Performance in ANSTI testing was impressive, with the Fusion 52X recording one of the lowest work-of-breathing ratings. On the ANSTI machine, the XS Compacts performance was rated very good at max recreational depth and good down to our test limits. The Supreme version is equipped with an environmental dry chamber on the first stage and a lip shield on the second stage. scubadiving.com is part of PADI Media, a division of PADI Worldwide. They had second stages that were compact and didn't create bubble interference. When paired with the Ellipse Balanced second stage, which includes an internal heat exchanger. Advanced Coating Tri-Material Valve Technology, Air balanced flow-through piston in a chrome-plated brass body, Patent-pending XTIS (Extended Thermal Insulating System) fully isolates the mechanical elements from the cold, increasing freezing resistance 30 percent over the previous MK25. The VAD system delivers excellent and natural breathing at any depth. Divers found the Venturi control well marked, easy to operate and effective at blocking free-flows. Sign up for Scuba Divings weekly email and never miss another story. In ANSTI tests the Prestige recorded very good scores across the board, and in ergonomic testing divers reported no more tendency to free-flow at the surface than any of the other regs in the test. Lightweight Jacketed 3/8 Threaded Low Pressure (LP) Hose, Secondary Diaphragm: Special Seal Chamber Completely Isolates Spring Chamber from Water, Lightweight PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) Treated Brass Body, T Shape for Better Hose Routing and Compact Profile, High-Efficiency Nickel-Plated Bronze Conical Filter, Pneumatically Balanced Second Stage Design, Hose: 3/8 Thread High Flow Superflex 29.5 (75 cm), NCC System Increases Cold Water Performance, Material: Satin Chrome Plated Marine Brass, A.C.T. The MX100 performs very good at recreational depth and good to up to 200 feet. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. With more than three full turns of adjustment, changes made a big difference, allowing test divers to dial in performance and helping the DX200 earn a very good score for ease of breathing and effectiveness of adjustment. Scavengers eat animals that are already dead instead of hunting live prey. The improved positioning of the four Low Pressure and two High Pressure ports, all pre-oriented, also ensures better hose distribution. The glossy purge cover and satin-finish metal surrounding it give the reg a refined appearance. The reg proved capable on the ANSTI machine, where it was rated very good at recreational depth and good to test limits. The NCC System increases cold water performance by creating a flow of water across the regulator. No piece of dive gear is more important to keep in proper working condition than your reg. Scubia Is a participant in affiliate programs from Amazon Associates, Commission Junction, Click Bank, and Share A Sale. The Cressi T10-SC delivers performance, ergonomic reliability, and ease of maintenance making this regulator a product for true diving professionals. 6 Bubble interference in normal swimming position Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The dual diver-adjustable features allow for condition-specific tuning during each stage of the dive. Divers liked the second stages light weight, its braided hose and its purge-cover design, which is effective and easy to use even when wearing gloves. The XTIS makes this possible by fully isolating the mechanical elements of the first stage from the cold, increasing freezing resistance by an average of 50 percent over the previous MK2 first stage. These may be some of the many questions you think about when looking into a new regulator for scuba diving. stage and performance cred, giving this regulator a just-for-techies If you are serious about scuba diving you understand the time and effort it takes to select the right gear for you. The flow is driven by the change of density in water with temperature. In ANSTI machine testing the RS790 demonstrated excellent performance at a normal breathing rate at recreational depth, and very good performance to the limits of our test depths and breathing rates (and also reached one of the greatest depths of any reg in this category without breaking test parameters, even at an extremely high breathing rate). It can be a big investment and it's important to find. Goliath grouper spawning, manatee snorkeling, freshwater springs, shark diving: it's all here, and this is when you can do it. The new valve guarantees longevity and advanced performance. Mares calls this a radical departure from other regs, and you'll hear no argument from us. All delicate parts of the 1st stage including the main spring are sealed behind the clear hydrostatic diaphragm away from the effects of salt or other contaminants in the water, making it environmentally sealed. In ANSTI testing, the DX200 was rated very good across the board at all test depths. Test divers rated it good for easy, dry breathing regardless of position. The cool finish and metal diaphragm cover give it a tough, all-business look. What regulators are rated highly but are still reasonably economical? just-right purge, but what they will love is that smooth, effortless $519.00 Buy NowReturn to Scuba Diving Best Regulators Reviews List. Years from now you will appreciate the removable stainless steel valve seat, easily replaced to extend the first stage service life. This new mid-range regulator from Aqua Lung is available in two versions. 