEGE3ND ELITE This top-shelf reg offers precision performance and enhanced ergonomics to match its good looks. DIN vales have fewer o-ring problems and can typically be used with steel tanks up to 3500 psi. The super-comfy mouthpiece, which is soft but has harder inserts in the bite, is very reminiscent of Atomic Aquatics. This regulator features a robust design packed with diver-friendly features, and it still weighs less than most models in its class. If cost is not a factor the T3 is the best regulator on the market. This equipment is being shown to help decide how many ports are needed on the regulator. Key features of the second stage include an adjustable Venturi vacuum assist, a super flow hose, a comfortable mouthpiece, and metal valve housing. Joining has its benefits and enables you to participate in the discussions. In the USA and in North America most divers have yoke regulators and yoke valve scuba tanks. The yoke connection is often the limiting factor that determines the max pressure that can be safely used while scuba diving. 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. A flow deviator on the second stage acts to control the Venturi effect with a dive or pre-dive setting. It has four low-pressure ports and two high-pressure ports on its DC7 first stage, which is pneumatically balanced and chrome-plated brass. 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. DIN to Yoke Scuba Regulator Adapter by Promate, Plug Adapter for a DIN Scuba Tank to Yoke Regulator. Registration is not required to read the forums, but we encourage you to join. The Oceanic Zeo DIN regulator is an improvement to the EOS which is a popular regulator. This has double DFC (Dynamic Flow Control) ports, which minimise intermediate pressure drop during inhalation, thus maximising gas delivery. Zeagle is a US brand that has built up a strong following for its robust, well-made BCDs, and it looks set to follow suit with its regulators. It does come nitrox ready up to 40 percent. For the diver that wants a little more performance than the AC2, the MC9 is a great option. Each month, the Scuba Diver test team assembles to rate and review a selection of dive equipment from a range of manufacturers. CRACKING RESISTANCE:Yes |VENTURI:No|VERDICT:The MK21 is a robust air-balanced piston first stage, and paired up with the C370 makes for a great reg package. I don't think there are any bad choices. It is known for easy breathing regardless of depth. The second stage is made with metal which transfers heat well and carbon fiber which makes the regulator durable and light. But, this sturdy and reliable option isnt only for taking pretty pictures. The redesigned front cover and cracking resistance control use co-molded components that provide high levels of grip. But, this can make them slightly more prone to freeflow. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Best Scuba Regulators 2021, Reviewed & Tested - Scuba Diver Mag It also has pre-orientated low-pressure and high-pressure ports and a neat pearl-chrome finish. 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. The second stage is small and lightweight as well. Despite the SPX first stage not being environmentally protected, it didnt falter in the cold even with robust testing. Features of the first stage include a large piston, extended thermal insulation system, and a removable orifice. The dive/pre-dive lever is mounted on the top, and is easy to find and operate even when wearing thick neoprene gloves. You must log in or register to reply here. And, it prevents outside contaminants like silt and sand from working their way inside. Now that you are a Scubaboard junkie, you too can collect regulators and then wonder where all your money went. Yoke valves are more common but only work with tanks filled to less than 3000 PSI. First, some DIN regulators are rated to hold about 1,000 more PSI than yoke regulators. Balanced regulators deliver the same amount of air per breath until your tank is empty. If you think you will be diving outside the USA or doing technical diving purchase a DIN regulator. DIN regulators can be rated to a higher pressure value than a yoke valve which is also called an A-clamp. Other pro-friendly features include a self-warming second stage (to prevent freezing and keep your lips comfortable) and oversized knobs that are easy to operate while wearing gloves. The D420 is reminiscent of previous D-regs, with its unusual shape of second stage. The Legend line of regulators is the best-performing regulator manufactured by Aqua Lung. 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. Ability to post and comment on topics and discussions. Its first stage is robust and requires little maintenance. Second, the regulator dangling could damage coral or damage the regulator. They also likely will not have this adapter. When looking at the second stage the first thing people notice is the unique shape. Partly cause i like the metal body and the perforated diaphragm cover but it def doesn't breathe as easy as the legend. Still waiting to find a 1st that balances as good as any Legend I had on my Flow Benches. When using a DIN regulator you need to also have a DIN valve on the scuba tank. A DIN regulator can not be used with a yoke valve scuba tank unless the regulator has an adapter. It also typically has two Venturi settings for pro-dive and driving conditions. 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. 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. Copyright 2023 Rork Media Limited - ISSN 2514-2054 - The Speed Train. Make sure to not fill the tank above 3000 psi as that is the pressure rating for most yoke regulators. 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? 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. The octopus is threaded onto a low-pressure port on the primary regulator. Top 10 Best Scuba Diving Regulators 2020 | Mike's Dive Store aqualung legend vs LX vs legend supreme. | ScubaBoard The F8 has an environmentally sealed balanced diaphragm first stage made from durable brass, and featuring a precision-machined neoflon seat. The Elite is the latest and highest-end model of the Aqua Lung Legend series of regulators. It breathes well in all positions. 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 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. It is important to occasionally use and test the secondary regulator. It features plenty of ports (for wireless air integration, dry suits, and accessories) and an easy to customize airflow. There are 2 other comparably priced regs you might look at: MK25/G250V, and the Apeks XTX100. Diaphragm first stages offer air at a lower flow rate, so they are less likely to freeflow. This regulator is rated number one because it is a low cost, durable regulator that requires little maintenance. When diving in warm water under 60 feet most regulators on the market will work. Balanced regulators also perform better during deep dives. It is important to breathe out of the nose when descending to equalize the pressure in the mask. