A flow deviator on the second stage acts to control the Venturi effect with a dive or pre-dive setting. But, in cold climates that might not be the case. And, while it wont win any points for style, its one of the best values on the market dollar for dollar. The MK2 Evbo paired up with the R195 makes a decent budget-priced route into the brand. It also typically has two Venturi settings for pro-dive and driving conditions. Do not submerge the first stage of the regulator into the water for a long period because water could get past the dust cover. 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. When using a DIN regulator you need to also have a DIN valve on the scuba tank. 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 aqualung legend regulators are known for being good cold water regulators. 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. This regulator is preferred by wreck, cave, and cavern divers . For non-technical diving, many people use a wrist computer with the standard analog air gauge. I don't think there are any bad choices. For this test it was paired with the proven MK25 EVO flow-through piston first stage, which is fully insulated from the environment by the XTIS (Extended Thermal Insulating System) and has numerous innovative design features to aid cold-water performance. It is also now smaller and lighter for a more comfortable dive. These days, you can find her living and work on Mexicos Pacific coast. This was one of only two regs in this price bracket to feature both a venturi lever and a cracking resistance control. Scuba tanks need to be visually inspected every year and have a properly dated VIP sticker to be filled. Its second stage features the comfo-bite mouthpiece and a Venturi knob to control the airflow and breathing effort. 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. When it comes to regulators there are two main connection types a DIN or a yoke. What temperature? 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. For this price point, this is exceptional value for money. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The first stage is pretty small, which helps keep the weight down, and with its shiny chrome and polyurethane protector, it certainly looks eye-catching. But, if youre diving in cold climates, you may need more attachment points. 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). This regulators first stage is a balanced piston design. If you want to get a high-performance DIN regulator the T10 SC is a great option. There is also a knob that allows the diver to change the breathing effort. There is a location on the regulator for RFID chips to help keep an inventory of rental gear at dive shops. DIN regulators can be rated to a higher pressure value than a yoke valve which is also called an A-clamp. There are many good brands of scuba regulators such as Cressi, ScubaPro, Oceanic, Aqualung, and Atomic Aquatics. The MK21 is Scubapro's 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. Second, the regulator dangling could damage coral or damage the regulator. The second stage stands out from the crowd thanks to its chrome surround on the front, and distinctive triangular-shaped purge valve. The first and second stage weighs under 1.8 pounds which makes it the lightest regulator in the world. This regulator type is easy and affordable to service because it has few moving parts, but may require specialized tools to open. Extra ports cannot be added to your regulators first stage, so choose a model with more ports than you need. In fact, the Mk25 EVO has passed CE EN250 coldwater certification, so it has been successfully tested in fresh water of 4C at a depth of 50m, where it has been subjected to a moderately hard breathing-rate of 375 litres per minute for five minutes, during which it must not freeflow. Keep in mind that a DIN valve will fit on any SCUBA cylinder, using an adapter. The AC2 first stage is a simple, reliable, and robust unbalanced piston design. This helps us to generate future content. CRACKING RESISTANCE:Yes |VENTURI:No|VERDICT:xDeep have carved a solid reputation with their wings, and it continues here. Diaphragm first stages offer air at a lower flow rate, so they are less likely to freeflow. Average breathing effort is not published. It is available both as a yoke and DIN configuration of the first stage. Great all-round regulator. It has a hose with a large bore diameter which allows for a high airflow rate when inhaling. It is important to occasionally use and test the secondary regulator. 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. The regulator has a three year 300 dive service interval. 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. Next, the regulator should be rinsed with fresh water. The xDeep regs provided a smooth breathe, and the controls were simple to find and use. It has a balanced valve which delivers abundant airflow regardless of depth, and the pivoting purge is highly efficient. There are 2 other comparably priced regs you might look at: MK25/G250V, and the Apeks XTX100. Its pretty hard to improve on the G250 and as James points out even older stuff performs great. 