8 Ease of clearing regulator using the blowing method It backed that up in our ANSTI testing, chalking up excellent ratings at all depths and breathing rates, recording the lowest work-of-breathing scores at recreational depth, and delivering air within our test parameters, even at a torturous 75-liter-per-minute breathing rate down to 240 feet the deepest of any reg in our test. But test divers found nothing muscle-bound about its in-water performance, where it earned comments including super smooth and like butter! Divers liked the regs effective Venturi and breathing-adjustment controls, and its just-right purge, but what they loved was that smooth, effortless breathing. Compact, reliable, and performance are the key words for describing the new Mares first stage. We tested the latest version of the Cyklon Metal (the Cyklon 5000 has a plastic second stage), which, with its mix of shiny and matte metalwork and large, black diaphragm end cap, has a vintage look that verges on steampunk. And above all else they delivered smooth, quiet breathing, with as little effort as possible. Feel free to send me an email if you have questions. The XS Compact was one of our divers favorites in last years ergo test, thanks to its really tiny, lightweight second stage, which was easy on the jaw. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. IT has a large, soft, easy-touch purge cover, and a Venturi switch thats well marked and located on the top of the mouthpiece, where its easy to reach and operate. This represents the European conformance standard EN250, and is also the depth and breathing rate commonly used by manufacturers when determining a regulators performance. But don't let this fool you as it gets constantly reviewed over the years, and this regulator has lots of admirers in the world due to the fact that it is extremely simple and strong, features that make it easy to use and result in low-cost maintenance. Scientists Discover Incredibly Salty Underwater Lakes On the Floor of the Red Sea, A Year-Round Guide to the Best Diving in Florida, Say Hello to Hells Bells, the Worlds Largest Collection of Living Stalactites, The Best Destinations for Diving Caves, Caverns and Grottoes, WAKATOBI! In ANSTI testing, the Cyklon scored a rating of very good at recreational depth. The MK2 EVO/R195 also won ScubaLabs Best Buy for 2015. In ANSTI testing, the T10 proved one of the top performers in our test, racking up excellent scores for ease of breathing at all depths and breathing rates. The Cyklon Metal, with its shiny and matte metalwork and large, black diaphragm end cap gives it a vintage look. But the regs our testers liked best had controls that were easy to use and effective (and well marked). This means instant airflow at any tank pressure and water temperature for a real carefree dive. The barrel on the balanced diaphragm first stage doesnt swivel, but the four low-pressure ports are angled at 20 and 30 degrees for additional hose-routing options. It can bit a bit strong so you will want to be careful as you purge to avoid an unwanted blast of air. Where the sprocket-like heat sink connects to the second stage, fingers are protected from scrapes by the wide, soft hose cover. But while the second stage is ambidextrous, the purge is less so. The graphs below show results of ANSTI testing on the same reg at different depths and breathing rates. Below the centerline shows the negative pressure required to inhale; above shows the positive pressure needed to exhale, measured in millibars. By submitting above, you agree to Scuba Diving's privacy policy. If possible, soak your reg while its installed on a tank and pressurized, which will prevent water from getting inside. They had purge controls that could clear the reg effectively without an excessive blast of air. The CORE comes standard with Aqua Lungs unique, patented, auto-closure device (ACD) which seals water out. I am a professional underwater photographer and have spent over 25 years traveling our marvelous planet taking photos of our wonderful oceans. 