Apeks 2nd stage differences

[hypertech]

Is there any difference between the xtx50 and xtx200 second stages other than a little bit of chrome? Different size, anything?

It looks like I can save about $50 if I buy a xtx200 first stage and a xtx50 second stage. over an xtx200 all together.

I'm wondering if the savings is the omission of the hose which I don't care about anyway - I plan to put a miflex on it.

 

[Bubbletrubble]

The difference between XTX50 and XTX200 second stages is purely cosmetic. The difference is literally a couple of stickers.
If you aren't convinced, I encourage you to consult an exploded parts diagram of the second stages.

 

[hypertech]

I believe you. I was 95% sure that it was just the first stages but I haven't had the opportunity to put the two next to each other and compare. They are popular here, so I thought someone would know for sure.

 

[Mayor]

The difference between XTX50 and XTX200 second stages is purely cosmetic. The difference is literally a couple of stickers.
If you aren't convinced, I encourage you to consult an exploded parts diagram of the second stages.

This is also what I have found looking at the line.

 

[hypertech]

OK, last question and then I'm ordering - woohoooo!

This is a pro valve, right? So I can order a DIN regulator and use it with this tank.

 

[Bubbletrubble]

OK, last question and then I'm ordering - woohoooo!

This is a pro valve, right? So I can order a DIN regulator and use it with this tank.

Yeah, it looks like a DIN/K convertible valve to me. You should have no issues with using a DIN-configured reg with that tank valve.

That being said, if you do purchase a DIN reg, you should also purchase a spin-on DIN-to-yoke adapter ($30-$80 new). This will allow you to use your DIN reg with a yoke tank valve without using any special tools. Throw the DIN-to-yoke adapter into your dive bag and you're good to go.

I think a strong argument can be made to have DIN parts, yoke parts, and the DIN-to-yoke spin-on adapter for a reg. The spin-on adapter remains in my dive bag always (as a "just in case" part). I take a few minutes before a warm water vacation to convert the reg fully to a yoke configuration (since most rental tanks are yoke-style tank valves)...but that's just my preference.

 

[hypertech]

I haven't really learned how to do anything to my regs other than connect a hose. Learning more about how to work on them is on my to do list. I was planning to buy the adapter and just use that for vacation or rental/borrowed tanks.

 

[Bubbletrubble]

I haven't really learned how to do anything to my regs other than connect a hose. Learning more about how to work on them is on my to do list. I was planning to buy the adapter and just use that for vacation or rental/borrowed tanks.

That's a reasonable plan. Buy the reg DIN-configured and also get the spin-on DIN-to-yoke adapter.