Take a look at the post right above yours for my primary reason as to keeping the second stage. I would argue that my kit is rather minimal. It's in keeping with the DIR equipment setup, my "pony" will be used as a stage/deco bottle well down the road, I'm using it as a pony to get used to handling it underwater.
Who told you that ponies are DIR? Your pizza-stained Doria tee shirt is showing.