Hi again, MassD. I got the impression that you want to look "cool" in your outfit. Nothing wrong with that. My advice is to wear black. I remember a couple times in the past when a passenger on my boat would say something like "you can really spot the ol' pro's", or something like that. He was referring to my black gear compared to my multi colored buddy(s). It was meant as a complement.
First, there are no "tech" divers or DIR dunkers, only commercial divers and sport divers. Divers are divided by what they do, not what they wear. For example, sport divers may be subdivided into photographers, wreckers, spearos, etc. They may happen to use NITROX or wear long fins or whatever but that is irrelevant except to the diver himself.
Assuming you want to become a wrecker I suggest the following:
Mask: Apollo frameless or Cressi big eye
snorkel: old J type
Fins: Apollo split or Atomic split
Regulator: SP, Apeks, Oceanic or similar high end
Octo: in line AIRSOURCE type (Seaquest)
Weight belt: rubber belt with wire type buckle
Tanks: double 80 HP
BC: wing type with steel plate, max lift, 35#
Suit: Mares Isotherm semi dry or similar
Computer: React (in twin gauge console)
compass Swedish or Finnish made, wrist strap
Knife: 420 steel, 5", inside calf
Gloves: cotton with plastic palms
Whistle: warble type, etc
About single tank BC's: Beuchat makes jackets which have webbing harness rigging to transfer force to the tank. Same principle as wings. The Zeagle Scout is a simplified back inflate. Try on stuff, shop around.
About the belt: this should be mounted outside the crotch strap. Uses plain lead weights and should be set up more or less permanently, weighted to the specific tanks and suit that you will wear. Adjust for snug fit on surface. Hang several brass snaps on it.
The compass, not useful on wrecks? Leave it. That's why it is on a strap. When needed, you need it frequently and don't want to be waving a console around when direction finding.
Single 100's are a better choice for most dives. In this case, something like a Zeagle Scout BC or Beuchat should be looked at instead of wings. Nothing against the QD except it is double bag. Or stick with your Seaquest although you didn't say what this is. Only single bladder vests are compact and streamlined enough. Pockets are optional but increase drag. Rings? Necessary? If your BC will need trim weights, rethink it. Reduce the number of things you need to fiddle with while on the boat getting suited up although I admit, the knife and compass are in that category. The steel plate is a trim component for "wings" and doesn't need packaging or adjustment. Some compromises may be needed. What are your requirements considering the type of diving. Certain tanks, used as singles, are heavy enough to obviate the need for a heavy BC. The Faber 100 HP is an example. All this has to be thought out because once you are committed, there you are.
Try your gear on and get a critique. Look in the mirror and find points which are detrimental to drag and think of innovative ways to improve your kit. Tie off the console to the vest ring.Take the stuff out of your pockets and ask whether you need all that stuff. Stay away from unnecessary complexity. Remember, you have to assume that you are alone down there. However, it is also true that the situations you are most worried about such as "running out of air" will probably never happen in your lifetime. That is what your gauge and watch are for. Problems that come your way will probably be unexpected and unanticipated. The surface is where many of these happen. Good sense and calm reactions are important.
PS: Well, I changed my mind regarding what I can offer, partially. Sorry I can't go into the whys and wherefores but I did feel I should at least give you something to think about.
