Hi everybody. I'm new here and this is my first post. I'm having a real tough time choosing between an Atomic B1, Mares Abyss and Apeks TX100.
Here in the Boston are there are price differences as well as dealer issues. I can get the Abyss for $449, B1 for $535 and Apeks for $537. But, here are my issues/concerns.
I'm not all that impresses w/the Atomic dealers. The 2 most convenient both appear as if their businesses are doing quite poorly which makes we wonder whether they'll be there for servicing. But, I've read so much about what great regs Atomic makes. It's the one reg that I've yet to read a single criticism of. Although I have 3 concerns: 1) I love u/w photography and am concerned about bubble dispersion w/such a small second stage, and 2) I am still leary about not having my reg serviced every year, 3) the cost of parts replaced at servicing is extraordinarily high for Atomic.
I've used an Abyss and thought it performed remarkably well. But, it's weakness lies in ergonomics. The stifff hose required me to use a SeaCure mouthpiece, which is a huge piece of plastic to have in one's mouth.
As for Apeks, my concern is reports I've read of wet-breathing. Also, I'm hearing conflicting information from local dealers about whether or not the manufacturer covers the cost of parts at the annual servicing.
My diving consists of 3 annual 1 week to 1- day trips to warm water locations (Florida, Caribbean) but I think I'm finally going to try some local (New England) diving this summer.
Thanks for your help.
Benwood
Here in the Boston are there are price differences as well as dealer issues. I can get the Abyss for $449, B1 for $535 and Apeks for $537. But, here are my issues/concerns.
I'm not all that impresses w/the Atomic dealers. The 2 most convenient both appear as if their businesses are doing quite poorly which makes we wonder whether they'll be there for servicing. But, I've read so much about what great regs Atomic makes. It's the one reg that I've yet to read a single criticism of. Although I have 3 concerns: 1) I love u/w photography and am concerned about bubble dispersion w/such a small second stage, and 2) I am still leary about not having my reg serviced every year, 3) the cost of parts replaced at servicing is extraordinarily high for Atomic.
I've used an Abyss and thought it performed remarkably well. But, it's weakness lies in ergonomics. The stifff hose required me to use a SeaCure mouthpiece, which is a huge piece of plastic to have in one's mouth.
As for Apeks, my concern is reports I've read of wet-breathing. Also, I'm hearing conflicting information from local dealers about whether or not the manufacturer covers the cost of parts at the annual servicing.
My diving consists of 3 annual 1 week to 1- day trips to warm water locations (Florida, Caribbean) but I think I'm finally going to try some local (New England) diving this summer.
Thanks for your help.
Benwood