Apeks first stage questions

[Fetch]

I'm looking at getting a TX100 with ATX40 octo as my next major scuba purchase (thank you, IRS ). I've heard people mention the non-standard port on some Apeks first stages. My question is whether the TX100 standard first stage is actually the "Flathead VI" I have heard about (it certainly _looks_ like it ) and whether that has the oddball port to contend with.

Would y'all recommend that combo? I'm a beginning diver, but I don't mind spending a bit for quality gear I won't have to sell later (trying to avoid the Ebay cycle )

thanks,
Jeff

 

[Scubaroo]

Hi Fetch,

Check out the Apeks website. I'm not sure if it is the same as the Flathead first stage, but the ATX/TX100 first stage definitely does have the 1/2" port. For most applications, the DS4 first stage can't be beat - 4 x 3/8" ports, and no swivel, convertable between DIN and yoke. Someone more knowledgable in that area will advise on any differences in hose routing on doubles between the two.

The only problem with this is finding someone to sell you the DS4 with the ATX second stages - and the ATX50 is almost identical to the ATX100 second stage (don't know of any differences off the top of my head). You could always buy both and eBay the TX100 first stage! DiveInn is one of the cheapest sources for Apeks regs if you're shopping online (but beware warranty issues - which is probably a non-issue).

Ben

 

[large_diver]

I don't know anything about the flathead 6 either, but I do own a TX-100/TX-40 octo set-up.

The 1/2" port doesn't have to be a big issue. It just depends on how you plan on using it.

See the picture at the top of the web page below for a picture of the TX-100 first stage.

http://www.divesource.com/apeks/firststages.htm

Looking at the first stage picture, of the 3 ports you see, the one at the upper right is the 1/2" LP port. This is normally where your primary second stage hose originates from.

There is a lot of talk about the 1/2" port being an issue -- this comes mainly from more technical divers who want to standardize their gear as much as possible. This includes using the same size hoses -- making replacement easier in the field in the event of a hose failure. It also makes it easier if you are frequently setting up/breaking down doubles. 3/8" hoses are also more standard -- most shops have them in stock vs. having to special order them.

So, if you will be single tank diving the reg "as is" -- no problem, since it comes with a 1/2" primary hose.

You can also solve it via a port adapter -- a small screw-in adapter that allows you to use a 3/8" hose in the 1/2" port.

I actually mount my first stage upside down (I am a single tank diver) -- hose routing is slightly better for the hose confg I use (long primary hose/bungeed back-up). As a result, I use the 1/2" port for my BC inflator hose (using a plug adapter).

Probably more info than you wanted, but hope it is helpful.

 

[Lost Yooper]

I have several Apeks first stages including the TX100 and DS4. Both are solid, top notch first stages that will take you anywhere you'll ever want to go. I'm in the process of trading my TX100 for another DS4. I'm one of those who doesn't like messing with the 1/2" port.

IMO, the best bang for the buck is the TX50/DS4 with the TX40 octo. The TX50 second is virtually identical to the TX100's second. I have both and they are almost identical except for cosmetics. If you want an ATX50 second stage (which is virtually identical to the ATX200 second), then you have to order it by itself and then order a DS4 first stage by itself. I talked to Simply Scuba last month on the phone and they quoted me a price of $118 for a DIN DS4.

If you choose to go with the TX100, I would use the 1/2' port for my backup reg with the factory 1/2" hose -- no reducers. I prefer the DS4 because it's a no hassle first stage, provides awesome performance and reliability, and is much cheaper than the other Apeks first stages (and price isn't important to me ).

The only time I recommend the TX100 is for those who intend to use them on doubles and use argon all the time. They do provide better slightly better hose routing than the DS4 for doubles, but only if you're using argon (otherwise, you have to deal with that 1/2" port on the left post). I tend to use both argon and back gas for suit inflation depending on the dive, so I prefer not dealing with the issue. Also, by spring, I will have gotten rid of all my other non DS4 first stages and replaced them with DS4's for complete standardization.

Good luck to you.

Mike

Good luck.

Mike

 

[Fetch]

Thanks Mike, I think I'm going to take your advice and get the TX50/TX40octo combination, and then convert to long-hose when I get my BP rig (that is, when the IRS gives me back my money )

Jeff

 

[Lost Yooper]

You'll be happy with that combo -- I promise. If not, let me know, and I'll see if I can buy it off ya. DiveINN sells the TX50 with the DS4 too.

Mike

BTW, a 5' hose hose costs about $25 and can be used with any style BC -- very comfortable and streamlined.

 

[trymixdiver]

Just a note

DineINN shows a DIN DS4/TX50 but they cant say when the delivery is going to be. No problems getting the yoke but the DIN is apparently back ordered. Im looking to get me 4 Apeks regs as soon as they can tell me when i can get the DINs. Im not ordering 2 times, i want to wait till i can get all 4 at one time. hell it may cost less shipping to do it all at one time too.

Andy

 

[Lost Yooper]

Hey Andy,

Did you get a hold of Simply Scuba to see if they can match DiveINN's price (assuming they have DIN DS4's)? I would try that.

Mike

 

[trymixdiver]

not yet

I got alot going on this week, im moving on Saturday so my Apeks order will have to wait until Monday or Tues next week. I have too much to do this week.

Andy

 

[Fetch]

Heh, I talked to one of the employees at the LDS, and he broke out the Apeks catalog, since he wasn't busy and he didn't mind me knowing the shop's prices.

Pretty much, the LDS should be able to come withing about 30% of DiveINN, a premium I'm willing to pay to help insure that there continues to be a dive shop in College Station, TX.

Oops, time for the last half of my MFA class

Jeff