DR V. Mares

[firemedic8082]

I am looking to upgrade my regs to eventually include use for tech diving...I currently use a Mares Rebel R2 setup and have been over all happy with Mares. I am considering the Dive Rite RG2500 and the Mares Abyss 22. I have found great prices for both and can get service done on both locally. Im just looking for opinions one which would be the better choice. Thanks in advance.

 

[Fishpie]

Of the 2 that you mention the DiveRite is better suited to Tech diving.

 

[Greg Barlow]

If you are planning on using Mares regs for technical diving, then I suggest that you consider the Proton Metal second stage. It is easily to disassemble underwater in the event that you need to clear a fouled exhaust valve. The diaphragm and retaining ring are very simple to replace, and the front cover is threaded.

I have been using two MR12 Akros regs for cave/technical diving for more than 7 years, and they are super reliable. The Akros reg is approximately the same size as the Abyss, while the Proton is bit smaller. I use Proton second stages for my single hose dives. If I were to purchase new regs for my doubles, they would be the Proton Metal versions. Of course, now that Mares is releasing second stages manufactured from carbon fiber, they would be very tempting.

Mares regs using the new tri-material HP valve are very reliable, and robust. All of my older models have been updated to the new valve assembly.

Greg Barlow
Former Science Editor for Rodale's Scuba Diving Magazine

 

[firemedic8082]

Thanks for the info.

 

[Ontwreckdiver]

You can't go wrong with a Mares Abyss or Proton Metal. They both are available with 3 or 4 different first stages.