First: Both SP and Apeks are terrific lines. Not many have any regrets about buying any of their regulators. Relax and enjoy.
Second: The shop and the technician should probably be as much a factor in your decision as which regulator, at least if you're choosing between SP and Apeks.
Third: It doesn't always work that the most expensive model is the best. Indeed, I think many will tell you that the middle of the line will give you most (if not all) of the performance at a much lower price. I certainly think so.
Some random droolings: I prefer SP, but not so much that the price differential hasn't had me buying Apeks my last couple of times in the market. I don't think much of the SP warranty deal: expensive service to maintain a warranty that will rarely be used, lotsa paperwork, etc. The TX100 first stage has a retarded 1/2" port that was put there just to be aggravating. Steer clear of the SP Titanium firsts - they shouldn't be used with enriched air. Steer clear of the SP Aluminum firsts - the material is just too soft. Gotta love being able to tear open and clear the Apek regs underwater with no tools. My SP regs seem to breath a tiny bit better, definitely drier in strange positions. If you're traveling, you'll probably find it easier to get an SP reg serviced than Apeks in some foreign locale.
Hope this helps...
Steven