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. Plenty of regulators are suitable for diving in cold climates. Regulators that feature an adjustable flow rate allow you to increase and decrease how much air you get with each breath. It can also be converted from right-hand to left-hand if you so wish. The 200LX features a braided hose, large venturi lever, chunky cracking resistance control, and has a big purge. DIN regulators also have the 0-ring that makes the regulator tank seal within the regulator. The reason the octopus is yellow is to ensure the primary regulator is being used most of the time. And, for this same reason, the DIN valve performs better in extreme cold. When it comes to SCUBA regulators, the Atomic Aquatics T3 is the top of the line. 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. An oversized cap and heat exchanging fins improve anti-freeze properties. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. 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. Most DIN regulators can hold pressures up to 4300 PSI. The first-stage regulator is the part that is screwed onto the scuba tank. 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 52X also has an NCC (Natural Convection Channel), which increases cold-water performance by creating a flow of water across the regulator. The Aqua Lung Legend is an excellent regulator, no matter what climate youre diving in. As youd expect, it has a fantastic all-round performance, and we liked the singular control knob for Atomics patented AFC, or Automatic Flow Control. Second stages today offer something the G250 doesnt have, a micro adjust that allows the service tech to fine tune it. Comparing those three second stages on the "surface" the G260 breathes the easiest, then the D420/620ti seem tied. For the average diver that dives a few times a year in warm water, this is all that should be needed. This is one piece of gear that you want to own and not rent from a scuba shop, especially when diving internationally. Partly cause i like the metal body and the perforated diaphragm cover but it def doesn't breathe as easy as the legend. This Cressie regulator has the position driven AC2 first stage and the XS2 second stage. My mentors' aqualung is almost 12 years old and still going strong. VERDICT: Excellent little regulator which could hold its own in the mid-range price bracket. Lets talk about that first stage. Because youll likely be using thick gloves, its essential to choose a regulator with a knob large enough to grasp and adjust easily. While most travel regulators use titanium and carbon fiber to cut down on weight, these are not the best materials for cold climates. You may prefer this setup, as it is more comfortable and ergonomic for routing your hoses, especially if you are diving with a dry suit. It's got all the perks you expect from a midrange regulator, but it's outfitted for the cold. It is paired with the trusty 52X balanced diaphragm first stage. 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). For the diver that wants a little more performance than the AC2, the MC9 is a great option. The G250 was one of the most copied and reliable second stages built. 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 features plenty of ports (for wireless air integration, dry suits, and accessories) and an easy to customize airflow. While it is expensive and made from a heavier material than the Atomic Aquatics T3, the SCUBAPRO M25 A700 is an excellent regulator system. Second stage regulators can also be balances to help keep the breathing force consistent as depth changes. It is very common after a few dives to have a bad o-ring that leaks on a yoke valve scuba tank. Unbalanced regulators becomes more difficult to breathe from as your tank has less air. It can be a bit overwhelming trying to figure out which brand and model regulator is the best to purchase. Our team of experienced scuba divers and volunteers have tested the latest scuba regulators from the leading manufacturers for comfort, functionality, ease of use, and price! Turreted regulators are also compatible with technical and sidemount diving. Log in or Register now! The 150LX features a braided hose and large venturi lever, and has a big purge. 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. The first and second stages can both be balanced or neither can be balanced. I prefer a sealed diaphragm or a sealed piston vs the unsealed Mk25evo. They also likely will not have this adapter. The colder the conditions, the more likely our second stage is to freeflow on the surface. 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. The second stage is very lightweight, and it has a purge that lurks behind a flexible mesh grid on the unit, which helps eliminate freeflow in currents. Its rated for extreme cold and can be used safely for demanding immersions like ice diving. This is one of the more-expensive regulators on test, but it has plenty of features of merit, and it has a fantastic performance to match its eye-catching good looks. 