tinman
Contributor
...intermediate pressure refers to the pressure that your tank air pressure is stepped down to by your first stage regulator, prior to it reaching your Abyss second stage regulator that you breath from. A "free flow" can refer to the failure of the first stage regulator to adjust down the tank pressure from the 2800-3100 PSI typical of an AL80 (you'll have to do your own BAR conversions) to the manufacturer's recommended pressure, generally 120 - 140 PSI.
"Expensive" is a relative term. My mother is from Paisley Scotland - everything is EXPENSIVE, even Scot Whiskey...there aught to be a law agin it... Changing intermediate pressure is a routine part of servicing a regulator - something worth having a proper reg. technician doing. Get friendly with your local instructor/dive shop - that is where long-term value can always be gained for every $ invested, less stressful bubbles are blown...
"Detuning" is a slang term for adjusting the first stage regulator pressure outside of manufacturer's recommendations to address your diving preferences or local conditions. Consult with your instructor and local dive shop technician to see if this would be recommended for you. If you plan to purchase your own equipment prior to your open water dives, make your first few dives more enjoyable by ensuring they have been serviced and aren't free flowing in the pool first (keeping in mind earlier suggestions by others ). Also spend several hours looking over discussions, past and current on Scubaboard - time well spent.
