Apeks DS4 or DST

[harleythedog]

have an opportunity to buy an apeks XTX50 with XTX40 octo and was given a choice of DS4 or DST first stage. From what I can tell, the DST is a DS4 with a swivel turret which makes for potentially better ergonomics of hose movement/routing but also has the turret o-ring which is a failure point (when compared to no o-ring). The only other diference is the DST has 2 HP ports, the DS4 has one. This would be the new DST with 4 LP 3/8" ports and 2 HP 7/16" port. The DS4 would have 4 LP 3/8" ports and 1 HP 7/16" port.

Did I miss any differences and what would be pro/cons for selecting DS4 over DST or vice versa. At this point I am leaning towards the DST as I have not been able to identify performance issues regarding the turret o-ring. Anyone have pro/cons/esperience with this ? Either setup is priced the same, all equipment would be new.

thanks

 

[bcsean]

have a few DS4's and never found the need for the turret. Hose routing was never an issue, and not quite sure what I'd do with an extra HP port.

 

[Vie]

I'd go for the DS4 for backgas (using a DST with swivel turret offers no advantage in this situation) - otoh, it depends on what kind of tanks and/or configuration you will be using. DS4 is great for single tank diving but I find the DS4 hose routing for double AL80s to be not so nice (compared to Apeks FSTs, for example). When used with double steel tanks (with taller "necks" and therefore more room for hoses) the DS4s are great.

Some people prefer the DST for deco bottles.

 

[harleythedog]

This would be for single steel tanks, LP85s. At some point double steels.

thanks

 

[m3830431]

I have the DST and it works good. The turret seems to confuse some people.

 

[wunat]

As Vie said, DS4s aren't as nice for AL80 doubles as it is with FST and/or FSR first stages. But since you will be using it for steels, I would say to go with DS4s. You won't need the swivel turret and the extra HP port (unless you would need one for AI transmitter while using a backup gauge for your singles.)

 

[cerich]

back gas the turret doesn't matter, stage/deco gas I'm for the turret always.

 

[rigdiver]

I have never seen a turret fail. Has anyone actually seen this? I'm for the turret.

 

[ianr33]

Lots of people use DS4's on Al doubles. A couple of the hoses will have sharp bends where they touch the tank but it works fine.

 

[cerich]

I have never seen a turret fail. Has anyone actually seen this? I'm for the turret.

once or twice in thousands of regs...