7-Ns Ocean Bungalow; diving magnificent, protected reefs; unlimited diving on house reef; gourmet meals; world-class service The regular Core version and the Core Supreme. Dont just give your reg a quick rinse after diving give it a good long soak, especially if youve done multiple dives in salt water. $617.95 Buy NowReturn to Scuba Diving Best Regulators Reviews List. all depths and breathing rates, recording the lowest work-of-breathing These precisely measured volumes of air 2.5 liters multiplied by the breathing rate are called Respiratory Minute Volumes (RMVs). It's extremely important to keep ecosystems clean and healthy. The Zeagle F8 was also rated as the Best Buy among regulators over $500 by ScubaLabs. It includes the R-700 which is a balanced diaphragm first stage designed for cold-water use, it features a dry ambient pressure chamber that prevents water contact with the diaphragm maximizing performance in temperate water conditions below 50F/10C. The second stage is compact and light, with smooth edges and soft parts. Metal valve housing is built rugged and increases overall reliability. The regs we tested in this price range showed slightly higher performance overall on the breathing simulator than their thriftier brethren (principally at greater depths and extreme breathing rates). Reversible hose attachment makes it easy to use on deco tanks. One of the most extreme environments on the planet, such oxygen-less pools may hold the keys to important medical breakthroughs. Like its sibling the Xstream, it can be used on either the left or right side. While our test-team divers were impressed with the performance of the $500-and-under regulators, they found that some of the extras that come with these pricier models really are well worth it. Divers noticed this attention to ergonomics, and that earned the F8 top ergonomic scores in our test. Scubapro introduced the MK2 first stage back in 1963, and since then (with many updates) its earned a reputation for smooth performance and the reliability of an anvil. Divers rated it good for easy, dry breathing regardless of position. The regulator is remarkably easy to inspect and access the mechanism to improve maintenance and calibration operations. vibe. A: As you'd expect for a piece of gear as personal as a reg, test divers have varying opinions. Compact, reliable, and performance are the key words for describing the Mares 15X first stage. Our testing suggests they usually hit very close to the mark. Second stage material: technopolymers, elastomers, with components in metal and cover with Luxury Technology treatment for abrasion and scratch resistance. The regulator proved capable on the ANSTI machine, where it was rated very good at recreational depth and good to test limits. Streamlined exhaust tee directs bubbles to the side of face. products that not only keep you safe underwater but also keep you within a budget. The Fusion 52X second stage incorporates a double DFC system that provides a consistent flow of air at any depth, even when breathing simultaneously from both the primary second stage and the octopus. Like the other regs in this price range, the Cores only user control is a Venturi lever, which divers found well positioned and easy to grip with or without gloves, and rated good for blocking free-flows (although some divers would have preferred the MIN and MAX markings on the rounded portion of the lever to be located on the top of the second stage, where they would be more visible). Scubapro has been the Leader in the Evolution of piston controlled first stages since the beginning. 1 Ease of breathing in swimming position None we tested in this price category had breathing resistance adjustments, rotating first stages, swivel hose connections, titanium goodies, etc. The Xstream has no adjustments, but test divers reported no issues with free-flows. The choice of many Navys around the world since 1958, One of the easiest breathing regulators on the market, Breathes the same regardless of diver position in the water, 2nd stage is engineered to be utilized at the divers left or right side, Side exhaust for less bubble interference, All metal durable 2nd stage reduces dry mouth and enhances comfort, Superior Ultra-High Airflow System, Maximum Performance in All-Temperatures & Conditions, 1st & 2nd Stage Body & Housing: Chromed with PVD Black Finished Brass, Superior Cold Water Performance Equal to Scubapros MK17 First Stage, CE Approved for 3360psi (230 bars) in Cold Water Conditions, Proprietary Insulating Coating On-Key Internal Components, Balanced Composite/Stainless Steel Flow-Thru-Piston, LP Ports Mounted on Swivel Turret Cap for Maximum Hose Routing, Diver-Adjustable Venturi-Initiated Vacuum Assist (VIVA). Key Features include: Scubapro introduced the MK2 first stage back in 1963, and it has earned a reputation for smooth performance and the reliability of an anvil. 