atomic M1 vs Aqualung legend LX

[stargost]

I know there are likely both top notch reg, but I'm still interested in opinions.
I read the Legend has excellent (best?) easy breathing especially at depth, and mouth comfort is also mentioned to be excellent (but not sure if noticeably better than a Titan).

Also regarding maintainance, it is a good point for the atomic to require it only every 2 years.

I found the Legend very bulky, but it is also little less expensive, while they are both in the same range.


Anyone has tested both ? Or has a particular negative opinion on one ?

 

[bsumner]

I am not certain, but I believe that Aqualung now recommends a two year maintenance interval for their regulators as well.

 

[walke121]

Both good regs. I consider atomic and scubapro the head of the class but thats just me. I don't mean to start another ford vs. chevy argument here. I think you get the reg that you like the best. Pretty much every reg on the market is more than adequate and safe. Try some out and get the one you think works best for you. Good diving, be safe.

 

[Pacific Taco]

I can only say great things about my Atomic!

 

[mike_s]

I am not certain, but I believe that Aqualung now recommends a two year maintenance interval for their regulators as well.

Yup. AL requires an inspection every year and rebuild every other year (based on their warranty requirements).

If it requires a rebuild the first year, then that's not covered under their "Free parts for life" program. (they only give parts for every other year).




Both req's are top notch. You won't be unhappy with either.

besides that, in most areas, I don't know many shops that carry Atomic. None do in my area. But you can typically always find an Aqualung shop in an area that has scuba shops. Not that something like that is a deal breaker.... but just FYI if you needed a dealer for something. (I carry rebuild kits/parts with me, so not having a dealer near me is not a big deal).

 

[fnfalman]

The M1 has monel (fancy nickel alloy) internal parts for corrosion resistance. The 2nd stage (and the octopus) can be equipped with cave rings so that in an emergency you can easily disassemble the 2nd stage (or octo) underwater and clean the gunk out in case of swimming through a heavily silted cave and the silt clogs your second stage. I don't do cave dives so I don't know how often these kinds of things happen, but quick disassembly is part of the design for the M1. It also comes with the environmental kit for cold water diving as well, if that's worth anything to you.

Atomic friendly shops can be hard to find outside of the US, and even in the US, but since that the OP is in Southern California, that's not even a consideration. Many SoCal shops sell & service Atomic regs, though I'd recommend to send the regs back to Atomic for servicing & maintenance.

 

[scubafanatic]

Yup. AL requires an inspection every year and rebuild every other year (based on their warranty requirements).

If it requires a rebuild the first year, then that's not covered under their "Free parts for life" program. (they only give parts for every other year).

......I think I'm seein' why I couldn't care less about a manufacturer's warranty.

...over each 2 year period, without warranty I'm payin' for (2) annual labor fees and (2) parts kits...with warranty I'm payin' for (2) annual labor fees and (1) part kit....so it's amounts to (1) trivial parts kit 'freebie' every 2 years....BIG DEAL!

 

[Captain Larry]

Nobody can tell you which reg is the best for you. The Atomic has three features that make them unique.
1. Automatic Flow Control Module: A diaphragm controlled vane in the 2nd stage that adjusts air flow to increase as you descend deeper. Impossible to outbreathe this reg.
2. Seat-saving orifice that separates the hard seat from the soft seat in the second stage and thus prevents the soft seat from getting a "set" which is why most regulators require annual servicing. This feature contributes greatly to the 2 year/300 dive service interval.
3. Titanium spring and lever in every model of their regulators. Titanium is impervious to salt water corrosion and these two critical components are titanium in even their least expensive model (Z2).

If you can find another regulator by any manufacturer that has these same features then buy it.
The M1 comes standard with an environmentally sealed 1st stage that makes it a great cold water reg. don't know about the AL.
Hope this helps you in your decision.
Larry

 

[johnjohn205]

I currently have 2 m1s and I am looking for a third for a deco reg. They are the best reg I have ever used. I have had mine in 38 degree water for well over an hour with no problems. Can not go wrong with a m1

 

[Texasdivechick]

I have AL Legend LX primary and secondary regs. I replaced my AL-LX for a Zeagle Flathead XI and now use the AL LX for an octo. I think personally the Zeagle breathes better. The AL breathes "wet," especially when upside-down and is prone to freeflow. Just my personal opinion. I LOVE my Zeagle reg. When I have the extra money I will replace the AL Legends with another Zeagle Flathead for my octo.