Im really thinking Im going with that Apeks XTX100...that seems like a great deal. The one from Northeast Scuba I mean...although at this point Ive changed my mind about a dozen times with all the great input hahaha.
Now that said, any suggestions for backup reg? is finding a decent octo the best route or should I consider getting a lower priced primary regulator for this function?
And the other question regarding the 1st stage on the primary...and I may be opening a can of worms here...yoke or DIN?
forgive my "newbie-ness"
thanks!
Welcome to Scubaboard.
im a big fan of using two identical 2nd stages, my thinking being if I or anyone actually needs to use the octo/backup then chances are its an emergency of some description so want a high performing and reliable octo/back up. A lot of people buy cheap octos, many "dedicated" octos are of a lower quality and may or may not perform as required.
This is also the reason I use a bungeed backup i.e around my neck, I know where it is and it doesn't get dragged through the sand etc. when you actually need to use your octo is not the time to discover it isn't functioning properly because its full of sand or has been largely neglected from day one. Another good reason to always check functioning before every dive. I think an octo should be treated with equal respect to your primary.
It is a good idea to get the same brand as your primary as this can make servicing easier. You should be able to find a cheap last year XTX20 or XTX40 either would make a good backup, go the XTX40 if you dive cold water.
I personally use Apeks FSR 1st stage (XTX200) and two XTX50s for primary and back up.
Re DIN or yoke, in recreational diving yoke is more common in my experience, when travel diving especially so, except maybe Europe. What are the tanks that you will be using? What does your LDS rent?
sorry if my post is a little wonky or sounds preachy it's late and I'm tired. Good night.
