Atomic Z2: Worth it? And, other questions...

[Stu S.]

Well divers, if you think a college student is a low-bucks person, try being a college parent. That's times two for me. I could write a handbook about safe family diving on-the-cheap. Sometimes, you get to stay in a tent! We have fun with all of it.

One of my girl kids is a student and a diver in Gainesville. Would you accept that assignment?

Gators by 6 points tomorrow.

 

[paulwlee]

There were many people here advising getting a low-end regulator.
As long as you get one from a major manufacturer, it will work great, will be reliable, and won't stop you from doing any diving that you want to do.
Will it be as comfortable as the pricier ones? No.

So, if you think you won't miss that extra bit of comfort later, then go with an affordable model. If you think you may want something better later, then get it now instead of buying twice. (Regulators last a LOOONG time.) The Z2 will be as comfortable and high performance as any high end model out there.

As for Atomics, a swivel is the same thing, it may or may not be slightly more comfortable. The good news here is that you can add it later even if you don't get it at the outset.
Warranty for Atomic is for manufacturing defects. No free service kits etc. So Leisurepro will work fine. I would recommend buying from a local shop since a relationship with one will make things easier for you in general, but if you will be moving soon, I guess it won't make a difference.
The Atomic has a metal air barrel, which isn't all that common these days, many are plastic. However the body is plastic. I think the only major modern regulator brand that has metal second stage cases is Mares. But whatever you may have heard, I find it not much of an advantage. I'd rather have a lighter second stage.

 

[John_B]

Why would Atomics not allow internet sales from dealers but then turn around and sell them from their own website?

Also its interesting that their online price is only a percent or three above what LP is selling them for...

John

 

[ocean chemist it]

Hi all.

I am going to pick this up, and probably from Leisurepro. I am moving next June. It is for sure. I will absolutely be leaving the Bay Area, 100% certain. So, this is why I don't see the need to pay extra $$ to form a relationship with a dive shop here. I will be doing my PhD elsewhere, I will form a relationship there as i'll be there for 5 years.

I'm picky. If i'm not comfortable i'll notice and i'll want another reg. I know that. I'm a gear freak. That said, yes, I am trying to save $$ where I can. But, since I know me I know it is not worth it to buy the absolute cheapest thing $$ can buy. It is best that I buy something within reach that i'll be super happy with! That way I can keep it a while.

All that said (moving, student), is there any reason NOT to buy from LEISUREPRO?

Stu S, think that's hard, try being a student with parents who can't help you with money.... You're daughter is very lucky I am going to pay for every penny of this with interest!

Thanks!
Angela

 

[Stu S.]

Thanks. We are lucky all the way around. Diving was a big confidence builder for the daughter, and it got her into a sport with a lot of adults. Better yet, the Florida lottery pays tuition and books for a real good student, which she is.

One more thing: When those kids graduate, Daddy's going to get an Atomic regulator, even if I don't need one.

happy diving.

 

[fl_coastie]

All Atomic regs are made the same and breath the same, all the way from the T2 down to the B or Z. The only difference is what they are made of. I have the ST-1 and it is awesome, I use the M1 as my Octo, love it also. You have to look at Regs as a life support system. Would you want to go cheap on something that your life depends on? Go with the Atomic you will not be disapointed.