Mares MR-12 Proton

[jeremyl]

Is this worth snagging? On sale until the end of the day.

So I am a relative noob recreational diver. I get 1 dive trip a year (give or take). Since I have 11 day Bonaire/Curacao trip booked, and renting is about 1/2 the price of this reg I figure its time to get a few pieces of my own gear. Maybe not a BC (bulky), but reg/octo/backup/computer are on the list (fins, mask, snorkel already in the closet).

So would this be a reasonable item to get? Or what else should I look at? Or should I just keep renting?

BTW: for computer I am looking at the Aries Atmos 1 Console on closeout for $150. Bad choice???

Thanks!
Jeremy

 

[rmannix]

I've had one for 4 years. Great 1st stage, mediocre 2nd stage. Light weight and small size make it a great pony/stage reg or for travel
Would be OK for the annual vacation.

 

[garyfotodiver]

I bought a Mares R2 (piston 1st stage) for my daughter. She loves it.

If I lost my Conshelfs, I would replace with a MR12 Proton.

 

[jeremyl]

Thanks. I just got off the phone with Larry at ScubaToys. They have the next level up - V16-proton XL for $210 (slightly cheaper in pkg). Says its a better reg mainly due to spherical seat so save bucks on the (now bi-annual) checkup. So in a couple years I would save all the extra cost.

Opinions?

I dont mind spending a couple bucks when its worth it. Just not diving enough to spend $400 on a reg.

 

[Divers Direct]

I Have One For Over Three Years With Know Problem, I Got It For My Wife ,and She LOVES IT. It Also Helped Her With Her Breathing And Being More Comfortable In The Water.divers Direct Has A SALE On The Mares For 164.99. Check It Out Its On Sale For A Few Days.

 

[do it easy]

The MR12 Axis was my first reg. It will do the job. I like the Mares regs for the simplicity- no knobs or dials. I don't have any experience with the V16 or the proton 2nd stage, but I don't think that Larry would steer you wrong. Go for it.

 

[Mlody11]

I've had the MR-12 proton from last year May and took it into 51 degree water at 40ft and did not have a problem. Im sure it can go lower in temp and deeper but I just havent tried it yet. Love the size of it. I once purged the octo and BC while taking deep breaths from the 2nd stage and it worked like a charm. I beleive the MR12 was rated by the navy to be able to support 2 divers working hard at depth. Im sure the
V16 can do the same..