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. It has dry chambers that reduce the potential for ice build-up. So, to utilize this new technology, youll need a regulator with 2 high-pressure ports. Unlike most regulators, the Hollis DC7 500SE utilizes a side exhaust for exhaled gas, so your bubbles will stay well out of frame. Mares were absent from this price bracket last year, and it is good to see them back in the mix with a new regulator. Products are split into price categories and are then evaluated for performance, comfort, ease of use, build quality, looks and value for money. Welcome to ScubaBoard, the world's largest scuba diving community. Features of the first stage include a large piston, extended thermal insulation system, and a removable orifice. Finally, there is a comfortable orthodontic mouthpiece with a good grip. For technical and deep diving having an air-integrated computer is best since it can more accurately calculate the remaining bottom-time based on tank pressure and safety stops. The breath on the 200LX is smooth and dry in all orientations, and the big, chunky venturi lever and cracking resistance control are both easy to use even wearing dry gloves, as is the huge purge, which is effectively the entire front of the second stage. Joining has its benefits and enables you to participate in the discussions. The Zeo also benefits from Oceanics limited lifetime warranty and free servicing parts for life. Welcome to ScubaBoard, the world's largest scuba diving community. This third-generation model is no different. They're both outstanding regs, and they'll both give you a long useful lifespan. This gauge connects to a high-pressure port on the primary regulator. The Oceanic reg benefits from being in the Huish Outdoors family with Atomic Aquatics, and features the same soft-with-harder-insert mouthpiece. And, it can support a higher blend of oxygen than most models, so its a favorite among technical and specialty divers. It comes in both a DIN and yoke model. Home Fishing Gear Scuba and Snorkeling 17 Best Scuba Diving Regulators 2023. So, it cant hurt to be over-prepared. If you stick with diving, this regulator will make an excellent backup and is a top pick for deco tanks, too. 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. Having a compressor that fills a higher value requires a more complex system and the risks that lower pressure tanks will accidentally be filled to a higher value. The second stage is pneumatically balanced and maintains the same breathing effort even as depth and tank pressure changes. The yoke connection is often the limiting factor that determines the max pressure that can be safely used while scuba diving. As with all Oceanic products, it comes with a lifetime warranty and free parts for life, making that price even more attractive. Even if you think you will never need it it is good to have just in case. The Mares Rover 15X is an entry-level unit from this well-known Italian brand, and it doesnt break the bank. I just replaced my glacier with an LX and love it! 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. An auto closer device on the first stage keeps corrosive water from entering the regulator when it is removed from the tank. It has been improved upon by Scubapros G260 via the micro-adjust and exhalation effort. Sometimes the second stage is a lower-cost version of the primary second stage. It features a yellow cover, a long hose, and a reversible attachment. The first stage is an over-balanced diaphragm design. 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. The Elite is the latest and highest-end model of the Aqua Lung Legend series of regulators. When shopping for a cold water regulator, there is a big difference between a DIN or Yoke valve first stage. Best Scuba Regulators 2021, Reviewed & Tested, Scott Wilson: A Visionary in Cetacean Connection & Protection, Cressi Travelight BCD : The Divers Ready Review, 6 Tips To Improve Your Blackwater Photography, Apeks DSX Review: The Ultimate Dive Computer for the Future, Otter Atlantic Drysuit Review: Cold-Water Diving Suit, Garmin inReach Mini Review: Divers Satellite Communicator, Shearwater Petrel 3 Review: Dive Computer Excellence, Solomon Islands: A Scuba Divers Dream Destination, Southern Blue-Ringed Octopus: Australias Toxic Marvel, Top 3 Shipwreck Scuba Diving Sites in Tahiti, Lip shield will not be to everyones liking, but it can be easily removed, no cracking resistance control, Subtle Styling Wont Be To Everyones Liking, Good-looking Regulator With Well-designed Venturi Lever, Well-made Regulator With Neat Control System, Good-looking Regulator With Well-designed Controls, The Zeo Fdxi Is Light Enough For Travel But Great In Cold Water Too, Perhaps a Little On The Heavy Side For Travelling, Perhaps A Little On The Heavy Side For Travelling, Small Size Will Not Be To Everyones Taste, Eye-catching Regulator (Especially The First Stage), Some People Might Be Phased By The First Stage, Large, Easy To Find And Operate Venturi And Cracking Resistance Controls.