4 Wetness in normal swimming position This is the U.S. Navys Class A test depth and breathing rate (although the Navy uses a higher HP supply pressure than we do). ScubaLab tested 14 new regs over and under the $500 price point in an ANSTI breathing simulator and in the water. Two high flow low pressure ports, two standard LP ports and 2 HP ports. ScubaLab put these regs through two tests the first is conducted on a breathing simulator (objective), and the second by our team of test divers (ergonomic). This provides increased resistance to freezing in cold water and less dry mouth. I take my photography and equipment seriously and try to provide insights into both taking photos as well as the gear needed to get the right shot. Breathing adjustments allowed fine-tuning airflow with changes in depth or breathing demands. The Fusion's unique design elements include the long, curved air-bypass tube to the mouthpiece, a purge cover thats hinged like a trap door, and a rotating air control on the hose fitting that the manual says works like a motorcycle throttle twist forward for less, back for more. Airflow at 2900psi/200bar: 1400 l/min 50 SCFM. Located opposite the hose and angled toward the back, it can only be easily pressed with the hand on that side, and a careless jab will kick of a blast of air that some test divers found too forceful (though a benefit of the design is it wont free-flow in a strong current or on a fast scooter.) Otherwise the two versions appeared identical. We conducted tests on an ANSTI wet breathing simulator at Dive Lab, a commercial test facility in Panama City Beach, Florida. A PADI Worldwide Company. Roger Roy, ScubaLab Director. It tied the high ergonomic scores in every category except head-down position, where divers rated it just good for ease of breathing and dry air. The second stage is light enough to be quite comfortable in the mouth. Metal components, including metal air barrel and metal valve inlet tube, increase resistance to freezing when diving in extreme conditions. Divers also thought the reg was noisier than average on intake, with a few finding the noise bothersome. This is the best diving for every season in a state with endless possibility. Otherwise the latest version has all the attributes that we liked last year: a large, soft, easy-touch purge cover, and a Venturi switch thats well marked and located on the top of the mouthpiece, where its easy to reach and operate. The SC designation on this model of the new T10 stands for sealed chamber, signifying the environmentally sealed diaphragm first stage thats rated for cold water. The large, triangular purge cover is rigid and a little stiff in the center, but just a touch along one of the corners clears the reg easily. The simulator monitors how much effort is required to breathe, measuring the work of breathing in joules per liter (j/l). Venturi-Initiated Vacuum Assist (VIVA) dive/pre-dive switch prevents free flows. The top graph was taken at 132 feet at 15 breaths per minute, and recorded a work-of-breathing score of .73 joules per liter excellent performance, showing it was able to deliver air at that rate and depth with little effort. I have always consulted my local dive shops for recommendations but I found that most shops are recommending what they have in store at that time which puts you into a narrow selection category. Learn how your comment data is processed. The first stage valve is environmentally isolated to preserve performance in harsh conditions. The RS790 has excellent performance at a normal breathing rate at recreational depth, and very good performance at depths up to 200 feet. So please stop by my website or my blog for more inspiration from around the world and let me know if you have any comments. Featuring the DFC system, it meets all divers demands at any depth. Of course, their lack of breathing resistance adjustments means its especially important that their factory presets strike the right compromise between too much and too little at varying depths and breathing rates. In ANSTI tests it was rated excellent at recreational depth, and very good throughout the range of depths and breathing rates. Divers The most important feature of the HOG technical second stage is the amazing breathing performance! The Fusions unique design elements include the long, curved air-bypass tube to the mouthpiece, a purge cover thats hinged like a trap door, and a rotating air control on the hose fitting that the manual says works like a motorcycle throttle twist forward for less, back for more. In some cases, that means youre giving up a bit of comfort or convenience, such as the additional options for hose routing that you get with a rotating first stage, or the ability to precisely fine-tune your regs breathing resistance at a particular depth and workload. While theres only about 18 of a turn in the Venturi lever, the settings proved just right, with surface free-flows curtailed and easy breathing at depth. Lightweight construction; Weight without hose 140gr. Zeagles new flagship regulator leverages the companys heritage (F8 is a nod to the long-running Flathead regulator series), but with a different look and feel oriented as much toward comfort as performance. The Compacts latest version maintains the trim profile of the second stage but pairs it with an environmentally sealed MC9- SC (for sealed chamber) first stage rated for cold-water use. Divers noticed this attention to ergonomics, and that earned the F8 top ergonomic scores by ScubaLabs. Like the other regulators in this price range, the Cores only user control is a Venturi lever which is well positioned and easy to grip with or without gloves. 