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. It was nice and dry in all positions, coped admirably with whatever we threw at it, and the venturi and in particular, the cracking resistance control really did make a difference to the breathe. Unusual, but it works extremely well. This can be done by spraying the regulator or dunking it into a tub of fresh water. Overall, both the MK17 and Legend Supreme offer high-quality technology at half the cost of the T3. If youre hoping to buy a cold water regulator thats light enough for dive travel, youre in luck! Dive shops in the USA do not like dealing with DIN tanks and regulators. It's got all the perks you expect from a midrange regulator, but it's outfitted for the cold. It has five low-pressure ports and two high-pressure ports on its DCX first stage. It is common for the octopus to have a long 36-inch hose which is helpful when sharing air with a buddy. The balanced first stage allows for consistent breathing effort regardless of water depth or tank pressure. If the regulator falls out of the divers mouth the diver should exhale to not hold their breath. It is compact but delivers a tremendous performance, and paired up with the Dual Adj second stage, it is a great all-round performer. 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 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. This type of seal is less stable than the DIN valve, so it is better for warm water diving and less challenging conditions. The C370 second stage body is made from fibreglass reinforced nylon and now features a balanced valve and new exhaust tee. The Atomic Aquatics M1 has all the features youd expect from a cold water regulator packed into a travel-sized package. So Debra Sue, what type of diving do you intend to do? It is made with nickel-plated brass. Who knows how old rented regulators are or when the last time they have been serviced. It is installed with an 8mm hex Allen key tool that is not included. This is an imperial gauge with depth in feet and pressure in psi. It is also known as an A-clamp, as it puts an A-shaped frame over the tank valve, which is then tightened by a knob-handled screw which pushes the first stage against a sealing o-ring on the face of the tank valve itself. 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. A turreted (vertical tower shaped) first stage offers many advantages over a traditional horizontal valve, especially when diving in cold water. It is not a balanced system and does not have a high heat transfer rate for cold water diving. The Zeo second stage is also pneumatically balanced and features a large venturi lever and big cracking resistance control knob to finetune the breathe. It is one of only two regs in this price segment to feature both a venturi lever and a cracking resistance control. Check out our, For more of our top scuba gear recommendations, check out the, For the best experience turn your device horizontally, THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A COLD WATER REGULATOR. Most tank valves these days have removable inserts, making them suitable for both DIN valves and yoke valves, but if you did happen to find yourself somewhere with your DIN valve and the tanks only have valves that could accommodate yoke valves, you can get screw-on adaptors which temporarily change a DIN valve to a yoke valve. 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. Log in or Register now! This regulators first-stage has the auto closer device and a pneumatically balanced diaphragm for consistent breathing at different depths and tank pressures. This test model came with an SPX piston first stage, with two high-pressure ports and four low-pressure ports, which are angled for optimum hose routing. CRACKING RESISTANCE:No |VENTURI:Yes|VERDICT:The apeks xl4+ is the ideal travel regulator - it is lightweight, but thanks to its robust construction and the durable first stage, it can handle cold-water conditions as well, so it is the perfect all-round reg for use in this country and beyond. SCUBAPRO MK25 EVO D420 | SRP: 695.00 Scubapro has brought back the venerable D-series of regulators. The second stage regulator is the part the diver breaths from. The first stage is made the chrome coated marine brass. 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. Hollis continues to forge a path into regulators, and the flagship 200LX DCX is well worth a look. 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. And, its large easy-to-grip knobs (to customize airflow) were designed for divers wearing thick gloves. Always check the owners manual for the maintenance schedule of the regulator. It has four low-pressure ports and one high-pressure. While most travel regulators use titanium and carbon fiber to cut down on weight, these are not the best materials for cold climates. And, for this same reason, the DIN valve performs better in extreme cold. This is a sealed piston first stage with two high pressure and five low-pressure ports. 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. 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. Underwater photography is challenging in perfect dive conditions, so why buy a regulator that will make taking perfect pictures more difficult? 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). The mouthpiece is very comfortable, and the exhaust sends exhaled bubbles up the side of your head. Great cold-water regulator. The backup second-stage regulator is referred to as the octopus. It looks as good as it performs too, with the subtle grey finish on the moulded parts. Cressi air gauge with integrated Leonardo 2 dive computer. 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. As a service tech I can attest to this. Cody also has a background in aerospace engineering and neuroscience but really only takes pride in being good at one thing and that is fishing! If you dont have a huge budget, then these scuba regulators are some of the best low-cost options. It can be locked in place, or allowed to move freely, depending on whether you are diving a single cyliner, a twinset or sidemount. Second stage regulators can also be balances to help keep the breathing force consistent as depth changes. The XL4+ is a nice-looking regulator, especially with that white finish, and its subtle styling is matched by a stunning performance.