You only need a converter if you intend to swap out the Apeks 1st to 2nd stage low pressure hose as it comes from the manufacturer. The 1/2" port is only on the 1st stage, and then only on the port that the 2nd stage is connected to.
If you don't carry around a spare Apeks regulator hose, then swapping it out for a "standard" low pressure hose is advisable, as it will allow you to "borrow" a spare hose from someone else if needed.
I have two Apeks regulators I dive with set up as redundant 1st stages on either a manifold or h valve. One set with the 2nd stage connected to a standard port on the 1st stage and the 1/2" port plugged. I carry around the hose I took off of that reg as a "spare" for my other Apeks reg set, in addition to a normal medium length low pressure hose and an 1/2" to 3/8" port adaptor, and few spare 1/2" and 3/8" plugs. This insures that if there is a need, I have two possible spares to use with either regulator set, or have one spare to loan out.