5 Wetness in head-down and odd positions The F8 1st stage has a dry-sealed spring chamber (to stop freezing at water temperatures below 40 degrees F). The ScubaPro MK25 EVO/G260 was the Testers Choice by ScubaLabs for 2015. This also protects against contamination from particulate matter in silty conditions. This valve from Mares has been designed with longevity and advanced performance in mind. Meets new EN250-2014 standards for cold-water breathing performance. This simulates the potential demand at maximum recreational depth for a diver at an extremely heavy work rate, or loosely simulates two divers buddy breathing at a somewhat aggressive rate. In partnership with the marine exploration nonprofit OceanX, University of Miami scientists using ROVs discovered the massive brine pools more than a mile deep. Return to Scuba Diving Best Regulators Reviews List. Mares DFC system assures advanced performance at any depth. 7 Bubble interference in vertical/stationary position 9 Ease of clearing regulator using the purge button The Venturi control is well marked, easy to operate and effective at blocking free-flows. The second stage is also a venerable design, being the latest version of what began as the R190 more than 20 years ago. Images that inspire are my aspiration and my passion, combined with a love of scuba diving, nature and travel provide a wide variety of opportunities for me as a photographer. The latest EVO version has a smaller body and larger piston for more-sensitive response, and it is also rated for cold water. $957.00 Buy NowReturn to Scuba Diving Best Regulators Reviews List*I try to update the prices regularly, but please check links in case prices have changed or for any special offers. Five high-flow low pressure ports on a swivel turret maximize hose routing options. The ScubaPro MK25 EVO/G260 has a rugged, matte-black-and-metal second It is the perfect go-anywhere reg for divers looking for simplicity and reliability at a price that wont bust the budget. Performance in ANSTI testing was impressive, with the Fusion 52X recording one of the lowest work-of-breathing scores for an excellent rating at recreational depth, and very good scores to our test limits. and many others. 62.5 RMV @ 198 fsw: The purge cover, which takes up the whole front of the reg, is soft and rubbery, the breathing adjustment knob is a full inch in diameter and ringed with soft rubber, and the Venturi lever is one of the easiest to reach and operate weve used (and is clearly marked). The MK25 EVO/A700 has gotten a makeover with the Black Tech finish, a lustrous coating resistant to abrasion and corrosion. The glossy purge cover and satin-finish metal surrounding it give the reg a refined appearance. Additionally, the R-700 has an external rib section that nearly doubles the surface area for thermal exchange further reducing ice formation that can lead to freeze up in extreme conditions. Despite the metalwork and large diaphragm housing, the second stage is lighter than it looks, making it surprisingly comfortable. Divers rated the reg very good for ease of breathing in a swimming position, for dry breathing in normal positions and for ease of clearing (though some divers found it a bit wetter when head-down). My goal is to provide photographs that allow the viewer to get into the image to live and experience the moment vicariously through images which highlight the beauty and fragility of our environment. A single control knob adjusts breathing effort, reducing weight and maintenance costs while preserving high performance air delivery. It provides easy breathing in swimming position, dry-air delivery in any position, ease of clearing, and effectiveness of the breathing adjustment thanks to an oversize, grippy knob. It is a superior regulator thanks to its ultra stable intermediate pressure (IP) resulting in an extremely-punctual and constantly high delivery of air. When you team SCUBAPROs flagship first stage with an air-balanced second stage engineered to excel in harsh, cold-water conditions, what you get is a regulator system that any hard-core recreational or technical diver can confidently take on any dive, anywhere in the world, and be assured of rock-solid performance and outstanding reliability. With its rugged, matte-black-and-metal second stage and performance cred, this reg gives of a just-for-techies vibe. The barrel on the balanced diaphragm first stage doesnt swivel, but the four low-pressure ports are angled at 20 and 30 degrees for additional hose-routing options. The MK2 EVO comes with the patent-pending Extended Thermal Insulating System (XTIS) that lets you enjoy an ultra-fast breathing response and maximum airflow with minimal effort regardless of how cold the water is. 75 RMV @ 132 fsw: Some divers loved the air control, which, when wide open at depth, seems to deliver air almost before you draw in your breath. Test divers found the Venturi lever well marked, effective and easy to operate, even though its small and tucked in out of the way.
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