Apeks Regs - Single Tank to DIR Doubles - What would you do?

[carlthecat]

Hello everyone. I am converting my single tank Apeks regulator setup to a DIR setup on doubles. I have a few options and I ask for a little advice since you guys have more knowledge than I do. I am not Tec certified (yet). I plan on taking the course next summer but am getting my gear ready now so I can get used to it and be ready. The details of what I have, options for new, and results can be found below.

Current Setup:

First Stage: Apeks ATX-200
Second Stage: Apeks ATX-200
Backup Second Stage: Apeks ATX-50

Options to got to Doubles DIR Setup:

1) Get an Apeks ATX-200 1st stage
2) Get an Apeks DS4 1st stage
3) Get 2 Apeks DS4 1st stages (and use the ATX-200 1st stage in a single setup or dump on Ebay)

Each option will result in:

1) Apeks ATX-200 (1st and 2nd) + Apeks ATX-200 (1st) and ATX-50 (2nd)
2) Apeks ATX-200 (1st and 2nd) + Apeks DS4 (1st) and ATX-50 (2nd)
3) Apeks DS4 (1st) and Apeks ATX-200 (2nd) + Apeks DS4 (1st) and ATX-50 (2nd)

What would you do? Also, if there is a configuration that isnt listed, please feel free to add a different configuration. Thanks to all replies in kind. Also, in this case money-wise, all 3 options are doable and none are excessively cheaper than the others.

DETAILS ADDED BELOW: I have a friend selling the ATX-200 1st stage only so I can get one without a full ATX-200 set up.

 

[cerich]

option 3 it will be a nicer hose routing plus you wont have to reconfigure your doubles regs when you dive a single, just use what you have now.

Sooner or later you'll need stage and deco regs as well.

 

[LVX]

I agree with cerich. Something else to consider. I use an H-valve on my single so I can still use my double regs and I don't have to take apart my regs each time I want to move from a single tank to a double tank. I have another reg for my single tank setup but now it is just a back up. The H-valve also offers some redundancy in case of a reg failure but not total redundancy obviously because of the burst disk and tank neck o-ring.

L

 

[cerich]

I agree with cerich. Something else to consider. I use an H-valve on my single so I can still use my double regs and I don't have to take apart my regs each time I want to move from a single tank to a double tank. I have another reg for my single tank setup but now it is just a back up. The H-valve also offers some redundancy in case of a reg failure but not total redundancy obviously because of the burst disk and tank neck o-ring.

L

and the o rings where two parts of the valve assemble, actually a "Y" valve has less failure points plus puts the regs at the same height. Kinda rare in the US however.

 

[Jasonmh]

I was in your position a few months ago, and I picked option 3, and have been happy with it.
This also left me with singles setup, since I don't always use doubles, especially when on vacation. And you can using the extra singles reg as a backup to swap parts if you have any problem with the doubles reg.
You might want to ask these guys:
www.divesports.com about the DS4s, they have good prices on them.
Good Luck

 

[rainman_02]

You can't buy just an ATX200 first or second stage...they're only sold together. The ATX200, ATX100, and ATX50 second stages are nearly identical (few minor differences like the heat exchanger).

Your best bets:

1. Purchase another ATX200. I purchased two 200's because I got them for $400 each.

2. Purchase two DS4's and an ATX50 second. You should be able to get a good deal on the ATX50 second since Apeks is moving away from the ATX. Save the ATX200 for your single tank diving.

3. Purchase two DS4's. Use your ATX200 second and your ATX50 second. But now you have an unusable ATX200 first.

 

[carlthecat]

Let me add that I have a friend selling the ATX-200 1st stage only so I can get one without a full set up. Sorry I didnt say that at the beginning.

 

[Vie]

Are you using steel or AL tanks? I find the DS4 routing a bit tight for AL doubles. With steel tanks, the first stages are higher because of the tank "necks" so there's a little bit more room. Anyway, the FSR (ATX200 first stage) routes nicer, regardless. I personally think that it really depends on the type of tanks and wing you plan to use.

 

[cornfed]

Are you using steel or AL tanks? I find the DS4 routing a bit tight for AL doubles.

I have DS4s and I just cock them to the side a little so the hoses don't bend too sharp.

 

[Hoosier]

DETAILS ADDED BELOW: I have a friend selling the ATX-200 1st stage only so I can get one without a full ATX-200 set up.

You got all solution already. Get this 1st stage from your friend and ATX50 second stage somewhere. All done... I prefer not mixing 1st stages......