Hi there. I'm really interested in the Instinct 52 - but I'm having some trouble finding good tech info on it.
ie. is the 2nd stage balanced? How about the Instinct 12s - are they the same 2nd stages, just the first stage is different?
Also - I plan on using my reg in temperate waters - california etc. - wondering how the performance will be in colder water?
Hi Dunx,
Thanks for your question. The Instinct 52 is a new offering and also a cool color combo (or so I think). The 2nd stages are exactly the same with the exception of color. The 52 1st stage is our highest performance offering. The biggest difference w/ the 52 is the added 2nd DFC dynamic flow control (port). In short this will provide a more constant flow of air to your octo, as well as offering an alternative port to position your primary.
The Instinct 52 will be excellent in cold water. The Mares designed regulators lends themselves to be better in cold enviornments by default anyway. If you are going to be in extreme cold, (think Antarctica), I would suggest the Abyss, because of the all metal 2nd stage. Metal is a better thermal conductor than polymer.
Technically speaking the instinct is a balanced 2nd stage, if it wasn't "balanced" it would free flow. Having said that, It is not balanced in the sense that other companies market their regulators. At the end of the day, with our patented DFC technology incorporated with patented VAD (vortex assist design), we organically or dynamically deliver air in a consistent, high volume fashion, that delivers all the air a diver needs with effortless demand. With out having to mechanically manipulate or "control" the air flow, we can keep the mechanical parts of the 2nd stage to a minimum, reducing wear and tear, performance loss, chance of failure, etc. The idea is, simply put the reg in your mouth, and breathe effortlessly in all conditions, without the need to manipulate airflow to provide the air you need. This allows you to enjoy your dive with out having to think about mechanics or adjusting as you dive.
I hope this helps.
Zak
