Apeks Regs

[schu1842]

I'm leaning toward purchasing an Apeks regulator in part because of the comments I've read on this board. I'm not clear however, on the differences in their model line. What features make the ATX 100 better than the ATX 50?
What makes the ATX 200 better than the ATX 100 and 50? Finally, what makes the ATX 200 Black Pearl better than the rest? Thanks for your help!

 

[LUBOLD8431]

You might try the search button in the toolbar. Apeks regs have been covered here many, many, many, many, many, many, many times.

Oh, ok, let me make it simple for you: get the ATX50 second stage with the DS4 first stage. Dont worry about the Black Pearl, its just a fancy schmancy ATX-200. The ATX-100 and 200 are the same thing except the 100 first stage is the older style which used to be called the flathead 6. Styling differences only. The ATX-50 usually comes with the DST first stage, which stands for dry sealed turret. The DS4 is a very popular first stage with tech divers, because it makes hose routing for doubles ideal. DS4 has no turret, just four LP ports and 1 HP port. Basically, there is no major difference in performance between any of these regs. It all has to do with hose placement. They all use the same service kit, and they all are environmentally sealed, and overbalanced. The DST and the 100, 200 first stages have a 1/2" port, the DS4 does not.

Can we make an Apeks sticky somewhere in the reg forum????

 

[neil]

Also, don't forget that the TX line of second stages is still available. A bit larger than the ATX with a rubber exhaust tee which, IMO, keeps the bubbles out of your face better. I use an ATX 200 first with a TX 50 second.
Neil

 

[J1M1]

i believe the atx50 does not have the heat exchanger system as the 100 and the 200 have

 

[Boogie711]

Wrong. The ATX 50, 100 and 200 second stages are for the most part, identical.

 

[J1M1]

sorry boogie

 

[Boogie711]

No worries. The ATX 40 also has a heat exchanger, but unlike the 50, 100 and 200, the regulator doesn't have adjustable breathing resistance knobs. The AT20 may be the reg you're thinking of - it's identical to the 40, but without a heat exchanger.

And incidentally, I do know this for a fact - see that reg over there? <---- That picture was taken New Years day in 33 degree water. It's an ATX50.

 

[simbrooks]

Boogie,
On that photo over there, what is that blue thing next to your head?

Very much considering the ATX200 of 50, but apart from hose routing and a little "nicer looking" (subjective), what is the real difference in performance for the extra $150-200? Going to try them out this weekend/monday.

 

[Boogie711]

Very little difference in performance. If you're budget conscious, just get the 50. The 'blue thing' is a Canadian Cancer Society pin being held with my dry-gloves.

That photo actually appeared about 9 inches wide across the front page of the local newspaper the day after New Years Day - it was a Cancer Benefit dive.

 

[simbrooks]

Budget isnt too bad, i am also getting a pretty major discount off of either, is the only difference hose routing or are there other features.

BTW that is a pretty big pin, i would hate to see the waiting staff using that at one of those restaurants that pushes their employees to where them - would almost take your head off! Glad you are being charitable though!